Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reserve a party date?

Parties are booked on a first come, first serve basis. When a party date and time has been selected, a $75.00 non-refundable cash or check deposit and a signed party contract will be necessary to secure the date. The balance will be due on the day of your party. We suggest booking parties at least 4 weeks in advance. However, we will make every effort to accommodate last minute reservations.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, money orders, personal checks, Visa and MasterCard. There will be a charge of $25.00 for any returned checks.

How long is the party?

All parties are 1 hour and 45 minutes long.

Are invitations included?

Yes- our standard invitations are included. If you would like to add a final touch to your party, custom invitations are available for purchase. They are personalized and theme coordinated. Invitations CANNOT be printed until your deposit has been received. There is an additional fee for reprinting invitations; unless Once Upon A Sundae has made a typographical error.

What ages are your parties for?

Our parties are designed for children ages 3 years old and up. All guests under three years of age MUST be supervised. Each party is designed to be age appropriate.

What happens if I have to cancel my party?

Once a deposit has been paid, parties may only be postponed. We will gladly work with you to find an alternate party date for your consideration based on availability. If you choose to cancel our services for ANY reason, your deposit is non-refundable.

What happens if there is inclement weather or if there is an illness?

In the event of unforeseen circumstances, or inclement weather Once Upon A Sundae reserves the right to reschedule your event. If the guest of honor becomes ill, we will gladly work with you t choose an alternate date for your party based on availability. If you choose to cancel your event at this time, please remember that your deposit is non-refundable.

Is there a minimum/maximum attendance?

Party packages include attendance up to 11 guests - the birthday child is free. If less than 11 attend your party, you will still be charged for the same amount. Attendance over 11 guests will be charged at a per person rate of $17. We understand children become sick or emergencies occur and that there is a chance you may have no-shows. In this case, we will only charge you for the those in attendance (minimum of 11 guests must still be met or paid for) and $ 4.00 for any no-shows to cover the personalized craft (if applicable and unless we are notified 4 days in advance of the party).
Maximum attendance for most parties is 25 guests including the guest of honor.

Do the children eat while in costume?

To preserve the costumes for future use we don't allow the children to eat in the costumes. (Our tea party themes are an exception- children "take tea" in costume).

Can I bring in my own food?

The only food you are allowed to bring in is Cake. We do have refrigerators for your use if needed. Please let us know ahead of time so we can make sure we have space available. We offer food, cold beverages and coffee for the adults at an additional charge.

What happens if a guest has food allergies?

It will be your responsibility to check for food allergies. Should any of your guests have food allergies, we will try our best to be accommodating. If a guest should have severe allergies, we ask that either you or the guest's parent provide an alternate menu. Once Upon A Sundae and its associates are not responsible for allergic reactions or any other medical reaction stemming from the menu, wearing of costumes, or any activity taken place before, during and/or after the party.

In the case of liability and/or financial remuneration due to the aforementioned, the responsibility lies strictly with the client.

What about Goodie Bags?

Goodie bags are always welcome! You can bring your own goodie bags or purchase theme related favors from us.

What should the children wear?

All costumes are designed to be worn over the child's own clothes. The guests DO NOT get undressed. Let your guests know that boys may put on costumes over their clothes. We recommend girls wear a leotard or swimsuit and tights to facilitate costume dressing in a group setting.

Is there enough dress-up? Do you have enough of the same dresses in the same size for each girl?

There is tons of dress-up. Although we have many of the same styles in different sizes, we cannot provide each girl at your party with the exact dress in their exact size. From experience, variety counts, since the girls tend to change their dress up costumes continuously throughout the party. We also have capes, knight costumes and pirate props for the boys to name a few!

Will there be make-up?

Depending on the party theme selected, a light make-up session or face glitter/painting will be offered. Boys will be treated to mustaches or tattoos. All applicators are disposable. It is very important that guests and parents inform Once Upon A Sundae of any illnesses pertaining to skin irritations, rashes, head lice, or eye infections prior to the party. Parents can opt out of this option by notifying our staff at the time of this activity.

When do you need the final RSVP Count?

You will need to contact Once Upon A Sundae at least 4 days prior to your party to review the R.S.V.P.'s that have been received, and to determine the exact headcount for your event. This will be the number we use to plan appropriate quantities of food, favors, and the advance cost of preparing for your party.

Do adults stay during the party?

Parents and other adults are always welcome to stay and enjoy the party. The guest of honor's parent (mother/father/guardian) must remain on premises at all times.

Can siblings of the guests stay?

Please remember that our party packages cover ONLY the guest of honor and their guests. Unfortunately, we will NOT be able to accommodate unexpected guests or siblings of guests, as we prepare our parties based on the final headcount given to us prior to the party.

What happens if guests arrive late?

Because our parties are based on a schedule, they work best when all guests arrive on time. Those guests coming late may join the party at whatever point it has progressed to. This is necessary in order to provide the least amount of disruption to the party. Your understanding is appreciated.

Can all party themes accommodate boys and girls?

Yes! We can customize any theme package to accommodate parties with both boys and girls.

Who will take care of a guest if they become ill, have a behavior problem or are feeling insecure in the unfamiliar surroundings?

The party hostess is responsible for the flow of the party and the party activities. We kindly ask that you monitor disruptive behavior and attend to any child who does not want to participate. This will help us to provide the best possible party experience for you and your child.

Are we allowed to tip the Party Hosts?

YES!! If you feel your party host(s) did a great job, than tipping is encouraged and always appreciated. Our Party Hosts promise to work hard for you and make your child's special day memorable for them and for you!

Additional Policies:
Once Upon A Sundae and staff assume no responsibility or liability for accidents or damages. Once Upon A Sundae will provide you with the most professional of services. In the event of damage or loss of Once Upon A Sundae inventory and/or damage or loss to the premises, the financial responsibility lies entirely on the customer. Prices and party packages are subject to change without notice.