Become A Princess Tea Party Business€¦ · This e-book is the Nordstrom of guides to running your own princess tea party business and will no doubt streamline your efforts to open

Become A Princess Tea Party Business

Owner

How To Run Perfect Princess Tea Parties

2 Lisa Rose

www.PrincessTeaPartyBusiness.com

Become A Princess Tea

Party Business Owner

How to Run Perfect Princess Tea

Parties

A blueprint to earning an income in a part-time

weekend business

By: Lisa Rose


http://www.princessteapartybusiness.com/


Owner


3 Lisa Rose


Copyright © 2015 by PrincessTeaPartyBusiness

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in

any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical

methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief

quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by

copyright law. For permission requests, write to the publisher, addressed “Attention: Permissions

Coordinator,” at the address below.

1365 Nuuanu Avenue

Honolulu, HI 96817

www.princessteapartybusiness.com


Owner


4 Lisa Rose


Contents.

Foreword. ........................................................................................................................................ 6

1. The Princess Tea Party Niche. ..................................................................................................... 8

2. The Right Approach. .................................................................................................................... 9

3. Your Mission Statement. ........................................................................................................... 10

4. Lisa Rose Doll House and Tea Room. ........................................................................................ 12

5. Demographics and Location Pointers. ...................................................................................... 13

6. Understanding the Competition. .............................................................................................. 15

7. Choosing a Location and Outfitting a Space. ............................................................................ 16

8. Start-Up Costs: Launch for between $8,500 - $20,000............................................................. 19

9. Start-Up Requirements. ............................................................................................................ 21

10. Supplies and Vendors.............................................................................................................. 23

11. Reservations and Contracts. ................................................................................................... 28

12. Your Website is a Powerful Tool. ............................................................................................ 29

13. Promotions and Marketing Strategy....................................................................................... 31

14. Hiring When the Time is Right. ............................................................................................... 34

15. Quality Control. ....................................................................................................................... 35

16. Pricing, Competition, & Your Clientele. .................................................................................. 36

17. Party Format & Schedule. ....................................................................................................... 38

18. How To Operate Your Business…………………………………………………………………………………………..40

19. Adding Income Streams to Your Business: Your Business Tree. ............................................. 47

19. Consultation and Business Coaching. ..................................................................................... 49

Appendix. ...................................................................................................................................... 50


Owner


5 Lisa Rose


Party Request Correspondence. ................................................................................................... 51

Deposit Request Correspondence. ............................................................................................... 52

Party Reservation Confirmation Correspondence. ....................................................................... 53

Final Party Count Correspondence. .............................................................................................. 55

Customer Thank You Letter. ......................................................................................................... 56

Reservations. ................................................................................................................................. 57

Checklist for Choosing a Location. ................................................................................................ 58

Alternative Ways to Launch Your Business without Leasing Space on Your Own. ...................... 60

Notes. ............................................................................................................................................ 64


Owner


6 Lisa Rose


Foreword.

Have you dreamed of earning an income as your own boss, setting your own hours and making

your own decisions? A part-time business running perfect princess tea parties can be started

easily and affordably allowing you the flexibility you need to do something you love without

putting your family on the back burner.

That is what I discovered nearly 20 years ago when I decided that balancing a corporate job plus

managing a young family wasn’t what I wanted long-term and opened Lisa Rose Doll House &

Tea Room.

I kept my day job and used every spare moment to learn what I could about the business, search

for a location, have a fabulous time collecting dress and accessory inventory, and squirrel away

investment capital. Part of the beauty of the business I am in is that you are catering to young

children who are there to have fun and not be concerned with how fancy the space is. It can be

done simply and inexpensively which is a huge advantage in starting a business.

The flexibility I’ve had as a “mompreneur” is something I’m now sharing with other moms

with products which offer a complete business in a box and is perfect for moms who love party

planning. This e-book is the result of nearly 20 years of trial and error and is all you need to get

started and operate a part-time Princess Tea Party business.

After nearly two decades I can honestly say that Dreams Come True! Two locations, more than

5,000 happy Birthday Princesses and over $2,000,000 in revenues later, I am as passionate as

ever about the weekend business we created that has helped put three kids through college.

I am fortunate to have found what I was looking for in a part-time business and am determined

to help as many moms as I can to discover the freedom of being your own boss. My feeling is that

managing a family and a day job is more difficult than launching and operating a small weekend

business. Those management skills are huge.

After nearly 20 years in a business that allowed me to stay a full-time mom while providing

financial support for my family, I have developed the step by step tools and handbook I wish I

had when I was starting out. It’s what I call The Princess Tea Party Business in a Box which is the

exact roadmap I used so you aren’t pioneering. A mom who is even remotely thinking about

starting a business like this will definitely benefit from what follows.

http://www.princessteapartybusiness.com/


Owner


7 Lisa Rose


The Princess Tea Party business took off for me, and the specifics in this e-book can help make it

happen for you too.

The Dress-Up Princess Tea Party niche is a tested business, ideal as an income opportunity for

women in many life situations such as:

Women committed to having a balance between their family life and their work life

Women seeking to bring in a second income and phase out of a corporate 9-5

Stay at home moms who want to keep working part- time

A single mother raising children and supporting a family

Career women looking for a realistic, enjoyable, and profitable alternative to corporate

life

Women who enjoy working with children

Women who enjoy party planning

A Princess Tea Party business is a part-time weekend business. It is very attractive as a

mom/working mom solution and for other women who wish to put family first, bring in financial

support, and enjoy going to work, setting their own hours, and being home for dinner with the

kids instead of working on someone else’s schedule.

Based on nearly 20 years in the business, I have written this definitive and practical e-book to

provide everything you need to open and successfully operate your own Princess Tea Parties.

There are no guarantees, but it will save countless hours of research time and the costly mistakes

of inexperience. Now you can benefit from all of my trial and error over the years and duplicate

my business, hopefully enjoying the same joy and success I have had.

The Birthday Party industry is a $38 billion industry. While we have seen party businesses come

and go in the past 20 years, our dedication to quality, service and sound practices have sustained

us no matter the economic ups and downs.

This e-book is the Nordstrom of guides to running your own princess tea party business and will

no doubt streamline your efforts to open quickly and operate efficiently.

In running your own the Princess Tea Parties, your job is to make a little girl’s princess dream

come true. Pure and simple. There is also a little science to identifying your niche, targeting

your customers, organizing to get opened and ways to market and develop a happy clientele.

This e-book provides everything you need to accomplish this and much more.


Owner


8 Lisa Rose


1. The Princess Tea

Party Niche.

Even in a challenging economy, it is clear that parents willingly pay higher prices for party

packages where they perceive value for themselves and for their children.

Creating an all-inclusive package enables you to sell value, not price, by demonstrating to your

customers that the value of their party experience is much greater than what you charge.

The clear trend is to a turnkey party experience where we do all the work and the party package

price is clearly stated with no surprises. It has been a key to our success for 17 years now.

Our concept is simple - the all-inclusive “We do all the Work” benefits associated with our party

packages easily surpass the stress and work of a parent hosting their own party. The costs in the

end may be about the same, however, the parents understand what to expect and can trust that

everything is being taken care of.

Children look forward to being a birthday Princess or invited guest at a party hosted at Lisa Rose,

which definitely adds to the value of the experience. An invitation to a party at Lisa Rose becomes

a hot ticket among the 3 to 9 year old set! The value proposition is crystal clear to parents who

write the check.

There is no work, no stress, no worries on their end, and the kids have a wonderful time. This is

a “win- win” for everyone driving very healthy repeat and referral business.

A Dress-Up Princess Tea Party is all about pampering the birthday Princess and her guests. We

start with them picking out a dress from the racks in the main room, and then sit the girls down

to have their hair, make-up and nails done by a trained party hostess.

Once this is completed, a short runway fashion show follows which is fun and exciting. When the

show is finished, everyone sits down for “Tea” consisting of lemonade and finger foods. The

Birthday Princess will hold court, making sure that her day is indeed special.

Everyone is treated to cupcakes and the singing of Happy Birthday. Gifts are then opened with

the Party Hostess keeping track of the gifts and from whom they came so thank you notes can

be sent. A photo souvenir along with a prize from the Treasure Chest completes the party.


Owner


9 Lisa Rose


2. The Right

Approach.

In order to succeed long term and enjoy the business, you must employ a bit of the Disney and

Nordstrom approach. These two companies thrive on customer service and maintaining a happy

environment for their patrons.

Think about it, these are higher end venues on the expensive side, but there is very little price

resistance because of the perceived value of their offerings, and the understanding that the

customer will be treated to outstanding service. Simply think about the difference between

shopping at Nordstrom as opposed to Wal-Mart.

Another secret to their success is an almost fanatical attention to consistency and detail. It is part

of their corporate value system from top to bottom.

Taking this approach and applying these concepts to everything you do will result in providing

the same quality experience for every child and parent that chooses your facility for their birthday

party. It is how you develop a strong, sustained repeat and referral base of customers and a

reputation as a top-flight party atmosphere.

This will save significant marketing dollars which can now fall to the bottom line as profit.

Keeping it all about the birthday girl, her guests and no one else is the way to go. Remember,

every guest at every party is a potential new booking.

After all of the preparation that goes into creating the atmosphere and business operational

support, this comes down to being a happy business and above all about having the right attitude

and dedication to bringing a smile to a little girl’s face at the birthday party she will always

remember.


Owner


10 Lisa Rose


3. Your Mission

Statement.

Our Mission Statement at Lisa Rose is “To Make

Dreams Come True.” At The Walt Disney Company for

example, it is “To Make People Happy.” At Nordstrom

it is “To provide outstanding service every day, one

customer at a time.” These are huge retailers and yet

they built businesses around these simple ideas.

Your product offerings are birthday party packages,

which are extremely important to some parents, but

simply a convenience to others. Regardless, they must

be treated to the same superior service and consistent

quality.

Keep in mind, it is the parents who talk to and refer

their friends. You are pursuing a business free from

corporate pressures, tiresome hours and

competitiveness, so do it right!

A smile on your face, and especially your employee’s

faces will convey that you are truly having fun and enjoy what you are doing and likewise will

have the same effect on your customers.

This is paramount and feeds right back to your mission statement. Choose one that fits your

particular idea of how you want to operate, but it should not stray far from what has made

Disney, or for that matter Lisa Rose, successful.

Anyone might be able to host a dress-up tea party, but can you separate yourself from the others

and establish a brand with staying power? The ones that come and go typically cut corners and

are absent the professional touch. They often operate out of their home or attempt some

variation on the Princess theme such as Spa Parties or Bratz events, which have a tendency to

miss the mark and fall short of the child’s or parents’ expectations.

You have an hour and a half or two hours, depending, to focus on that little girl becoming a

princess. You want a full and complete experience for her living the dream in the moment. If you

do that you will build one success after the other.


Owner


11 Lisa Rose


By offering a stress free value package, employing relentless attention to detail and consistency,

and delivering service, you will enjoy advantages that competitors will find very difficult to match.

There will be competition. You cannot expect to enjoy a market entirely to yourself at all times,

but competition keeps you sharp and as long as you meet it with your well defined party packages

and stay true to your mission, you will own your niche.

Branding is important. Therefore, tell the market who you are by establishing a clear image your

business is to portray. Have it reflect the market base of customers you are planning to attract.

Many other party businesses struggle and fall short, due to a poor location choice, slack quality,

a low budget image, or lackluster customer service and follow up. Avoid these mistakes and you

have an excellent opportunity to succeed according to the specific goals you set.

As long as there are little girls, there will always be princesses! Take advantage of this natural

market by doing it right.


Owner


12 Lisa Rose


4. Lisa Rose Doll

House and Tea Room.

We started in business at our current location in

Honolulu nearly 20 years ago. We’ve built a good

reputation and established a place in the

community with a solid product, effective

advertising and promotion.

Along with the overall experience we provide, it

is our repeat customer base plus word of mouth

referrals that really separates us from the

competition.

It took a while to accomplish this but now we

enjoy a niche that is distinguished from being just

another party storefront.

A great testament to our business is when

teenage girls at a younger sibling’s party

reminisce with me about when they had their birthday party at Lisa Rose. We are now serving

second generation princesses which may date me a little but is a joy nonetheless.

Experiences like that are what this is about and also a clear indicator that your approach and

follow through are working.

Steve Jobs aptly stated, “Be a yardstick of quality. Some people aren’t used to an environment

where excellence is expected.” Be that yardstick when building your company, because

demonstrating high quality is a measurement of your success.


Owner


13 Lisa Rose


5. Demographics and

Location Pointers.

A community consisting of at least 50,000 in population would meet minimum requirements. A

location within a reasonable distance (20 to 30 miles) to a population center of at least 250,000

to 500,000 people is most desirable.

The larger the population base the greater the potential for higher party volume. If you are

content to build a smaller business simply to provide a modest second income, then getting

established in a smaller market is an enjoyable and profitable endeavor.

Party volume is a key component of this business however, obviously to generate higher monthly

and annual revenues but also to spread fixed costs like rent and utilities over a greater number

of parties, resulting in increased profitability.

In any event, to analyze feasibility and profitability, you must calculate anticipated fixed monthly

overhead costs such as rent, utilities, food, party supplies, advertising and part time help, plus

initial investment recovery, against your pricing strategy and monthly party volume assumptions.

A reasonable profit expectation from this type of business is in the range of 50% of total revenue.

This can be accomplished keeping overhead costs under strict control and the business is

operated efficiently, meaning you are a hands-on proprietor.

A quick hypothetical analysis of a stabilized party business at 25 parties per month might look

like this:

25 parties/month x $350 average revenue per party =

$8,750 gross revenue/month x 50% profit margin =

$4,375 net pre- tax profit/month

OUTSTANDING FOR A WEEKEND BUSINESS!


Owner


14 Lisa Rose


Demographics should consist of a growing population mix, with a definite trend toward younger

families and young children. Suburban locations are fine since rents tend to be less expensive,

provided they are easy to locate and access. Parents will travel a good distance of up to around

30 miles as long as there are freeway or interstate routes allowing convenient access to the

location.

http://library.demographicsnow.com/?skey=46BC4FB4D9684105B661AA16D3665A28

http://library.demographicsnow.com/?skey=46BC4FB4D9684105B661AA16D3665A28


Owner


15 Lisa Rose


6. Understanding the

Competition.

It is important to survey competing party businesses that cater to children in your market.

Research can be done both online and in person. Ask yourself

Where are they located?

What niche are they targeting?

What party packages do they offer?

What price range does the market support?

Once you understand the level and quality of competition in your market and the cost of doing

business there, you can settle on a strategy to create your own niche by separating yourself from

the others and establishing a brand with staying power.

Research indicates that a healthy percentage of parents and grandparents will spend about $350

or more on a child’s birthday party. This is about the average for a Princess Tea Party consisting

of 8 guests including the birthday girl.

Larger parties of up to 14 guests are very common, and carry a $25 add-on charge for each

additional guest above the base package of 8. The math here really works out ($25x6=$150) since

the incremental cost of each additional guest is very minimal.


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16 Lisa Rose


7. Choosing a

Location and

Outfitting a Space.

There is a lot of flexibility in choosing a location; however, the retail birthday party business

typically locates in the following types of spaces:

Mid - tier retail space in a strip mall. The second floor is fine. Can be urban or suburban

Free- standing commercial or residential structure

Live-Work space in an urban area with retail access on the ground floor and living quarters

including kitchen facilities above.

One of my locations was in exactly that type of centrally located live-work space, which can be

very efficient and economical.

The original Lisa Rose is on the second floor of an older but very conveniently located strip mall

in Honolulu. Neither location is Class A space, but they meet both physical and locational

requirements since customers will come to you. Once again, maintaining control of costs is

absolutely key.

Therefore, the size of the space should stay within a range of approximately 600 to no more than

1500 square feet. Three (3) to six (6) parties per day can be accommodated in spaces of this size

to include a small waiting area for adults who choose to stay at the location while the party is in

progress.

In any event, before deciding on a specific location, you must understand the allowable uses

under the current zoning, what is involved in obtaining a business license, and Health Department

rules relative to preparing and serving food.

Since some modest food preparation is involved in a party package, it is critical to know what you

plan to offer and to be sure that it will pass the Health Department before committing to a space.

A review of Health department regulations in your jurisdiction will be very helpful.


Owner


17 Lisa Rose


Other key components pertaining to the selection of your location are:

Parking availability

Restroom access

Visibility from passing traffic

Onsite kitchen facilities

Parking

As for parking, keep in mind that this is primarily a weekend business with parties occurring

throughout the day on Saturdays and Sundays. In this regard, parking space may be simplified

depending on the actual location i.e., a retail outlet primarily in use on weekdays as opposed to

a free-standing building or a live-work space in a downtown area. In any event, be sure that there

is ample parking for at least six to ten cars to accommodate parents who stay for the party as

well as drop-offs and pick-ups.

Restrooms

Your space should have at least one restroom facility, preferably situated within the space itself

as opposed to “down the hall or corridor.”

It is not necessary to have more than one and it can be unisex. If you like a space but the restroom

is not contained within, you can make it work, however you and your hostesses must be

disciplined in making sure that a child is accompanied to the restroom and returned, at all times

without fail.

Kitchen

A full kitchen facility is not necessary, but what you will need is a dedicated area with a sink (check

health requirements), a refrigerator, and possibly a small toaster oven, along with sufficient

counter space to cut and prepare finger foods.


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18 Lisa Rose


In evaluating the suitability of a space overall, the kitchen facility need not be elaborate, simply

adequate to store supplies, make modest food preparation and to keep food and drinks cold and

fresh.

Dining area

In addition to kitchen facilities, the overall space should feature a main dining area sufficient in

size to accommodate a dining table and chairs for your maximum number of guests. Tables with

several leaves work well to accommodate varying sized parties.

A space with several rooms works best because you will need to separate the changing and vanity

area from the dining space. If your space is one large area, pony walls, curtains and room dividers

can all be utilized. It can also incorporate a fashion runway consisting of a long narrow carpet, as

well as a small photo shoot area.

Display & Changing Area

A separate area should be dedicated to display dresses and other costumes, with an adjoining

private changing room close by.

A spot for small tables with mirrors to style hair, makeup and nails can also be situated within

this part of the overall floor plan layout. Remember, this is a unique business and your location

should reflect the image you are portraying.

Vintage

Shabby Chic

Victorian

Modern, etc.

Just about any space can be turned into a magical space for kids to

enjoy their special day. With lots of creativity and hard work, your

dreams can come true.


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19 Lisa Rose


8. Start-Up Costs:

Launch for between

$8,500 - $20,000.

Undertaking an entrepreneurial venture, such as starting your own Princess Party business,

involves many obvious but also some hidden

costs.

Filling out the attached budget worksheet of

common business start-up costs will help

you estimate what your costs will be.

This list is not exhaustive. Remember to

factor other costs that apply to your

particular concept, the image you plan to

project, the community, location, general

target audience, and local fees and taxes.

It is intended as a tool to start you thinking

in the right direction.

Think in terms of bargain hunting at thrift

stores and other like venues when it comes

to acquiring dresses, costumes and

accessory inventories.

By shopping at second hand stores, estate

sales, thrift stores and the like, you will find wonderful furniture pieces, fixtures, costume

inventory, and accessories to decorate your location. Using handymen capable of performing

light carpentry work is perfect for any general interior modifications you choose to undertake.

Use your creativity and resources when planning your space. You will want a unique situation

rather than a canned or franchised unit. Therefore, begin by pre-imagining your image and

style.


Owner


20 Lisa Rose


This Chart is a Guide to Get You Started

START-UP COSTS

Category Description Amount

Rent At least four months’ rent reserve

reserve

$3200 - $4000

Improvements/Build Out Paint, flooring, interior decoration,

furniture, fixtures, equipment

$1000 - $5000

Salaries/Wages Estimate should be very low for the

first six months to a year of

operation

Payroll Expenses Payroll Tax, etc. $1000 - $2000

Equipment Printer, digital camera, telephone,

credit card machine & sound

system.

$300 - $800

Furniture Vanities, dress racks, mirrors,

pictures, wall hangings, window

coverings

$500 - $2000

Marketing Materials Business cards, brochures, website,

e-mail marketing source(constant

contact)

c

Contact, etc.), printing, etc.

$200 - $400

Inventory Dresses, other costumes,

accessories

$500 - $1500

Advertising Print, social media $300 - $500

Utilities Gas, Electricity, water $500

Licenses/Permits Business License, Health Dept. $200 - $300

Insurance General Liability $300 - $500

Accountant’s Fees Set Up For Quarterly Tax $200 - $500

Attorney’s Fees Incorporation Documents/ Filing $500 - $1000

Contingency Unforeseen or unanticipated

expenses

Expenses

$1000


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21 Lisa Rose


9. Start-Up

Requirements.

Legal Entity

When beginning a business, you must decide what form of business entity to establish. Your form

of business determines which income tax return form you have to file.

The most common forms of business are the sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, and

S corporation. There is also the Limited Liability Company, (LLC) which is a slightly newer business

structure. Legal and tax considerations enter into selecting a business structure.

In the US, you will find more information on business structure by referring to Small Business

Administration’s Choose Your Business Structure webpage.

Use your creativity and resources when planning space. You will want a unique setting rather

than a canned or franchised unit. Therefore, begin by pre-imagining your image and style and

budget accordingly.

Sole Proprietorships

Partnerships

Corporations

S Corporations

Limited Liability Company (LLC)


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22 Lisa Rose


Business License, Tax Id, Etc.

A starting point is to visit government business websites such as (www.sba.gov in the US) for

valuable information on starting a business, and to begin your due diligence.

There are many websites to research, and the more prepared you are beforehand the better.

Local city, town, or village government websites to determine licensing fees, health department

requirements, and local ordinances governing your business type are recommended.

http://www.sba.gov/licenses-and-permits

https://ablis.business.gov.au/

www.business.govt.nz/starting...business/starting-a-busin.

Sbinfocanada.about.com

business.gov.in/startingbusiness/index.php

www.smallbusiness.co.uk

www.startups.ie

http://www.sba.gov/licenses-and-permits

https://ablis.business.gov.au/

http://www.business.govt.nz/starting...business/starting-a-busin

http://sbinfocanada.about.com/

http://business.gov.in/starting_business/index.php

http://www.smallbusiness.co.uk/

http://www.startups.ie/


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23 Lisa Rose


10. Supplies and

Vendors.

Once you have determined your image, secured your space and completed all the legalities, you

can begin to collect your inventory.

Costumes

You may discover several quality and consistent vendors with which we also have had success

with. You will want to establish an account to receive wholesale pricing, and most will require

your Tax ID.

Puppet Workshop – very high end costumes, which should be included in the mix:

puppetworkshop.com

Little Adventures – comfortable, easy care costumes https://www.littleadventures.com/

Rubies – your basic Halloween supplier, but many good choices: rubies.com

Of course there are more, but these three will help get your inventory started. You will also want

to visit the thrift shops, consignment stores, etc. for the party dresses that the older girls prefer.

The bulk will be the princess dresses, but keep in mind many girls 7 years and above will want to

have a more “mature” party. Look for small-sized prom or cocktail wear and girl-sized formal

wear.

Make sure these dresses are age appropriate, and not too skimpy, revealing, or lacking in style.

You want to stay away from the overdone pageant look or the Bratz style clothing.

SHOES - a mix of princess styled sandals, slippers and heeled shoes for the younger girls, along

with thrift store finds for the older girls should be incorporated into your inventory.

ACCESSORIES – Again, a mix of store bought merchandise and second hand works well. You will

need to have ample supply, as girls are very rough with everything.

MAKEUP - Keep the makeup simple. Eye shadow, blush, lip gloss and perhaps some sparkly face

glitter are the basics. Apply some to their eyebrows and it creates a well-received look. Keep

everything sanitary by utilizing Q-tips and cotton balls.

https://www.littleadventures.com/

http://rubies.com/


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24 Lisa Rose


Provide many colors of nail polish for the girls to choose from. You will stock modest supplies of

polish remover, quick dry and cotton balls.

Hair Goods

Supplies regularly used are brushes, combs, hairpins, bobby pins, hair gel, and rubber bands.

Keep Barbicide on hand to disinfectant hair utensils between every use. You will also want hair

accessories for each girl and a tiara.

I have found that a clip on rose flower and a tiara works well. Visit your local professional salon

store to check pricing and availability.

You will want to develop several hairstyles for different types of hair and lengths. There are 3 or

4 styles that I use frequently and it simplifies the process.

Remember you need to stick to a schedule, especially once you are established and are running

anywhere from 2-6 parties per day.

Kitchen Goods

Start scouring the thrift shops, swap meets, etc. for dish wear, teapots, teacups and serving

pieces for the tea party.

The most difficult items to acquire will be smaller sized individual tea pots and demitasse cups

and saucers. Restaurant supply warehouses in your area are good resources, along with designer

brands for fewer retailers such as Ross, TJ Maxx and Marshalls, in the US.

I have also found items on EBay, but am prepared to go through the bidding process. Remember

the tea party is the highlight of the event and needs to be treated as such.


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25 Lisa Rose


Typical Menu

Our menu at Lisa Rose consists of:

Lemonade

Appetizers

Carrot sticks and ranch dressing

Grapes

Cubed cheese

Goldfish crackers

Finger Sandwiches

Turkey

Tuna

Peanut Butter & Jelly (keep in mind food allergies may be a factor)

Dessert

Cupcakes

Red Licorice

Gummies

Animal Cookies

Keep it a kid friendly meal with items you can purchase at your local Costco or other bulk

warehouse retailer. You will want to tailor the menu for your particular area and consider an

alternative to peanut butter since it seems more children these days are allergic to nuts.

A beautiful, but washable table cloth and placemats are essential to create the right image, along

with table decorations.


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26 Lisa Rose


Photo Souvenir

Another highlight to our parties is the take home photo souvenir of each girl. This aspect of the

party requires time, expense and can be a challenge with the younger girls. It is also something

that distinguishes us as unique and high end.

Prepare a small location for your photo session. At Lisa Rose, a pretty chair and dried floral

arrangements is a bright and colorful look. You will need the following to create your photo

souvenir:

Photo printer that prints from a memory card or smartphone (WiFi capabilities).

Camera (need not be costly, as high resolutions are not required) or use a Smartphone.

Photo paper

Photo ink (largest expense)

Printed photo frame to mount your picture

Remember: Keep it simple and easy for you and your staff to handle during a busy party.

Treasure Chest

Look for quality inexpensive items for the girls to choose from at the end of the party along with

their photo souvenir. Have three or four items, and attempt to keep them at about 50 cents each.

It sounds low, but they are available. Some resources are:

Halo Heaven https://www.haloheaven.com/

Party City www.partycity.com/FreeShipping

Local Dollar Stores

You may also want to include a “deluxe package” or add-ons to increase revenue.


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27 Lisa Rose


Adults Present

Keep in mind that the younger the children, the more their parents are present during the parties.

Do your best to keep the number of parents to a minimum.

The party is for the girls and having too many parents can compromise the festivities. Make sure

your reservation form and policies state (as pleasantly as possible) your guidelines regarding

parents, younger siblings, and other adults.


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28 Lisa Rose


11. Reservations and

Contracts.

Utilizing your website to handle reservations is the most efficient and easiest way to handle

bookings. Most savvy parents are busy professionals who manage most of their business from

smartphones and computers.

Most website providers offer both a comment and response feature plus a shopping cart option.

Once you receive a request for party availability, a standard response can be easily sent with

available dates and a deposit request. Most parents are more than happy to pay their deposit

online from a safe, secure and simple website.

After your deposit is received, a confirmation e-mail can be sent with party date instructions. I

have found that most parents do have more questions and an e-mail usually works best, although

a few will want to speak to you personally or stop in for a visit.

If your website is detailed and captures the essentials of your business, you and your customers

will find it efficient.

See Appendix

Reservation Sheet

Used In-House to keep track of contact information, deposits and invoicing.

Party Request Email

Used to offer available party dates and times and to schedule event date.

Party Deposit Email

Written request for party deposit either by email or by phone

Confirmation Email

Confirms receipt of deposit, party date and time, refund, rescheduling, and general party policy.

Final Party Guest Count

Total Number of Guests, Add On Requests, Food Choices, Last Minute Questions


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29 Lisa Rose


12. Your Website is a

Powerful Tool.

You can easily and cost effectively create and maintain your own website. The best way is to use

our done for you website template which as part of the Business in a Box package. It is adaptable

to your business, and will have you operating with a web presence almost immediately.

We strongly recommend this as it gives you constant control over what is seen on the web. You

will be adding changes, events, schedules, etc. and want to be able to do them instantly.

To further assist you we may offer web development services at very reasonable prices to make

sure you have a professional appearance and smooth operation.

If you choose another method of establishing a web presence, before setting it up be sure to

research and reserve an easy to remember website name (URL) for your business. Go Daddy is a

good source to research and purchase domains. Remember, the simpler the better.

Your business is very visual and your website should make a good impression right off the bat.

Signal to your audience your mission statement and the reasons why they should consider you -

quality, convenience, hassle free, value. It’s also OK to simply be a fun place when a daughter

wants a tea party.

It is important to list your services, pricing and location. I have researched other company

websites and have been surprised that I could not easily find out where they were located. Also,

it is important to make it easy for someone to contact you directly.

Today’s consumers will conduct their business online, especially if your website has a

professional look. It is important to update your website regularly to keep it fresh and

appearing at the top of web searches. Also, be sure to list your website with all the top search

directories.

Google

Bing

Yahoo

Yellow Pages

Merchant Circle

Yelp


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30 Lisa Rose


You will also want to research children’s and party directories. Most offer free listings, along

with purchased listings.

Children’s Directories

Party Directories

Remember to keep it local, those are your customers.


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31 Lisa Rose


13. Promotions and

Marketing Strategy.

Advertise

Print advertising can be very expensive, so research the different publications in your area. Once

you open your doors the solicitors will come to you. Evaluate them all and call existing advertisers

to get their feedback. Some print should be added into your advertising mix, but be cautious

about signing long term agreements.

For Lisa Rose, testing with different advertisers worked well before signing a long term contract.

Social Media Advertising

Social Media Advertising such as Groupon, Living Social and other online discount offers has

become a popular avenue for advertising.

Basically, you offer specific goods or services at 50% off or more, in exchange for internet

advertising. These avenues can be highly successful to your business, with no out of pocket

expense. Think carefully about your offer and make sure you can meet the demand.

They can be successful, not only to your bottom line but also to gain exposure in the marketplace.

Remember to consider parties you are able to host yourself to keep expenses down.

If you are not familiar with social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter, etc., start researching

and learning.

These forms of promotion are free and can be valuable marketing tools, especially during start-

up, to drive bookings and gain early exposure.


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32 Lisa Rose


Promote

This is the most valuable and cost effective method of generating business. It takes hard work,

creativity, and persistence

One of the most important methods is to start a data base of potential customers, customers and

media contacts right away. There are many database/e-mail providers that will streamline your

efforts for a minimal cost.

These services enable you to store, update and categorize your list. Most importantly, they create

an easy way for you to send out professional looking promotions and specials to your customers.

For example, Constant Contact works well for me, but there are many other services you can

utilize.

There are many ways to grow your database:

Add a link to your website

Hold drawings

Have a sign prominently displayed at your place of business

Participate in outside event

Other Promotional Activities

Events & Fairs

These can be a good avenue to get your business out into the community and talk to potential

customers. You will also want to establish relationships with other children’s businesses in the

area, and work together to generate more interest and share costs.

I have learned that a drawing will generate interest, while also increasing your database. Make

sure your booth or table represents your business and draws attention. I have found that drawing

the kids in through simple crafts, stickers, face painting, etc., enable you to talk to parents and

get them to enter your drawing.

You may also want to sell inexpensive Princess items to recoup the cost of your booth and any

manpower hours.


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33 Lisa Rose


Silent Auction Donations

Many schools will begin soliciting for donations, and this is an excellent way to gain exposure in

the schools. Many times they allow you to display literature and business cards, and also publish

you in their programs.

Newspapers & Magazines

Your local newspapers and magazines are always looking for content for their publications. It is

important to establish a mailing list for these contacts and regularly send them written

information regarding your business. Be sure to add some human interest to your press release

to catch their attention.

Be consistent and establish regular exposure through all aspects of

your promotional activity.


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34 Lisa Rose


14. Hiring When the

Time is Right.

As a start-up operation, you should plan to do most, if not all, the work yourself. This involves

marketing and promotion; advertising; website maintenance; scheduling and reservations;

training; being the party hostess and most importantly, welcoming and servicing customers.

The tools in the Business in a Box streamline and make it much easier for you to manage the day

to day tasks so you can concentrate on growing your business. Your objective is to develop a

consistent pattern of party bookings and a dependable monthly volume.

It can be seasonal as the summer months are slower when kids are out of school or away. Since

quality service and consistent attention to detail are the essentials in this niche, you will

determine when additional help is needed in order to maintain quality.

You will only need one part time employee to assist you with parties at the start. You should be

able to host from 4 to 6 guests yourself, but will need additional help for larger parties in order

to stick to schedule.

Start with a family member, high school or college student. It is important to be the face of your

business to welcome guests, and provide exceptional service.

Hiring party hostesses on a part time basis who are high school or college students is common

and the preferred way to go. They must present themselves well, be enthusiastic around young

girls, be able to handle hair, make up and nail makeovers, some light food preparation,

communicate well with parents and take responsibility.

The point is, you must find help that is reliable, outgoing, and

responsible, with a sense of urgency.

Believe me, it can be done!


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35 Lisa Rose


15. Quality Control.

The only way to establish and maintain a high standard of quality control is through hands-on

active involvement. In my case, I am the “Lisa” in Lisa Rose. To this day, after 17 years, I answer

the phone and develop and maintain a rapport with my clients.

In many ways I am a mom speaking to a mom or a dad. You don’t need to be a mom, but you get

the picture. The parent’s concern is that their daughter is treated to a wonderful, special day.

Through this process you get to know your clients who are often repeat customers and a solid

referral service for you. It is a personal touch for which there is no substitute.

Since a Princess birthday party is a once in a year event, you must get it right every time. Your

system of booking the date, taking deposits, getting a correct attendee count, determining add-

ons and food choices (and prohibited foods such as peanut butter), invitations and thank you

cards must be an organized and precise effort.

The party rooms and bathroom facilities, napkins, dishes etc., must be clean and reset for each

party. In addition to the party itself, this is how the overall experience is evaluated and reported

by word of mouth and social media these days.

If you have additional help, they must be reliable, show up for work on time and be familiar with

the party roster for the day as well as any special requests or requirements.

Parties can go according to formula which is always to include what is described to the parent or

on the website. A final check on quality control is a phone call to a parent of a recent party to

inquire about their experience and to thank them for choosing your facility for their child’s party.

This is a repetitive but entirely necessary process by which you will build a loyal clientele,

favorable publicity, and, a strong referral mechanism.


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36 Lisa Rose


16. Pricing,

Competition, & Your

Clientele.

A $300 - $350 base price for a Princess Party is realistic. Having said that, pricing your services

will depend on the demographics of the area you are in, and the direct competition you face.

The image you plan to project, and monthly party volume you are targeting should also factor

into your pricing strategy. It is very important to survey the competition prior to making any

commitments or obligations to a space or inventory because you must know what the market

will bear in terms of revenue and projected monthly party volume as well as your anticipated

overhead costs, with lease rent being the highest recurring cost factor, in order to understand

the profit potential at any particular location.

Depending on the size of your town or metro area, you will most likely compete against another

retail party venue similar in service, and also, but to a lesser extent, “backyard bouncers” and the

like.

In order to estimate potential market share for your business, it is important to do thorough due

diligence on the size of your market, the number of competitors already operating in the area,

and assumptions about new competitors entering your market after you get established.

Once you understand the size of your market, level and quality of competition and the cost of

doing business there, you can settle on a pricing and monthly volume strategy to carve your own

niche.

Establishing yourself as the cream of the crop in terms of the quality of experience, while at the

same time offering a little more for less is a good initial offering to demonstrate value in the

market.

You can ease prices higher later on, however, it is most important that you do not enter the

market at too high a price for your basic package, and then have to reduce your prices!

Study the market carefully, find your slot even if it is at the top of the market, and position

yourself with room to modestly increase your prices slowly over time.


Owner


37 Lisa Rose


Until about the age of 7 the girls love to be called Princesses. Beyond that age, the older girls may

not. For this reason I advertise Glamour Girl as well as Princess Parties.

While they are essentially the same, the Glamour Girls are called “Miss” and can choose more

sophisticated styles of dresses to wear.

I pride myself on attention to detail and offering the most complete package in town combined

with a consistently high level of service. By doing so, it earned me Honolulu Magazine’s “Best of

the Best” status in their birthday party category. You cannot buy better advertising than that.

It may seem that the $350 base price for a two-hour party is high, but in this niche it meets with

little price resistance provided you make sure your customers are perceiving greater value than

what it is costing them.

They could easily end up paying that much for a backyard party, a public pizza/party venue, a

skating rink or a variety of other places where the venue does little more than set up a drab party

room and leaves the rest up to the parent. Work and stress aside, these are not memorable

experiences for the kids and most are forgotten the next day.

It goes without saying that a Lisa Rose experience is far superior, much more memorable, and

therefore commands the price. Our customers are willing to pay the $350 for a base party

package because of the value and convenience we offer, attention their child receives and the

upscale image we project.

The Celebration Industry average parental expense for a birthday party in 2013 was about $350.

We offer a complete package that does not involve fast food, plastic or paper goods, while

many of our competitors still do. This does nothing but enhance the perceived value of our

parties at little sacrifice to the bottom line.


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38 Lisa Rose


17. Party Format &

Schedule.

We have determined that by offering two party sizes it allows us to capture our market more

completely. Our smaller Rosebud Package of 4 to 6 girls lasts 90 minutes. It is attractive to the

younger girls who may have fewer friends and shorter attention spans than older girls.

Also, parents on a limited budget are attracted because they want their child to experience a Lisa

Rose Party. These smaller parties can be done solely by you to keep overhead down.

The Rose Package of 8 to 15 girls lasts 2 hours, and many times the largest parties last longer,

depending on the number of employees.

Typical activities for both a Princess or Glamour Girl party includes:

Dressing girls, make-up, hair

Photo session

Fashion Show

Tea Party

Birthday Cupcakes

Opening Presents (time permitting)

Undressing

Treasure Chest

Determine your party sizes and length, and set pre- determined party times that maximize the

limited weekend hours. With a smaller location, you can allow 30 minutes between parties to

clean and prepare.

A larger facility with separate rooms should accommodate more parties per day by overlapping

times.

Keep in mind separate rooms when planning your location, if you plan on overlapping times and

maximizing your space.


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39 Lisa Rose


The facility should also have a separate entrance and exit so parties are not intermingled and can

be kept private.

Music

Music is an important aspect of the party. Have a simple sound system and play either CD’s or a

playlist from your

iPod. Disney, Nickelodeon and bubble gum music work best for the younger set. The older girls

prefer a “cooler” play list but are sure it is appropriate for girls and parents of all types.

Parents

You may want to create a small sitting area for parents where they can relax and socialize among

themselves. This discourages the “helicopter parent” from hovering around the dining table,

watching their child’s every move. The girls are much more relaxed and social when adults are at

a distance and not focusing on them.

9:00 AM to 11:00 AM

11:30 AM to 1:30 PM

2:00 PM to 4:00 PM

4:30 PM to 6:30PM

OR

9:00 AM To 11:00 AM

11:30 AM to 12:30 PM

12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

1:30 PM to 3:30 PM

4:30 PM to 6:30 PM


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40 Lisa Rose


As an added touch to a Lisa Rose Party, we offer complementary iced tea and snacks for the

adults present. Something as simple as crackers, pretzels, chips, etc. is adequate.

18. How to Operate

Your Business

Princess Tea Party business operating procedures are simple and fall mainly into these categories.

1. Managing Employees

2. Handling Finances

3. Marketing the Business

4. Fulfilling Reservations

5. Customer Service

6. Inventory and Facility Maintenance

7. Party Preparations

8. Performing the Parties

As you develop a book of business, these activities are handled mostly on a daily basis throughout

the course of a week.

Some marketing and advertising will not need a day to day focus, instead requiring attention on

a biweekly or even monthly basis.

Aside from hosting the parties themselves, which is the most fun, here is what you will typically

be doing on a daily, weekly and monthly basis.

Managing Employees

In the early stage, expect to be the sole employee of your business with perhaps one (1) part-

time assistant.


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41 Lisa Rose


In my experience a high school or college student works out best because they are available on

weekends and are seeking limited employment.

You can find an employee through family or friends, word of mouth with customers, or ad

placement on school bulletin boards where allowed.

Employee Management is easy, mainly involving:

Lite training (Assistant Party Hostess)

Weekly Scheduling

Payroll

Part-time assistant duties:

Helping with make-up and hair and nails

Food prep and serving

Post party clean-up

Employee Qualifications:

Reliable

Outgoing and courteous personality

Enjoy working with young children

Energetic

Low energy is not a good fit

Handling Finances

Businesses depend on the sales of their products and services to keep the doors open.

Most of your transactions will be online payments via credit or debit card. You must also accept

payments in the form of cash, or checks on rare occasions, which should be kept to a minimum.

Customers will also wish to pay by credit card at the conclusion of their party.

For this type of payment, a Smartphone equipped to accept credit card payment, such as Square

or PayPal is the easiest and preferred way to receive this payment. Otherwise, the standard

credit card machine is the next best alternative.

Besides taking payments, you may be asked to provide receipts and answer billing questions from

customers.

Bank deposits can be made weekly and the accounting books should be balanced regularly to

keep everything paid on time, including employees, vendors if any, and estimated taxes.


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42 Lisa Rose


Marketing the Business

Every business requires some type of marketing, large and small. When running a small weekend

business with part-time hours such as this, I found that the best time to devote to marketing was

in the evening once the kids were in bed, or at a time during the day when they are napping or

in school.

This is the time I used to create Facebook and other posts on social networking sites, prepare

advertising for the newspaper, parent magazines and publications, or, possibly a radio ad.

At least once per quarter, revisit your current marketing plans to check results, see what is

working in terms of driving reservations and website visits and make adjustments.

Your ultimate goal is to keep your advertising costs down by generating a high percentage of

word of mouth referral business and through your website and social media posts.

Your target market are parents, mostly the moms, but you will get a nice boost from the kids who

attend parties or hear about them at school and lobby their parents to have their party with you.

A template for Advertising copy tailored to the Princess Tea party Business is included in the

Business in a Box.

Managing Social Media

Social Media is the most cost effective form of marketing and advertising you can find.

It reaches the widest audience almost instantaneously. A nice company website is a necessity

these days, a template for which is contained in the Business in a Box.

Make good use of your website as well as Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and LinkedIn to

communicate with existing customers, mailing lists, and targeted customers to gain maximum

exposure for your business.

Fulfilling Reservations

Customer reservations will typically be initiated by a parent via website or telephone and

completed through your website.

Customers will want to speak to you about their needs, party dates they have in mind, and to get

a feel for the service they can expect.

They may also wish to visit your location to meet you and see your space firsthand.


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43 Lisa Rose


The most efficient way to handle the booking process to include posting of reservation deposits

and completing the reservation forms is for the customer to complete it via your website.

Make sure to check with the parent making the reservation about any food allergies.

Check reservations daily.

Reservation and deposit forms, plus sample email correspondence is included in the appendix.

Customer Service

Without customers, there won't be a business. The responsibility of running a business includes

offering good customer service.

Customers need answers to product questions, reservation date availability, parent involvement,

food, and things of that nature.

Customer service tasks will include:

answering phone calls

written correspondence

communication via email

These are routine tasks handled on a regular daily basis requiring only a limited amount of time.

Inventory and Facility Maintenance

Keeping track of inventory and maintaining upkeep of your party venue is task oriented and carried out on a daily or weekly basis to ensure that parties run smoothly on the day of the event.

Day to Day Activities

Answer customer inquiry calls and emails

Review and Confirm Reservations Calendar

Review Customer Inquiries via website or email and follow up

Social Media Posting/review

Confirm any Promotional activities and follow up


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44 Lisa Rose


Weekly Party Preparations

Check number of bookings for the weekend

Check party attendee counts

Confirm adult refreshment orders

Confirm Employee scheduling

Food shop: cheese, carrots, bread, peanut butter, lemonade, sliced turkey, mayo, jelly,

etc.

Re-supply Skittles, Gummy Bears, Goldfish crackers

Food Prep: slice carrots, cube cheese, finger sandwiches,

Prep adult food platter(s) if any pre-ordered.

Check Vanity supplies (makeup, combs, polish/remover, Q-tips, hair pins.)

Baking (cupcakes may be baked in advance and kept frozen)

Miscellaneous supply check: cleaning supplies, party favors

Check First Aid Kit Check account balance and Deposit any checks

Issue Payroll

Monthly Activities

Maintaining Costumes and Accessories

Shopping to replace costumes and accessories

Regular maintenance and upkeep of the facility

Periodic Community Outreach Appearances

Promote at fairs, school events, silent auctions, charity events

Work on newsletter or any upcoming promotions

Budget for income tax periodic payments

Check Fire Extinguisher

Day of the Event Checklist

Appropriate food supply check

Employee confirmation

Food prep for the events

Set Table

Straighten and organize costumes and vanity supplies

Sweep and vacuum, clean doors, mirrors, windows etc.

Check onsite Signage

Check Music system

Greet guests and let the fun begin!


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45 Lisa Rose


Party Procedures

Welcome the birthday girl, her parent(s), and other first arrivals.

Explain the basic party format and procedures primarily for the parents’ benefit.

Lead a quick tour of the space showing where to drop off presents, a restroom location,

and where parents are to be seated and served lite refreshments.

As child party guests arrive, direct them to the costume racks with you and your assistant,

and have them choose a costume they like in a size that fits them.

The Birthday girl should always have first choice.

Party guests are instructed on where the changing area is and what to do with their own

clothes. For younger girls, encourage moms to help them in order to speed the process.

As the girls are changing into their costumes, your assistant and you can begin the

“primping process,” two girls at a time.

Have one girl at a make-up and nail station and another girl at a hair station. Follow this

process until all party guests have been primped.

As girls are in their costumes and waiting to be “primped”, let them accessorize their

costumes and socialize among themselves.

When all girls are dressed, the individual photos begin. Make this process as simple as

possible, with a pretty backdrop, fancy chair and a bouquet of silk flowers as a prop.

Have the girls form a line, take each of their pictures, making sure to not miss anyone.

Once this is complete, stage an informal fashion show, just prior to the girls being seated

at the main table to begin their tea party.

Once seated, do a brief table manners instruction session. Parents are very happy with

this. It is also a good opportunity to introduce and demonstrate your Etiquette Classes if

you are planning to incorporate this into your business.

Fill teapots with beverage, and begin serving your signature, kid-friendly meal to the girls.

Keep track of your time and schedule.

Once the kid friendly meal is finished, present cupcakes with a lighted candle for the

birthday girl.


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46 Lisa Rose


Have the Children sing ‘Happy Birthday’ encouraging the parents and adult guests to join

in.

Serve dessert to all the girls.

When dessert is finished, begin the clothes changing process.

Have all of the girls return to the changing area.

With younger girls, you may do a simple Cinderella skit to encourage them to remove

their costume and all accessories and “turn back into their normal selves”.

Have all the girls undress and change into their regular clothes at the same time. Have

your assistant or a parent assist them so as to not damage the costumes.

Once the girls are dressed in their street clothes, they are given their printed photo

souvenir, then wait for a parent to pick them up.

Collect payment and prepare for the next party.

Length of parties are an hour and a half or two hours depending on party package

purchased.

If you are doing multiple parties per day, it is important to keep the parties on schedule

so the next party is not delayed.

Added Revenue

You may also want to offer additional food the host parent can offer to their guests. I have found

a cheese/fruit/cracker platter and cupcakes work because these are items I already utilize for the

children and are added revenue. Make sure they are ordered in advance and you are prepared

on the day of the party.


Owner


47 Lisa Rose


19. Adding Income Streams to Your

Business: Your business has the potential for supplemental income streams beyond the core dress-up

parties. Normal party activity takes place on the weekend, leaving the balance of the week to

handle forward marketing, scheduling and other support activities.

Once the party business is established, there is time flexibility and opportunity to introduce

complimentary activities to maximize the use of your space with:

Children’s Etiquette Classes

Mother Daughter High Tea

Bridal and Baby Showers

Week Day Walk-in Dress Up

Girl Scout Troop parties

Sweet Sixteen parties

Craft and Dress up sessions

Sublet of a specific portion of your space to a related small operator such as a

photographer or an after school tutoring business

Unique fashion or re-fashion retail clothing line with your label

Consignment clothing and accessory retail

Sewing Classes

Special Event Parties on the Go

The above list consists of tried and true business model enhancements that are natural ways to

expand your services. Etiquette classes are a very complimentary extension which carries strong

parental interest.

You must be vigilant about scheduling and promotion since your goal is to fill a class with

approximately 10 students. The most popular ages are from 4 to 9, so it may be necessary to

divide age groups into different classes.


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48 Lisa Rose


Lisa Rose has developed a very successful Etiquette program and makes available our training

course in similar fashion to this Guidebook.

You may have other areas of interest such as an embroidery studio or scrapbooking for example,

which again are complimentary in nature and could be incorporated with your mainstream

business.

The beauty of having your own operation is the opportunity to make it unique to your interests

and to maximize its potential to generate revenue.


Owner


49 Lisa Rose


18. Consultation and

Business Coaching.

With the Purchase of the Business in a Box or the e-book, you receive 20 minutes with Lisa either

by email or phone, free of charge. The PrincessTeaPartyBusiness.com website also offers a

Coaching package of four 30 minute sessions.

Lisa Rose also offers Business Coaching to cover start-up, operations, marketing, advertising,

planning and promotions and motivation. Lisa’s rates are $75 per hour with a 2 hour minimum.

Business Coaching is arranged through www.PrincessTeaPartyBusiness.com.


Owner


50 Lisa Rose


Appendix.

Party Request Correspondence

Deposit Request Correspondence

Reservation Confirmation Correspondence

Final Count and Add-On Correspondence

Reservation Intake Form


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51 Lisa Rose


Party Request

Correspondence.

Dear Joey,

Thank you for your interest in Lisa Rose. I have the following dates and times available:

Sunday, October 5th: 9:00 - 11:00, 1:00- 3:00

Sunday, October 12th: 11:00 - 1:00

Please let me know which works best, and I will forward a tentative confirmation and deposit

request to confirm your reservation. We look forward to helping you celebrate your child's

birthday. Please let me know if you have any additional questions.

Thank you,


Owner


52 Lisa Rose


Deposit Request

Correspondence.

Dear Joey,

Thank you for your interest in Lisa Rose. We have tentatively scheduled a party for MISS

ADDYSON, on SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5 FROM 1:00 - 3:00.

In order to confirm your reservation, we require a $75.00 deposit, payable to Lisa Rose by

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 24. Payments may be made via our website, or charged by phone.

Once received, we will send you a confirmation letter with our basic policies and procedures. The

balance payable is due upon your event date. We accept personal checks, cash, and credit cards

(MC & Visa). Tax and gratuity not included.

A $50 refund of your deposit will be made if the cancellation is made 14 days prior to the event.

Otherwise, we will gladly reschedule your child's event.

If you have questions or wish additional information, please do not hesitate to call. Our goal is to

ensure that your child experiences "A PARTY FIT FOR A PRINCESS”.

http://www.lisarosehonolulu.com/Secure-Online-Payments.html

Sincerely,


Owner


53 Lisa Rose


Party Reservation

Confirmation

Correspondence.

Thank you . . . for your reservation to celebrate your child's birthday at Lisa Rose. Our goal is to

create a memorable dress-up tea party for your child and her special guests. We can

accommodate boys, too!

CONFIRMATION:

MISS ADDYSON, SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5 from 1:00 - 3:00p.m.

DEPOSIT RECEIVED 9/24/14

$75.00 PAYPAL

Our services are designed to provide a hassle-free birthday party with virtually no work for the

hostess except sending out the invitations. So, relax, and let the fun begin!

GUIDELINES and POLICIES

RSVP Policy: You will be contacted the Tuesday prior to your party to confirm the number of

guests attending your party as your final invoice will be based on that count. A $20 service charge

will be added for each guest (over minimum) not attending, due to the initial up-front costs and

preparation of setting up the event.

Tax and gratuity not included.

Minimum Attendance: Parties are scheduled for a minimum of 9 children (this includes the

birthday child). If less than 9 children attend your party, you will be charged for the minimum

number. Maximum attendance is 19.

Cancellations and Refunds: A $50 refund will be issued with at least 2 weeks prior notice of your

event date. If you need to reschedule your party because of an illness or other reasons, we will

gladly offer an alternative date with advance notice.

Arrival and Departure Times: Due to the limitations of our facilities and time needed to prepare

for the next scheduled party, we suggest that the birthday child and guests arrive no more than

10 minutes prior to the party start time.


Owner


54 Lisa Rose


Parents and Adults: As we strive to make the birthday child and her guests the center of attention,

we ask that the number of adults (7-9) be limited. Please note that our package price covers the

meal for the children only. Complimentary ice tea is provided for adults. An adult must supervise

younger siblings under four years of age.

Lisa Rose reserves the right to use photographs taken at your event in any and all promotional

media, whether now known or hereafter existing, controlled by Lisa Rose parties and events. As

a host of a Lisa Rose Party, you agree that you will make no monetary or other claim against Lisa

Rose, LLC or the use of any photographs taken of your child (or children), and your guests.

Please feel free to call if you have questions or wish additional

information. Thank You!


Owner


55 Lisa Rose


Final Party Count

Correspondence.

Dear Joey,

We are excited to help celebrate Addyson's birthday on Sunday from 1:00 - 3:00. At this time I

need your final count (including the birthday girl), of the number of children attending.

We also offer additional refreshments for adults present. Complementary iced tea is served, and

you may also order at this time the following for the adults present:

Cheese/fruit/cracker platter for $15

1/2 dozen cupcakes for $8.

Please let me know if you have any last minute questions. We accept cash, checks, MC & VISA.

Tax and gratuity not included. Remember, you don't need anything but your camera.


Owner


56 Lisa Rose


Customer Thank You

Letter.

Dear ,

Thank you for allowing us to host your daughter’s birthday party at Lisa Rose. We truly enjoyed

having and her friends here to celebrate her birthday. It looked like she had a wonderful time.

Our goal is to make your daughter’s dream come true, and hope you will like us on Facebook.

Sincerely,


Owner


57 Lisa Rose


Reservations.


Owner


58 Lisa Rose


Checklist for

Choosing a Location.

A checklist helps you stay focused on your search for the right location

and physical space. Use these steps to save time and money, avoid

mistakes, and most importantly, have some fun selecting the place to

launch your business. Chances are you’ll be there a long time.

1. Check population size in the community, town, or city where you are interested in

locating. Online Google searches should have the information you are looking for.

2. Look into population size of the greater market area within a 30 mile radius

3. Check trends to see if the population is growing and if there is a nice age mix of younger

families with young children in the population.

4. Have a camera or smartphone handy at all times.

5. Do drive by “windshield surveys” of different areas in the community to check quality and

character of neighborhood, types of locations available, and local traffic patterns.

6. Take plenty of pictures to review when you get back from your market survey.

7. Take notes or use smartphone voice command to record thoughts and impressions about

different locations.

8. Focus on locations with good freeway and local street access, and easy ingress and egress

to and from your specific location.

9. Tour the areas on different days of the week to see who is in the area, how busy it is, and

what traffic is like, especially on weekends when you will be most active.

10. Photograph properties you feel would be suitable and check surrounding structures to

see what the adjacent uses are and the condition of those properties.

11. Do a quick survey of available on site parking, then review photo’s later to confirm what

you saw.


Owner


59 Lisa Rose


12. Once you are settled on a few areas, contact a realtor and check available print/ online

resources to determine market rental rates and terms.

13. Be sure you understand what is included in the rent and what is not included, such as

common areas, trash pick-up, utilities, security, and general maintenance.

14. Tour individual spaces to look at floor plan layout, size in terms of square footage,

proximity of available restroom facilities, kitchen or other food prep facilities, street

visibility for signage, parking, and potential for decorating.

15. Check to see what public and private pre-K and elementary schools are in the market area.

16. See what related “kid” oriented businesses are in the area.

17. Review print and online media serving the community to get a feel for how “kid” oriented

the community is.

18. Regardless of how much you may love a space and its location, child safety is a top

priority. If the space or location is questionable at all, pass it by and move on to the next

one.

19. 19. Talk with local merchants and building tenants about what it is like to do business in

the neighborhood, and who their neighbors and customers are.

20. Check police data for crime statistics in the area.

21. Ensure that water is available with any space you are considering.

22. Make sure the space is in move in condition, allowing you to stay within budget for

decorating and minor upgrades.

23. Make sure your space has adequate heating and air conditioning, and also lighting for

internal use and security purposes.

24. Check local agencies for health department requirements, licensing procedures, fees and

taxes.

25. Make a list of local small contractors or handymen for hire to install any improvements

requiring outside labor.

26. Check with an insurance agent for basic insurance coverage rates.


Owner


60 Lisa Rose


Alternative Ways to Launch

Your Business without

Leasing Space on Your Own.

If you love the idea of a weekend Princess Tea Party business, but are not prepared to lease a

space right away, there are creative options available which allow you to get started and develop

a clientele.

If you do a great job and deliver on your all-inclusive, hassle free promise, your clientele will

follow should you choose to lease a space. Why wouldn’t they?

Regardless of where the parties are held, the party packages and features are most important,

and have to be well defined and consistent, distinguishing your parties from any others.

Your job is to make a princess dream come true for a little girl in a happy atmosphere, by offering

simple, all-inclusive, hassle free services.

Parents will be thrilled by giving a unique birthday experience for their child and will still pay you

well for it. You don’t necessarily have to be in your own space to make that happen.

Done the right way, you can really minimize the risks in starting up! Start with what you have and

re-invest profits as you learn what works best for you.

The PRINCESS TEA PARTY BUSINESS IN A BOX Handbook and toolbox

is the blueprint to ensure that you get started the right way.


Owner


61 Lisa Rose


Here are some good alternatives for launching your business without

leasing a space on your own:

1. Sublet during the week. Since this is weekend business, you might find an ideal space for

your business, however, only securing the space if you have a firm commitment from

another weekday oriented business to sublet the space from you during the week when

you won’t use it. This should be something compatible like a sewing or arts and crafts,

tutoring, photography studio, or a like business. Something that can be rearranged easily

to accommodate your weekend party business. It is reasonable that you may be able to

collect enough rent by subletting to make it work for you.

2. Search for a Shared Space. Again, based on your needs for weekend use, you may be able

to arrange a sublet from someone else who operates during the week, and would be

delighted to share space on weekends and generate a little income from it. Some

examples might be cafes, restaurants with small side rooms, small meeting rooms, the

local YMCA, Community Rec Centers, retail stores with flexible space, kids, gyms, dance

and ballet studios, hotels, inns, etc. Your food preparation facility will determine your

menu, and you need to be mindful of health and sanitation restrictions.

3. Go Mobile. Many party venues offer PARTIES ON THE GO to their customers and this

approach has already gained market acceptance. The most likely scenario involves

transporting all party related inventory and accessories to the location, setting up and

breaking down when the party is finished. I have offered this service on a select basis to

higher end clients, and it is a very feasible approach. In pursuing this, you might focus on

higher end clientele and charge higher prices since you may not be able to book as many

parties as you would if customers were coming to you. You might also think about setting

up a “Princess Party Bus”, with much of the equipment set up inside to make transporting

easier.

4. Operate from a Home Based Venue. This is somewhat the same as if you were leasing a

space, however I recommend it only if your home is set up in such a way to have a clearly

defined space to hold your parties. It means you would really need to be organized and

prepared to have lots of kids and parents in the house on weekends, but the number of

bookings you take is strictly up to you and your financial goals. It may be a quicker way to

reach a point where leasing a space fits your business plan.

5. Start Children’s Enrichment Etiquette Courses. This is geared to younger children, ages

6+, focusing on the basic building blocks of appropriate behavior in social situations. It

introduces the concept of cause and effect in relation to their interaction with others.

Parents are always interested in enhancing the social skills of their children, and we have


Owner


62 Lisa Rose


found they learn best with their peers. This does not require much of a facility except for

table and chairs, for a classroom type set up. Princess Tea Party Business also offers the

Etiquette Training Handbook, which is easy to use and requires no formal training on your

part, just a love for children.

There definitely is flexibility in choosing how to host your Princess Tea Parties or Etiquette Classes

that best fit your start-up budget. Your offering in terms of party packages or Etiquette sessions

is the same regardless of whether you are in a permanent location or not.

Flexibility is the beauty of this business!

Do what is best to ensure a successful launch!

This is a wonderful business that can provide supplemental income if that is your goal, with lots

of growth potential without requiring a large start-up investment.

You’ll need to make some investment in dress inventory, business set-up, accessories, and other

items, but with hard work and determination it can be started on a tight budget and you’ll recoup

your investment quickly.

The PRINCESS TEA PARTY BUSINESS IN A Box, and Etiquette Handbooks are just about all you

need, regardless of venue.

As with any business endeavor, be sure to check with your local licensing agencies to make sure

you meet all requirements.

Lisa Zakar is a wife and mother of 3. She is the owner of Lisa Rose, a

popular Princess Tea Party venue. She has a 17 year track record in the

Princess Tea Party business. Lisa had a 10 year history in higher end

retail with Nordstrom before launching her business. Lisa Rose is an

award winning party venue with Best of Honolulu/children’s

parties/Honolulu Magazine, and, Winner of Best Children’s

Parties/Island Parent Magazine. Lisa Rose has locations in Honolulu.


Owner


63 Lisa Rose


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Owner


64 Lisa Rose


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