Frequently Asked Questions
How much notice is required to book a party?
Please contact us to verify that your requested date is available since parties are booked on a first come - first serve basis. Because our menus and crafts are custom tailored for each party, we request that you provide us at least two weeks notice. However, parties can be booked on shorter notice, if the date is available. Please inquire for specifics.
Where will the party be held?
Parties are in the convenience of your own home; we bring everything to you. We cover much of the Kitsap Peninsula and greater Seattle; areas outside a 20-mile radius will be subject to a travel surcharge. Any incurred parking fees, tolls or ferry expenses will also be added.
How many guests are included in the package?
Our package prices are calculated for eight participants, including the guest of honor. If you are planning an event that will include more than eight guests, we can discuss how we can customize your event to accommodate a larger group. Unfortunately we will not be able to accommodate unexpected guests the day of the party. In addition, due to the nature of planning and setting up your party, we are unable to provide a credit or refund if ultimately fewer than eight guests arrive.
Is there a minimum age?
Costumes, crafts and activities are designed for children aged four and up. Many of our props and activities contain small parts. If children under the age of four are present for the Princess Party, they will be dressed in a princess dress, but they may not be able to participate in some of the games and activities.
Are boys welcome at the party?
Although our parties are catered towards girls, boys are always welcome and encouraged to participate in the games and activities. If we are notified in advance, we will provide alternative costumes, coordinating props, crafts and favors for boys in attendance.
How should guests dress for the Parties?
We recommend that younger girls wear a sleeveless leotard or swimsuit since dressing will be in a group setting. Depending on the ages of the guests, we may request that one parent assist with changing and accessorizing younger girls. Girls who are seven and older will most likely prefer to dress themselves, so we request that the host provide a private dressing area. For the Teddy Bear Tea guests will want to wear their own party or fancy dresses. Each guest will decorate a special hat to wear during tea; we will offer gloves and jeweled accessories.
Is makeup used?
Unless makeup is requested, we do not use cosmetics on our guests.
What if a guest has food allergies or dietary restrictions?
We will forward questionnaires with each invitation requesting that the parent or legal guardian of each child advise us of any known allergies or restrictions. It is the responsibility of the host to make sure that the questionnaires are returned to us at least two weeks prior to the party date, to allow sufficient time for any required substitutions to the menu.
Can a host provide food for the party?
Our menu was created to alleviate staining of our dresses and linens. We request that the host advise us in advance if they plan to provide food.
What do hosts need to provide?
Bainbridge Tea Parties requests the following:
- Kitchen area for food prep
- At least one dedicated shelf of the host's refrigerator
- One full sized dining table large enough for eight chairs and table settings.
- A wall or open space at least 8' x 8' for the photo session backdrop
- A private room for costume changes
- Adequate space to set up dresses and accessories
- An open area that is large enough to set up two 3' x 3' craft tables
What does the photo session include?
Our packages include a digital photo session in front of a themed backdrop. Each guest at the party will receive a 4x6 print to take with them. Parents are also welcome to take their own photos during the party. A professional photographer can be added for a fee; please inquire if you are interested in this option.
Can parents stay for the party?
At least one parent or legal guardian must remain on premises during the party. Others are welcome to stay, however, please keep in mind that we will be unable to provide a table setting or crafts and activities unless they are one of the scheduled guests.
How long does a party usually last?
We will arrive 60 to 90 minutes prior to the scheduled party time to set up and prepare. Our parties usually last 90 minutes to two hours, and we will require an additional 30 to 60 minutes for clean up.
What is your deposit policy?
A deposit of 30% is required to reserve your party date. An additional 20% deposit is required two weeks prior to the scheduled party. The balance is due on the date of the party. We accept cash, checks and money orders.
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
If you cancel your party more than two weeks prior to the date of the scheduled party, for any reason, your deposit will be refunded less a $50 cancellation fee. If you cancel your party less than two weeks prior to the scheduled date, for any reason, you will not receive any type of refund or compensation. However, if an emergency arises and you find the need to reschedule your party, we will work with you to find an alternate party date, based on availability.
* WA State requires us to add sales tax of 8.6% to your final invoice.
* This is only a partial list of our policies; a contract will be sent to you upon receipt of your deposit
