{Guest Post} – How to Hire a Costumed Character by GigMasters.com

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2. Get the scoop on their characters and costumes  My Dream Visits advises that the client should also ask many questions about the characters and costumes offered. They suggest that clients should ask the performer, “What characters they have, what their characters do and what type of costumes they use. Sometimes companies use Halloween costumes – which will not show a character at its best. They should be using professional costumes that were designed to hold up over time.”

Happily Ever Laughter Parties (Fremont, CA) also had some thoughts on costume specific concerns that clients should look into – “Ask questions about the company’s policy regarding costume maintenance. Ask the company if they have exact photos of the costume (and even performer, if possible), so you know who/what will be arriving!”

4. Think about your child  Make sure you consider your child’s personality when hiring a costumed character. The performer will want to know about the birthday child, and what he/she likes. Before booking you will want to discuss what you expect from the performer at the event. Bubbles Production has some great advice for parents, “If your child doesn’t do well with a lot of attention on him/her, make sure to let the performer know not to give too much attention directly to the child. You don’t want your special birthday boy/girl to feel uncomfortable.” The performer could still put on a great show, without singling out the birthday child too much. On the other hand, if you want the costumed character to show your child with attention, you should let the performer know that as well.