9 Tips to help you earn more face painting tips!

How do you know you’ve done a good job? The host tips you!

I’ve been to many birthday parties, both as the entertainer and as a guest, and these are a few things I’ve learned that really make an impression.

Here are 9 tips to help you earn better face painting tips:

 

1) Communicate Before the Event

After the initial booking: Send an immediate email to the host, thanking them for choosing your company. Include the details (date, time, location, party theme, child’s name) in the email so you both know you are on the same page.

Two days before the party: Send another email letting them know how excited you are to entertain at their party. This builds trust and gives them a sense of relief that you haven’t forgotten about them.

The day of the party: Send a text message one hour before the party telling them that you are so excited and you’ll see them soon.

2) Arrive Early

Show up ten minutes earlier than they are expecting you. A great motto is to under promise and over deliver. Tell them you will be there at 2:00 but show up at 1:50.

3) Look Good

Your appearance is your brand. Come to the party freshly showered, wearing clean, modest clothing, and smelling pleasant. Be sure your fragrance is soft, and not overwhelming.

Check your breath! Don’t indulge in garlic the day before the party, and don’t smoke or drink alcohol before the party.

Wear clothing that can be identified as your brand. They will be taking pictures of you, and you want them to remember your company.

4) Introduce Yourself

When you greet the host, introduce yourself. Say your name and the name of your business. I give the host a warm hug, but if you’re not a “hugger” than a double-handed-hand-shake will work. Touching definitely makes a nice connection.

5) Know the Name of the Host AND the Birthday Child!

Dale Carnegie says, “A person’s name is to that person the sweetest and most important sound in any language.” Using a person’s name is crucial when making a connection with them.

6) Paint the Birthday Child First

While I am setting up, I start to interact with the birthday child. I begin with friendly conversation and tell them that they are first on their special day. I hand them the picture book and tell them that I can do anything they want in any color they like. I usually add more embellishment to their design, more bling, more color, and more detail so they stand apart from the crowd.
The only exception to this rule is if the birthday child is afraid. Then it is best to start with a sibling, the host, or another child until the birthday child feels more comfortable with you.

7) Ask the Host to Take a Picture

Many face painters ask me if I get permission to post pictures of the children on social media. It’s super easy to get permission by just asking the host, “Will you take a picture of me and your child so I can post this awesome party on Facebook?” I haven’t had anyone tell me no, in fact I’ve had people take several pictures using my phone. Then, they come to my Facebook page and “like” the pictures.

8) Be Real

You are the best you, so embrace it! Do what you know how to do, and tell them if you don’t know how to do something. If it’s your first time painting a dragon, tell them! If you feel comfortable, then give it your best shot and have fun with it. Remember this is just face painting, not tattooing! If they don’t like it, wash it off and start over.

9) Live in the Moment

Attending a party is such a fun and magical experience. I’ve been invited to parties I would have never dreamt I’d attend; so many different ethnicities, cultures, locations, and communities. What a wonderful gift it is to be a face painter and celebrate life!

Bonus Tip:

If the host offers you food, soft drinks, or cake, take them up on it! Some cultures may actually be insulted if you refuse. I know we can’t eat cake at every party. If I did, my tutu would be tutu tight! But a little bite of what they are serving is a good way to be part of the group.

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