With just a few quick flicks of a paintbrush, your guests can be transformed into anything from a fearsome tiger to a daring superhero, a fantastical creature or even a spirited fan for their favorite sports team. Face painting adds a delightful blend of artistry and magic to your event, making it a hit with guests of all ages. Thanks to both its whimsy and versatility, face painting is one of our most sought-after offerings here at EPIC Entertainment.
Hiring a face painter may seem straightforward, but some preparation is essential to ensure a positive experience for you and your guests. Read on for six key considerations to keep in mind before securing a face painter for your upcoming event.
1. Is face painting right for your event?
Face painting can be an exciting entertainment option, but it’s not always the best fit for every occasion. Certain conditions, such as moisture from a pool or the sweltering heat of summer, can affect the longevity of traditional face paint. If you’re planning a summer soiree or incorporating pool activities, consider these waterproof alternatives:
- Waterproof Face Paint: Some artists offer specially formulated paints that can withstand splashes and sweat. Be certain to ask if this option is available, ensuring that the stunning designs won’t turn into a runny mess.
- Glitter Tattoos: A fantastic alternative to traditional face painting, glitter tattoos allow you to apply vibrant, colorful designs to your guests’ skin while remaining waterproof for up to seven days. These tattoos are ideal for withstanding the Texas sun and the excitement of backyard or neighborhood pool parties.
Additionally, take into account other activities planned for your event, the available space and your guest list to determine whether hiring a face painter will be the perfect enhancement to your celebration.
Face painting isn’t just for kids! The designs can be tailored to suit all ages, allowing every guest to join in on the fun. Whether it’s whimsical characters or elegant designs, there’s something for everyone!
2. What products will be used by the painter?
You may be surprised to hear there are options for the types of face paint, but just like traditional makeup, various face painting products can be leveraged. It’s crucial to know what your artist is using to protect your guests. Here are two key details to note:
- Paint: Some face painters may opt for inexpensive acrylic paints that can be harmful to the skin, potentially causing rashes or breakouts. In contrast, experienced artists use skin-safe, FDA-approved makeup products specifically designed for use on the skin. These high quality products ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
- Glitter: Painters often use glitter to add a touch of sparkle to their designs. To protect your guests, it’s essential that only body glitter—not craft glitter—is used. Body glitter is specifically formulated for skin application and helps avoid irritation or allergic reactions.
By understanding the products your face painter uses, you can guarantee a delightful experience for everyone at your event.
Face paint isn’t limited to just faces! At EPIC Entertainment, we’ve seen guests choose designs on arms, shoulders, necklines, ankles and baby bumps during maternity photo shoots. This flexibility allows your guests to express their creativity and select the perfect spot for their unique designs!
3. Does the artist offer designs that meet your desired variety and complexity?
When researching face painters, start by looking at their online photo galleries, whether on their website or social media. This will give you insight into the types of designs and styles they typically use. Ask yourself: Does their past work resemble a masterpiece, or does it look more like a beginner’s attempt? Is there a good variety of designs? Will your guests feel proud to wear the creations you see or post a selfie of it on social?
As you vet potential artists, engage them with questions that will help you assess their fit for your event. Consider asking about their years of face painting experience, the types of designs they enjoy creating and their ability to accommodate any unique requests for your party. Also, it’s important to communicate your party theme. For instance, if you’re hosting a tailgate, you will want an artist can paint your team’s logo. Aligning expectations upfront will set up a seamless experience for everyone involved.
Pricing for face painting can vary significantly between artists. Typically, more experienced painters charge higher rates for their services, as a higher fee often reflects a greater level of expertise and a positive reputation with past customers. When comparing options, consider investing in an artist with proven experience to guarantee a successful event.
4. How many guests can be painted per hour?
A seasoned face painter usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes per person, depending on the complexity of the designs. This pace means they can typically paint around 12 to 15 faces per hour. To enable all your guests to enjoy this fun experience, assess the size of your guest list. Then, consider whether you need to hire the painter for a longer duration or add an additional face painter. Planning ahead will help guarantee that everyone has the opportunity to get their face painted and join in on the festivities!
For larger events, it’s wise to plan for managing the face painting line. Consider having a volunteer stationed at the end of the line to prevent new guests from joining as the artist’s time comes to an end. Additional time isn’t always feasible if the painter has another gig. If the painter does stay longer, expect to incur extra fees. Being mindful of the artist’s schedule can help you avoid a higher bill and ensure all your guests leave happy!
5. What expectations should you share with the artist?
As you plan your perfect event, it’s essential to communicate any expectations you may have, as well as potential challenges the artist could encounter. Here is some important information to share:
- Dress Code: Would you like the face painter to dress according to your event’s theme or follow a specific dress code? Make that request clear and ask if there’s an additional cost for them to do so.
- Venue Access: Inform the artist about any details they need for accessing your venue, such as parking instructions or access codes for gates or doors. Providing this information in advance will help guarantee a smooth arrival.
- Day-of Contact: If there is a designated point of contact for the event, share their contact information with the face painter. This way, the artist can easily reach someone on the day of the festivities if they have trouble finding the location or need assistance.
By anticipating potential issues and addressing them upfront, you can create a seamless experience for both the face painter and your guests.
Considering a combo artist who can provide both face painting and another performance type, such as magic or balloon twisting? While these versatile performers are rare, they do exist and typically come at a higher price due to their unique skill set.
When booking a combo artist, make sure you allocate enough time for them to serve all guests with both activities. Keep in mind that they will complete one type of performance, like all face painting, before transitioning to the other. Planning ahead will help maximize the experience for everyone at your event!
6. What are the booking requirements?
As you approach the decision to hire a face painter, it’s important to gather all relevant details. Here are some key questions to ask:
- Travel Fees: Inquire about any mileage and travel time charges. Artists will calculate these costs based on their location in relation to your event venue.
- Minimum Booking: Many face painters have a minimum booking requirement in terms of hours, which can affect your overall cost. Clarify this before finalizing your decision.
- Space Requirements: Determine a designated area for both the face painter and the line of guests waiting to have their faces painted. Dedicating ample space will help manage the traffic flow of your event.
- Supplies Needed: While face painters typically bring their essential supplies, there may be additional needs you must accommodate. For example, if the artist will be stationed outdoors, it’s crucial to provide a shaded area for both their comfort and that of your guests.
- Breaks: For longer events, face painters will need to take breaks. Discuss their break schedule to set proper expectations for your guests.
- Reservation Requirements: Ask the artist what information they need from you to secure your date and time.
- Payment Terms: Clarify when payment is expected and any specific terms involved.
- Additional Costs: Request a breakdown of the total cost for the booking, including any potential add-ons, to avoid surprises on the final bill.
By addressing these booking requirements upfront, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience in both the lead up to your party and on your event day.
Tips for face painters are not required, but they are always appreciated! If you plan to include a tip, factor this into your overall entertainment budget. A small gesture of appreciation can go a long way in acknowledging the artist’s skill and effort.
Face painting is a beloved choice among party planners and guests alike, thanks to its versatility and ability to add a unique touch to any event. By following these tips, you can avoid common pitfalls and provide a delightful experience for everyone involved.
Looking for inspiration? Explore our face painting gallery for creative ideas! If you need assistance finding the perfect face painter for your event, don’t hesitate to request a quote today.