FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Curiouser and curiouser...

  1. Argh! I've never organised a party before, what do I need to do?
  2. Bring in the specialists! Our aim is to help you deliver a stress-free party, we can take care of everything from the magic show and party games to venue suggestions, balloon models and more! And everyone who books a party will receive ‘Hatter’s Helpful Hints for Perfect Parties!’
  3. How far ahead should we book a party?
  4. As early as possible! Weekends and school holidays fill up especially quickly.
  5. Where should I hold the party?
  6. Any suitably-sized hired space such as a village hall, community centre or function room. There are many recommended venues across York and Selby on our dedicated Venues page
  7. What is the best time of day for a party?
  8. For weekends, mid-morning or early-afternoon parties are most suitable - as families are often busy during the evenings.
  9. Could we have the party outside?
  10. No sorry, from experience we've found that the children can be easily distracted by wasps, airplanes, bouncy castles, heat (or rain!) or next door’s dog barking. An indoor party is generally more suitable.
  11. How many children should I invite?
  12. Up to 20 is a generally a good size, but it depends on how big the party venue is. Generally, we limit parties to a maximum of 30 children including the birthday child - however we can sometimes accommodate more for an additional fee to cover extra balloons, prizes and planning. Prices available on request.
  13. Are your parties more suited to boys or girls?
  14. Both! The Magic Hatter's unique Big Birthday Bash party is designed to be equally fun for boys and girls, and tailored for different ages
  15. Do you have DBS checks and insurance?
  16. Yes, we hold enhanced DBS disclosures, and are Equity Registered with full Public Liability Insurance up to £10million.
  17. Where do you travel to?
  18. We currently deliver parties and events across York, Selby and the surrounding areas including places such as Riccall, Escrick, Naburn, Kelfield and Fulford./p1>
  19. Do you do party bags?
  20. No, we don't provide party bags but we offer something even more exciting...Magic Hatter Wand Packs. A plastic wand plus instructions for six magic tricks you can do with it, something the kids will actually want to keep! Subject to availability.
  21. Can you provide a birthday cake?
  22. No, we do not provide birthday cakes or party food - but can take care of almost everything else!
  23. Do you offer a clown?
  24. No. Many children - particularly younger ones - are scared of clowns. The Magic Hatter sometimes acts like a clown, but without the big scary shoes or painted on smile. Our Hatter is a friendly magician, eccentrically dressed with a silly sense of humour and not at all scary!
  25. Do you produce a rabbit?
  26. Not a real one, there are no rabbits in The Magic Hatter's hat...just a few hares! Get it? Hairs!
  27. Do you offer different party themes?
  28. The Magic Hatter's Big Birthday Bash is the core party theme we offer, as this is a general theme based on 'birthdays' so is suitable for all children attending the party, and equally appealing to boys and girls. Other themes are available for Christmas, Easter and Halloween shows.
  29. What age range are your parties suitable for?
  30. We tailor each party to the age of the children attending, but our main Party Packages are most suited to 3 to 7 year olds.
  31. My child has had a Magic Hatter Birthday before (or has been to a friend’s Magic Hatter Birthday Party) If we book again, will it be the same show?
  32. The Magic Hatter often changes the tricks he does to keep things fresh, however children love repetition and will often request to see the same tricks again (just as they will happily watch the same film over and over again!)
  33. Will I need to provide any equipment?
  34. No, The Magic Hatter will bring everything he needs apart from a small table and chair which can usually be found at the venue. He will also need access to an electrical socket.
  35. How do I secure a booking?
  36. A 50% deposit is required to hold a booking, with the remaining balance payable on the day. The deposit is payable by online banking or cheque to Magic Hatter Birthdays LTD.
  37. What if I need to cancel due to illness or unforeseen circumstances?
  38. Our standard terms and conditions will be sent to you when you book a party or event. There is also the option of purchasing Party Protection Insurance which would allow you to cancel at shorter notice and receive up to a 100% refund. This is completely optional, and offered for peace of mind.
  39. What do you offer for events?
As well as birthdays, The Magic Hatter regularly provides entertainment for a variety of other events including fairs, festivals, school shows and tourist attractions. Please contact us with your requirements!