PartyWorks Planning

Portland PartyWorks - Clackamas, OR (Oregon) | (503) 723-8300

2012-02-28T00:21:00.000-08:00

Portland PartyWorks - Clackamas, OR (Oregon) | (503) 723-8300

Inflatables Frequently Asked Questions

2012-02-25T22:24:00.003-08:00

Giant Slide Set Up Time & Other Questions Answered

Are you thinking about adding Inflatable Activities to your event, but not sure of the logistics? Giant Slides and other Inflatable Bounce Houses and Moon Walks often require very little set-up time.Below are some answers to our most frequently asked questions and a bonus video that shows our Giant Slide Inflate in under 4 minutes.

Giant Slide

How long does it take to set up an Inflatable Slide?
Our Giant Slide will set up in about 20 minutes, but each Inflatable is a little different.
What kind of power do I need?
One 20v/ 20 amp power source is required for most of the bounce houses. More extreme items may require additional power.
How much space is required?
Our catalog and our website indicates the space needed for each activity.
Can I set up a Bounce House inside?
Many of the smaller bounce houses can be used inside or out so weather won't interfere with your party.
Can I Pick-Up My Own Rental?

Sometimes. We offer many of our MoonWalks, Carnival Items, Games, Concessions and more on a Will Call Basis. However, the larger activities can often be very heavy and may require delivery. Here is the list of our Will-Call Options.

How Many Hours Are Included In A Rental?
Our Will-Call Option allows you to pick up your rental on the day of your event at 9am. Return it to us 24 hours later by 10am.

Do You Deliver?
Yes, PartyWorks has a large fleet of company owned and insured vehicles. Delivery is determined by the zip code of the event location. Just tell us where you need us and we’ll be there anywhere in Oregon or Washington.

Do You Provide Staffing?
Yes! PartyWorks is proud to offer experienced staffing to handle your event. Most of our entertainment equipment is priced including at least one staff person. At the time of reservation we will discuss your staffing needs and the options available.

Does PartyWorks Carry Insurance?

We carry full insurance coverage. Our professional liability insurance covers all of our events and for additional peace of mind, we can add any organization or company as an additional insured on to our policy for their event.

How can I know if I am getting the Best Price?

We compare (apples to apples) and provide you with our Best Price Guarantee. Don’t be fooled by cheaper rates that have a whole group of attached costs when all is said and done. At PartyWorks we provide you with straight forward pricing that includes staffing on most of our items.

Watch our YouTube video and see our giant slide start our on the ground and completely inflate in under five minutes.

Hippity Hop Horses

2012-02-11T02:54:00.000-08:00

GET-A-LONG-LITTLE-DOGGIE

If your Company Picnic is the same 3-Legged Race and Balloon Toss here are a couple of ideas to put the "HOP N' POP' back in your event.

Hippity Hop Horses

Relay Races Replaced

-These Hippity Hop Horses are fun for all ages and are a hilarious alternative to standard relay races. Design a custom course to fit your event space. If you are at a school the track is already there for you. This race can also be performed with huge cowboy hats on..be sure to have the video camera handy!

"Hi Kristina, Our event was a great success....we enjoyed working with Portland PartyWorks. The kids loved the Fun Derby...Thanks so much for your help. I will be sure to pass on recommendations for this company!"
Best Regards,
Christie Ranslow
Twality PSO/ WinterFest Chair

Rubber Ducky Race

-If your picnic area has a creek running through it here then your in luck. One of my all-time favorite games is the Rubber Ducky Race. Set up a table with colored Sharpies, and glue and construction paper. Then let everyone decorate their own ducks. At a specific time launch the ducks and follow them down the creek. Kids love decorating their duck and watching them drift down the stream. Prizes are secondary to this event as everyone gets to take their duck home. (I still have mine.)

Pot-Luck Planning

Perfect Picnic Planning
-If budget is an issue this year (isn't it always?) Consider this twist on the Pot-Luck. The company can provide the main course and dessert. Let your employees show off their culinary skills and bring their signature dish.

-When you are planning your company picnic planners be sure to consider the personality of the company. Don't be afraid to take a poll of your employees to see what they want. After all, the party is for them.

I Need Help
-If you are looking to create a fabulous picnic that will be remembered long after the last hot dog is gone, Give us a call. Exciting themes, interactive games, fun music, full service food and great family friendly service will make your event amazing. PLUS you can sit back and enjoy the event too!

PORTLAND INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

2012-01-26T15:47:00.000-08:00

Portland PartyWorks will be at the Oregon Convention Center this Thursday through Sunday. Bring the kids and come out for some fun. This show has something for everyone. From Wine Tasting to a Golf Putting Challenge, from Climbing Walls to Electric Cars its all here. PartyWorks will be in the KID ZONE!

PartyWorks Inflatable Cars Giant Slide

Kid Zones and Family Day

The Portland Auto Show is incredibly fun family entertainment. From Radio Disney's fun play zone, to face painting, the shriners clowns, remote control test drives, kids will have more fun beyond pushing the buttons in the latest trucks and autos. New this year the Camp Jeep exhibit has a Kids Course so they can take their own test drives in the Power Wheels Jeeps. No matter what size family, there's no better way to spend a January Portland day.

Click the photo to enter the show website

Oregon Convention Center

777 Northeast M L King Boulevard
Portland, OR 97232
503.872.2150
oregoncc.org

RIP CITY SPECIAL EVENT

2012-01-25T14:24:00.000-08:00

BLAZER'S SEASON TICKET HOLDERS

Rip City Fun

Portland PartyWorks will be providing the Interactive Entertainment for the Portland Trail Blazers Season Ticket Holder's Event.

If supporting the Blazers isn't enough to tempt you to become a season ticket holder read on. Joining Rip City gets you into the exciting world of special events like this one where ticket holders ONLY and their families get invited to play and interactive with the players and coaches in a meet and greet atmosphere....it's so much FUN!!!!

WHEN: Saturday, January 28, 2012
TIME: 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
WHERE: Rip City's House

Portland PartyWorks will be bringing out:

High Top Hoops
Slam Dunk Obstacle Course
Rock Wall
Photo Booth
Bounce Houses
Interactive Gaming Area
Giant Slide
Snow Cones

Here is a photo from last year's event:

2011 Blazer Meet & Greet

Sadie Hawkins and Other High School Dance Ideas

2012-01-09T21:56:00.000-08:00

Spring Fling, Sadie Hawkins, Valentines Dance & Your In Charge
Dances can be the talk of the second term for better or worse. Below we have compiled a couple of tips to help make your dance a success. The timing of this dance can be the kick-off to the count down to summer and everyone looks forward to that. So if your lament sounds like: "I am planning the Sadie Hawkins dance at school. The last five years the dance was really lame and not many people went. How do i get people to come? Also how do i make it less lame?" Follow a few of our suggestions and look forward to a full crowd on the dance floor.

The most important element of any dance is the music.

A professional DJ can work out great if getting the gang out on the floor requires encouragement. They can target the music to help the wall flowers forget their shyness and join in the fun.
A DJ can announce different events during the course of the dance as well so if you are planning on crowning a King and Queen or Line Dancing, DJ's tend to have more experience in speaking as well as spinning.

Professional Disc Jockey

There is truly nothing like live music, which can energize the crowd and get people more excited for dancing and the sound is likely to be better than a DJ. The trouble with hiring a band is they can be expensive, limiting in the music they play and can sometimes take breaks that stop a party in its tracks.

Food and Drinks can save a party.

Dancers and Wall Flowers alike will be looking for water and plenty of it as the dance Hall heats up. Soda often comes in second place as it increases thirst.
If you are planning on a punch using a 7-up or Ginger Ale base is much preferred to a red color. Many a night has been ruined by an accidental spill of Very Berry Kool Aid on a crisp white T-shirt.

Photo Booths

Refreshments can be kept lite. A big hit is Mini Cup Cakes decorated to the theme of your dance. Brownies are also gobbled up but many dances nix food as part of the planning and isn't really necessary.

Pictures, Pictures, Pictures.

Formal photography is becoming a thing of the past with Photo Booths, Photo Props taking its place. With so many smart phones snapping away, these new interactive booths help make the night memorable.

Finally, if you need help, or this dance is a fundraiser, why not call Portland PartyWorks and meet with our Event Planners. All our activities are offered to schools, churches and non-profits at a deep discount and with our commitment to excellence and “Best Price Guarantee” you know you are in great hands and your event is a sure fire success. offer a “Best Price Guarantee” when you are shopping for your event

FOOTBALL TOSS INFLATABLE

2012-01-02T14:59:00.000-08:00

Ducks in the ROSE BOWL = Football Toss at HOME

2012 NEW ADDITION to Our Collection

Ringing in the New Year doesn't get any better than that! Well, unless your a Beaver Fan.

But fear not football fans of all teams; PartyWorks has got a New Inflatable so

Get Ready For Some Football!

Act fast and you might be able to book this for your Super Bowl Party.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Your guests will be able to test their accuracy with this Inflatable Football Game. By half-time everyone will be ready to give it a go. This interactive game of skill easily sets up in minutes and the top is covered so rain or shine football fanatics can show off their mad crazy Football skills. Our new Inflatable Interactive Game is appropriate for ages 6 and up. This is the perfect activity this month at a Super Bowl Party or any sport-themed event on your calendar and wild and crazy fans attending. There probably isn’t a kid -of any age who’s not drawn like a magnet to inflatables. There’s just something about these bouncy, colorful, billowy attractions that’s irresistible. As the inflatable industry matures, changes are occurring in the design, construction, and themes of these attractions. Football Fun incorporates the best of what Interactive Fun has to offer ~ Interaction, indoor/outdoor sturdy construction and FIANLLY...and I saved the best till last...

This attraction can be custom designed with

your schools team's colors!

Don't wait to long to order...this won't be on the shelves very often.

Dear Beaver Fans, we haven't forgotten you and we know your up next year for a Winning Season!

Inpromptu New Year's Day Party Ideas

2011-12-31T20:05:00.000-08:00

Oh No, I Invited Everyone Over For New Year's Day Buffet!

It sounded like such a great idea last night.

Slapping together food, drinks and party games doesn’t get more last-minute than this — but that doesn’t mean you can’t pull off a great time for you and your friends.

“OK, so, Courtney Givens, owner of Simple Pleasures Events in Vancouver, said with a determined chuckle. “First thing you want to do is consider your guest list, because that will dictate everything else.

Knowing how many people — and what sorts of friends — are planning to attend can determine the type of food, music, games and festivities you put together.

Decorations for a last-minute party are simple. Your Christmas lights, and a warm fire may be all you need.You also want to plan about three or four hours of music without repeating songs. Don't forget this is a big day for football so even if its on silent, you know who's coming and if they are big sports fans some will appreciate your attention to this detail. This can be especially entertaining if your guests are routing for opposing teams. A great time for a impromptu friendly bet on the winner. (The losers can do the dishes)

A big fan of party games, Kristina Kuntz, owner of Niella’s Special Events, recently planned a party with a different game in each room of the house. Games that provide information about guests are especially great as ice-breakers, she said.“One game, you have people say two truths and one lie about what they did over the past year,” Kuntz said. “You put those up on the wall someplace and have people guess which is which.”

Givens also likes social games. In one, she makes everyone anonymously fill out a card that lists things they want to achieve in the new year. She then shuffles them and hands them back out, and people have to guess who wrote their card. But games should be optional on this low-key day.

Drinks for your party can be as simply as coffee, tea, juice, and water. For an adult party champagne and beer are optional and if you feel like sprucing up things a Champagne Mimosa with a strawberry can add pop. If you have a signature drink, or you make a mean Bloody Mary, now is the time to show off your bartending skills.

As for food, you mostly want things that can stay out on a table for several hours.No one expects a Sunday Brunch at the last minute so don't stress the small stuff. A basic doughnuts and coffee works especially after a late New Year's Eve. If you asked others to bring a dish be sure to have extra serving utensils and trays on hand.

Most important of all, though? Remember to enjoy yourself. “To be a good hostess you need to have a good time, too,” Givens said. “Sometimes last-minute parties are the best parties. There’s no time to really plan, so you just go with it.”

And heck, you might even get bragging rights.

The inspiration and some of the ideas came from an article in the Columbian. Here is the link if you would like to read the whole thing:

http://www.columbian.com/news/2011/dec/30/party-planning-starts-now-its-not-too-late-to-thro/

Corporate Parties; Not Just For Employees

2011-12-21T18:06:00.000-08:00

Don't Forget The Employees Guest When Planning Your Company Party.

We've all been there, the dreaded annual company party where you are 'NOT' the employee. You don't know anyone, your not even sure you want to know anyone. But you know for sure your role is going to include alot of sitting alone and shaking hands with the same people that didn't remember you last year.

As the employee you know you're gonna owe 'big time' and the ride home is gonna be quiet even if you had a good time.

The days are gone by where it was mostly the wife as guest but 'Times They Are A Changing' and this no longer hold true. So what can you do as the event planner to Avoid the 'Wall Flower-Stuck In the Corner-Watching the Watch Guest?

Here are a few tips to help break the ice among the non employees, make sure they aren't just there as Eye-Candy and increase attendance in following years because your employees and their guests actually look forward to this event.

Casino Night

Here are a few ideas for a new twist to the holiday gathering:

Name Tags Twist: They can be tacky but if you make a game out of it, it can be a great way to get everyone to wear one. Add a sticker randomly to some of the guests name tags. Award a small gift, or extra drink ticket or entrance to a drawing.
Short Quiz: Have a quiz at each table with questions about the employees and their guests. (This will require a little advance sleuth work on your part). The Table that completes the quiz first and most correctly gets A) Served first; B) First through the buffet, C) An Ornament, D) Whatever fits your budget
Virtual Vegas Theme: Create a 'with play money to use at casino games.
Sign In Book: Include a guest sign in book.
Hypnotist: Or other group attraction
Have a Silent Action

Last Resort

A lot of employers are making the cost-saving decision to switch the event to a employee-only lunch. The pressure is off, but so is the glamour and chance to put on your sequins and add a little glamour to the holiday season.

PhotoID PhotoBooth New Generation!

2011-12-16T08:27:00.000-08:00

Jay Leno and Jaime Lee Curtis used our photo booth at The Tonight Show on May 8, 2009. A smash hit for parties ever since, here is the video clip from that nights fun photo shoot:

Interactive Photo Booth As Seen on Jay Leno With Jamie Lee Curtis

Our Photo Booth prints two classic strips of four in less than a minute! (Since most people enter a photo booth with another person, doesn't it make sense that the machine should print two strips each time.

Dozens of Pre-loaded border selections to choose from; Custom Overlays, Black & White and Fun Frames.

Get crazy, see how many faces fit in a frame, or take that sweetheart moment and cherish it forever!

Visit Here to see: Portland Party Works Photo Booth a special hit at Grad Parties and Corporate Events.

Photo Fun

Intuit Sites We Love Interviews PartyWorks

2011-11-18T19:13:00.000-08:00

~Sites We Love Interview With PartyWorks~

What motivates you in growing your business?

Our motto “We’re Serious About Fun” has always meant we treat the business of having fun seriously. Since 1988 our experiences have helped us to shape our company so that we can provide the best entertainment, with outstanding service and an overall excellent experience.

What sets your company apart from its competitors?

PartyWorks strives to be a valued partner and won't settle for being just another supplier. We know our event experience, quality service and customer support will keep our customers coming back and we work hard to exceed expectations at every step of the way.

PartyWorks employs staff not contractors. This staff is hired for their customer service skills. We have a dedicated Graduation Party Planner that specializes in this specific event structure. This venue focus is why PartyWorks can offer knowledgeable suggestions based on experience and help clients avoid potential problems.

We pride ourselves in carrying one of the largest selections of interactive inflatable’s and games in the Northwest and grow this every year. We add to our inventory based on customer feedback and current best sellers.

Finally, we also offer a Best Price Guarantee, ensuring our clients they are not only getting the area’s best service and quality, but also the best price available.

What is your favorite part of running your own business?

Having been in business for over 20 years PartyWorks is now seasoned and not susceptible to the ups and downs of a start-up. The company environment is flavored by an atmosphere of fun and we all take joy in working with our return customers and creating successful events and happy, satisfied customers.

Listen To Clients

What lessons did you learn along the way that can help new businesses just starting up?

Our motto is we are “Serious about Fun” but we are also serious about our safety and responsibility to our clients and staff. We hire our own employees instead of contractors believing employees have company pride and are more vested in excellent customer service. This pays off in customer satisfaction and our staff is consistently recognized for their willingness to go the extra mile in client response cards. Because we have employees we carry Workers’ Compensation Insurance to protect our customers & employees.

We also learned to follow up with our clients after every event for customer feedback; they can tell us which games got the most attention, what they will be looking for in the future, and how well the products worked together. We find this information invaluable in future buying decisions and many other business plans.

PartyWorks has developed programs for all price points so we can offer everyone the opportunity to have the very best fun. Our Will Call/Pick Up program works well for parties that only need a bouncer. We have packages for schools and non-profits and we have large scale event programs that combine inflatable’s and games with catering and events designed to complement each other and service a variety of interests.

How do you use social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc.) to promote your business and engage with customers?

When we redid our website last summer we designed it for social media communication across all the platforms. We wanted our customers to be able to access and discuss specific products by name, description or theme. Equally, we wanted to give event planners, schools and non-profits a place to go for ideas and inspiration. We showcase photos from past events here, offer ideas for theme parties, and share news and details on upcoming community events.

Though our blog we try to offer helpful timely suggestions for event planning, activities and party management. For instance, we featured water slides and outdoor barbeque tips in August; carnival activities and haunted house tips in October; and now we will focused on company parties and Christmas events.

PartyWorks YouTube Channel

We have a YouTube account that highlights some of the All-Night Grad Parties. This is the perfect venue to target the graduation age client. We keep in contact with event planners and in touch with whats going on in Portland through our Twitter account.

Posts are unique to the site and not blanketing out the same message to all Medias. All of your social media sites have links to each other and then back to the site with additional links from our Blog and Facebook page highlighting specific area on the site such as our catalog and current specials.

I use Facebook Insights, Google Analytics and Homesteads website reports to track what’s working and use this information to help me decide future posts, tweets, blogs and website SEO tactics.

What are some new or exciting things we can look forward to for your business in the near future?

Right now we are at the annual IAAPA Attractions Expo 2011. This is where we purchase new products to add to our line. There are so many amazing new activities and we will be sharing them on Facebook and Twitter first before launching them on our New Attractions Page

We learn a lot here and these ideas will be incorporated into our 2012 business plan. We will share some of these ‘Best Practices’ on our blog in the next month!

Anything else you'd like to share?

Yes! PartyWorks believes in giving back to the community. Not only do we support charitable causes, we provide special package pricing for non-profit, fundraising or school events. Our goal is to partner with as many non-profit organizations as we can to help them be as successful as possible!
Go here to see the interview at: Intuit Sites We Love

Intuit Sites We Love - Portland PartyWorks Meet our Sites We Love winner...

2011-11-15T17:12:00.000-08:00

Intuit Sites We Love - Portland PartyWorks Meet our Sites We Love winner..

Intuit Sites We Love - Sites We Love Featured Product Portland...

2011-11-15T16:36:00.000-08:00

Intuit Sites We Love - Sites We Love Featured Product Portland...

2011-11-15T16:33:00.000-08:00

Intuit Sites We Love - Sites We Love Featured Product Portland...

HALLOWEEN DISASTER DIVERSIONS

2011-10-29T05:24:00.000-07:00

This time of year kicks off the busy party season with Halloween parties for kids, teens and adults. It can be a challenging time to try and plan a Halloween party for your school-age ghosts and goblims. Here are a few tricks and a couple of treats.

School starting changes your child's social scene and making the guest list can be a potential landmine. Be sure to make sure last years shunned football squad, isn't this years best buddies. Discuss this again the DAY OF the event, so you aren't surprised.
If your child is at a new school throwing a party to break the ice is NOT a good idea. If no one is able to come your child will be left holding the bag, and probably not wanting to go to school on Monday. Better to visit the downtown area where most local businesses host a trick-or-treat for kids. This gives him the chance to mingle with school chums outside of the classroom.
Activities need to be considered carefully with the weather changing everyday from rain to sun to early frost. If your party is during the day, its still a good bet the kids can go outside. Cameron The Caterpillar gets the kids outside, and still protected from the elements. Its a great way to get out all that pent-up energy run-off with a large slide, teeth, and windows. (Watching them navigate the maze is as much fun as they have going through.)

CAMERON THE CATERPILLAR

Dance Dance Revolution

If indoors is the plan, why not make it a video arcade theme? Dance, Dance Revolution gets them up and moving and everybody interacting. If you are giving out prizes, keep a few extra on hand in the event of a tie. If you notice one of your guests struggling with interacting you can enlist their aid to help pass out gifts and party favors.
Three hours is long enough for a kids party, but have a few back-up games on hand in case you find yourself with bored guests and extra time, or any other Boo-Ha-Has. Here are a few:

Zombie Dance
Pass The Pumpkin
Costume Contest
A Charlie Brown's 'The Great Pumpkin' or your child's favorite video is a great way to wind down the party while parents are picking up their kids.

Finally, as said before, its a busy time of year and things can get overlooked at the last minute. But the FOOD can be the best part. Let your child help invent a menu item on their own.

Spaghetti is fun if you wanna tell the kids its brains (meatballs) and intestines (pasta) but be careful not to scare anyone into not eating.
Goblin Feet
Hot Dog Mummies

Goblins Feet

Hot Dog Mummies

Have a wonderful Halloween weekend and we will see you next week!

HALLOWEEN DISASTER DIVERSIONS

2011-10-29T05:23:00.000-07:00

This time of year kicks off the busy party season with Halloween parties for kids, teens and adults. It can be a challenging time to try and plan a Halloween party for your school-age ghosts and goblims. Here are a few tricks and a couple of treats.

School starting changes your child's social scene and making the guest list can be a potential landmine. Be sure to make sure last years shunned football squad, isn't this years best buddies. Discuss this again the DAY OF the event, so you aren't surprised.
If your child is at a new school throwing a party to break the ice is NOT a good idea. If no one is able to come your child will be left holding the bag, and probably not wanting to go to school on Monday. Better to visit the downtown area where most local businesses host a trick-or-treat for kids. This gives him the chance to mingle with school chums outside of the classroom.
Activities need to be considered carefully with the weather changing everyday from rain to sun to early frost. If your party is during the day, its still a good bet the kids can go outside. Cameron The Caterpillar gets the kids outside, and still protected from the elements. Its a great way to get out all that pent-up energy run-off with a large slide, teeth, and windows. (Watching them navigate the maze is as much fun as they have going through.)

CAMERON THE CATERPILLAR

Dance Dance Revolution

If indoors is the plan, why not make it a video arcade theme? Dance, Dance Revolution gets them up and moving and everybody interacting. If you are giving out prizes, keep a few extra on hand in the event of a tie. If you notice one of your guests struggling with interacting you can enlist their aid to help pass out gifts and party favors.
Three hours is long enough for a kids party, but have a few back-up games on hand in case you find yourself with bored guests and extra time, or any other Boo-Ha-Has. Here are a few:

Zombie Dance
Pass The Pumpkin
Costume Contest
A Charlie Brown's 'The Great Pumpkin' or your child's favorite video is a great way to wind down the party while parents are picking up their kids.

Finally, as said before, its a busy time of year and things can get overlooked at the last minute. But the FOOD can be the best part. Let your child help invent a menu item on their own.

Spaghetti is fun if you wanna tell the kids its brains (meatballs) and intestines (pasta) but be careful not to scare anyone into not eating.
Goblin Feet
Hot Dog Mummies

Goblins Feet

Hot Dog Mummies

Have a wonderful Halloween weekend and we will see you next week!

Last Minute Halloween Party

2011-10-29T05:15:00.000-07:00

HALLOWEEN DISASTER DIVERSIONS

This time of year kicks off the busy party season with Halloween Parties for kids, teens and adults. It can be a challenging time to try and plan a Halloween party for your school-age ghosts and goblems. Here are a few tricks and a couple of treats.

School starting changes your child's social scene and making the guest list can be a potential landmine. Be sure to make sure last years shunned football squad, isn't this years best buddies. Discuss this again the DAY OF the event, so you aren't surprised.
If your child is at a new school throwing a party to break the ice is NOT a good idea. If no one is able to come you, your child will be left holding the bag and probably not wanting to go to school on Monday. Better to visit the downtown area where most local businesses host a trick-or-treat for kids. This gives him the chance to mingle with school chums outside of the classroom.
Activities need to be considered carefully with the weather changing everyday from rain to sun to early frost. If your party is during the day, its still a good bet the kids can go outside. Cameron The Caterpillar gets the kids outside, and still protected from the elements. Its a great way to get out all that pent-up energy run-off with a large slide, teeth, and windows. (Watching them navigate the maze is as much fun as they have going through.)

CAMERON THE CATERPILLAR

Dance Dance Revolution

If indoors is the plan, why not make it a video arcade theme? Dance, Dance Revolution gets them up and moving and everybody interacting. If you are giving out prizes, keep a few extra on hand in the event of a tie. If you notice one of your guests struggling with interacting you can enlist their aid to help pass out gifts and party favors.
Three hours is long enough for a kids party, but have a few back-up games on hand in case you find yourself with bored guests and extra time, or any other Boo-Ha-Has. Here are a few:

Zoombie Dance
Pass The Pumpkin
Costume Contest
A Charlie Brown's 'The Great Pumpkin' or your child's favorite video is a great way to wind down the party while parents are picking up their kids.

Finally, as said before, its a busy time of year and things can get overlooked at the last minute. But the FOOD can be the funnest part!

Spagetti is fun if you wanna tell the kids its brains (meatballs) and intestines (pasta) but be careful not to scare anyone into not eating.
Goblin Feet
Hot Dog Mummies

Goblins Feet

Hot Dog Mummies

Have a wonderful Halloween weekend and we will see you next week!

HALLOWEEN MAZE; A Fun Twist on the Old Haunted House

2011-10-08T19:53:00.000-07:00

Looking for a way to amp up the excitement at your annual Halloween Bash?

Haunted Houses just not generating the thrills and chills they used to?

Dreading the design and construction of another haunted maze?

Here's an idea:

Trade in the old haunted house for a Dark Knight Maze.

Turn your location into a Ghost-Busters adventure with this custom-made maze. We fill the maze with Halloween music, spooky fog and luminescent decor for an unforgettable experience. The theme is up to you.

If your goal is to save time and create an easy to navigate haunted house, this is the perfect setting for safe haunting with its inflatable walls as the backdrop for spooky ghosts, goblins, and things that go bump in the dark. Or as dark as you make it with the black lights and your own ghoulish lightening.

If your events plans include more action-packed fun, maybe your group is ready for Black-Light Laser-Tag. Equipped with a hand held laser gun and target vest, your ghost busters are ready to do battle through a maze of barriers, inflatable obstacles and sticky spiderwebs.

Getting in that Halloween mood, here are a few additional ideas to help create the perfect ghoulish gathering.

Build suspense by lighting the way to your Haunted Maze with Illuminating Pillars
Add a corn maze for the little ones to run and older guests to stroll through.
Capture memories forever by including a couple of photo opportunities in the corn maze.

Do you have plans that would help take a haunted Halloween from ordinary to extreme? Please share you thoughts with us.

Back-To-School Bashes That Break The Ice and Don't Break the Budget

2011-10-03T01:59:00.000-07:00

Lower Columbia College 2011 Back-To-School Bash
Bill Wagner / The Daily News

Student Vice President Teakre Vest, 17, launches a flying leap to subdue a fellow sumo wrestler, college Public Relations Director Dimitrius Marith, 18, Thursday at Lower Columbia College. Officiating is Scott Gumm of Portland Party Works, whose company rented the inflatable costumes and arena to the group. The pseudo-sumo wrestling event was part of a two-day welcome of students at LCC that included free food (elephant ears and shaved ice), music and games in the college's grassy quad this week.

Sumo Wrestling Suits as well as other interactive activities are as popular at high school and elementary school Welcome Back Parties as they are for the college crowds. Activities that encourage crowd participation like our Sumo Suits, Inflatable Rock Walls, Laser Tag and Human Orb Balls are the perfect environment for students to mingle and make new friends.

Inflatable Laser Tag

The common goal of these events (regardless of age) is to offer a fun-filled, anxiety-free environment for new students to integrate with returning students and get familiar with their environment. It is also mentally helps close the door on the leisurely fun of summer and allows students to refocus their attention on school.

PartyWorks has been helping students return to school in memorable style all over Oregon, Washington and Idaho for over 20 years. We can help with planning, organizing, and staffing your Welcome Back Bash. We are not just another vendor, we strive to be a valued partner, ensuring your event is successful and leaving your students with happy memories for years to come. We offer a “Best Price Guarantee” when you are shopping for your event.

A few of the things to consider:

What is/are the goals for your event?
How will this event relay your schools values?
Is the event for ALL students or New students only?
How will this event be funded?
Will you include an orientation session and school tours?
Where will the event take place? (this helps determine activities)
How will you staff your event? (students, teachers, parents)
How will you handle food? (Snacks, a meal or ice cream social?)

Catered Buffet or Pizza Party

How will you measure success?

This is one of those events where detailed pre-planning is crucial for success. With so many different things happening at the same time it is easy to get overwhelmed and overrun. Depending on a fully insured vendor with experienced staff and equipment to handle any situation will save you both time and money. A good event planner generally has access to discounts not available to the public. Trained to recognize and prevent potentials for disaster, their past experience gives you "event success insurance".

Here are some reviews from other schools we've worked with:
"Your crew arrived on time, was extremely helpful and friendly, and was crucial to making our event a success. In addition, the large crowds surrounding each attraction demonstrated that the participants thoroughly enjoyed the services provided by your company. I look forward to working with you again!"

~ University of Oregon

"We wanted to write and thank you for your support of our first college Bowl event! It is always such a pleasure to use your products, as well as recommend you to others. The mix of games, personnel and enthusiasm helped to make our first Interactive Fan Fair a success.!"

~ College Bowl Game Production

"On behalf of St. Luke's, I look forward to working with you on "Abracadabra Kid For A Night" and many more events to come"
~St Luke's

History of Inflatable Bouncer

2011-09-17T15:51:00.000-07:00

1959 - John Scurlocks invents the 'First Inflatable 'Spacewalk'

1968 - First Inflatable rental Company

1974 - Netting Used For Walls

1986 - Inflatables Theme Park Opened

Credited with the invention of the Bounce House, John Scurlocks greatest achievement in the field of inflatables was the invention of safety air cushions. This product is now widely used by fire and rescue departments to hold people jumping from heights.

In 1959 while experimenting with inflatable covers for tennis courts, swimming pools, and other enclosures John came up with the idea for the first moonwalk. He noticed the loss and refilling of air made the covers bouncy and the employees kept flopping and jumping on them and having a great time. Scurlock decided to create a kid’s amusement bouncer. He originally called the inflatable structures "Spacewalks" and started a company of the same name.

In 1974 the Jupiter Jump was born. These modern jumps had inflated columns to support walls constructed of netting allowing air to pass through the bounce house. This innovative solution solved the problem of intense heat that was generated inside the jumpers greatly enhancing the popularity of the Inflatable jumpers.

Back in 1968 Scurlock's wife Frances started an inflatable rental company and in 1976 they constructed a custom facility for the manufacture and leasing of the increasingly popular products. Their marketing targeted kids birthday parties, church and school functions. Their
son Frank extended the rental enterprise across the United States under the brand name Area Walk and Inflatable Zoo. In 1986 Frank also established the first all inflatable indoor play park called The Fun Factory.

The term "Bounce House" came to popularity with the resurgence of hipster culture in New England. These inflatable’s are also marketed as Bounce Houses, Moon Bounces, Astrojumps, Moonwalks, Jolly Jumps and Spacewalks. "Pula pula" is another name commonly used by Latinos, which literally means "jump jump". In Southern California, another popular term is Closed Inflatable Trampolines (CITs). Bouncy Castle or Inflatable Castle is used in Ireland, the UK, New Zealand and parts of Australia, and Jumping Castles in Arizona, Australia, Canada and South Africa.

Whatever they are called, there growth in popularity has led to an inflatable rental industry which includes inflatable slides, obstacle courses, games, and more.

Inflatables are ideal for portable amusements because they are easy to transport and store. Computer Aided Design or CAD, means the variety of jumpers offered today is huge and only limited to human imagination.

PARTYWORKS JOINS SANDY OKTOBERFEST

2011-09-08T17:13:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow kicks off the 3rd annual Sandy Oktober Festival.

This three-day event is for all ages to enjoy. Seniors and singles, couples and families can find fun. Are you ready to enter the pickle eating contest or maybe you have an award winning Jam to enter into the Jam/Jelly contest. These old-fashioned events share the spotlight with traditional Oktoberfest fun like the 10,000 sq ft Biergarten with American and German beers in abundance. Each night features a different musical venue for all music aficionados. Still not sure, maybe the Classic Car Show is more your style.

If that doesn't get you, we know what will. PartyWorks 25-foot Inflatable Extreme Slide will be there along with our Four Elements Obstacle Course and one of our all time favorite Bounce Houses.

We will be near the Kindergarten area so look for the smiling faces of children and the squeals of fun as risk-takers take the slide of their life. Are you up to the challenge?

The OktoberFest is located at:
St. Michael's Church
18090 Se Langensand Road
Sandy, Oregon

More information can be found at: http://www.sandyoktoberfest.net/index.htm

Portland PartyWorks "All-Night Grad-Parties"

2011-09-03T22:31:00.000-07:00

Birthday Party Bounce

2011-09-03T20:39:00.000-07:00

September is a crazy time of year for parents with school starting and reestablishing bedtimes. It also happens to be the month my son was born. Somewhere in between the lists of school supplies to be bought and school clothes to be organized, I had to plan a birthday party.
I will never forget his 10th birthday slumber party with 10 boys. My biggest mistake was not having enough activities to occupy those sugar-fortified dynamos! When the lights went out; pillows went flying and there was a giant dog-pile with a bloody nose on the bottom.

Here are some ideas for your Tweens party to kick the school year off with some serious fun!

Ask your tween to help plan the party. Agree together on a budget so there are no false expectations. If you do this, the rest will fall into place.
How many guests will be invited? Is your son or daughter the life of the party, or are they happier with a few close friends?
Where will the party take place? Now that you know the who and the how much, you are ready for the where. The weather, time of day, and type of event will need to be considered along with any space requirements.
Remember who the party is for.

Do you find your tween singing into her curling iron? Then a Karaoke Contest and Dance Revolution (interactive dance video simulation) with Glitter Tattoos for that extra glamour might be perfect. Roll out the red carpet and make it a Grammy Award Theme complete with Trophies for the best Karaoke performer and Dancer. Be sure to include the theme on the invitation so guests can dress in style.
If your tween is a daredevil with sports on his mind; your in the zone with Inflatable Laser Tag, or an Inflatable Rock Wall followed up with a hot dog roast and bonfire for S'mores. The invitation should advise the guests to come dressed appropriately. Have blankets on hand in case someone is cold.
Wanna keep it small but special, rent a Pinball Machine, Foosball, and/or some video games. Load up on finger foods; Nachos, sliders, popcorn, snow-cones and cupcakes.

Final Tips:

If the party is co-ed keep it casual and have lots of activity to act as ice breakers.
Evites are an excellent way to save money and get creative. Try your hand at making your own video invite.
Teens want to feel independent; staying on the sidelines to supervise will be much appreciated by your birthday guests.

If you need help with planning a Birthday Party: we are here with Event Planners, Party Packages, and many more ideas! Give us a call.

Join us on Facebook, Twitter and subscribe to our blog for more party tips, event quips, and coupons to clip.

Proper Party Planning Prevents Problems

2011-09-03T15:15:00.000-07:00

Real World Examples Demonstrate The Importance Of Planning

When you are throwing a party for a very large crowd, detailed planning becomes your best weapon against disaster ruining all your hard work. Rather than give you a list of "Do's and Don'ts", I am going to share some real world examples from a recent wedding. Turns out that party had a few embarrassing problems, one that started before the event even took place!

PROBLEM: Kim Kardashian Axes 50 From Wedding Guest List...The issue was a problem with space--"namely not enough of it--at the home of Google's Eric Schmidt in Montecito, California. Wouldn't you think this would have been recognized sooner than two days prior to the big event?" It is worth noting, the wedding was planned in under three months. Standard wedding planning guidelines recommend six months to a year. Invitations generally are mailed out 2 months in advance, with a Save The Date mailer 3-6 months prior to that.

Solution: When selecting a venue remember to count the staff. Kim's staff of 125 rousted some invited guests. You will also need to determine if you will have other items requiring a large quantity of the venues square footage. Will you have a dance floor, band, photo booth? All of this will reduce your maximum attendance capacity. A formula often used by meeting planners is 10 sq. ft per person*. Then the seating arrangement, table size, exhibits, etc are deducted from this to determine the maximum attendance the room will allow. (*reference: meeting planners international)

Problem: The planning also neglected to secure the proper permits for an event that large. The county does intend to impose a fine based on how many people were actually there, and if they broke any other ordinances.

Solution: Do yourself a favor. Plan your reception in a place that has the staff, equipment, space and expertise to make your wedding reception a care free celebration with your family, friends and spouse. If your venue is at a private residence, you will need to meet with the city planner, fire marshall, insurance agent, etc to avoid not having the right permits, liquor license and insurance. You will also want to know what the noise ordinances are. (Location is actually a topic for another blog all on its own.)

Problem: Authorities Receive 22 Complaint Calls; Shut off Party's Music Early. Although a private security firm contracted by the Kardashians hired seven on-duty deputies to help with crowd and traffic control, that was hardly enough to handle 400+ guests, paparazzi and trespassers. In addition to their other duties of removing all cameras and phones from the attendees.

Solution: Many times the location staff or the event planner has a security firm they work with who is familiar with your selected venue. Knowing what to watch out for because of previous experience is worth its weight in gold. How much security required is going to be based on total number of guests, size of the venue, and the extent of their job responsibilities. Another important consideration is parking and traffic, especially if you are in a residential area. Often times these positions can be supplemented with event staff.

Problem: The wedding was set to start 6 p.m., the ceremony actually got underway at 6:37pm, and lasted about 30 minutes, reports E! News.

Solution: A good event planner knows that sticking to a timeline is key to a successful event. If you don't have an on-site coordinator make sure you have someone you can trust keeping you on schedule. Rushing invites mistakes and frustration among your guests...especially if they are waiting to eat! If the wedding had started on time there would have been another 45 minutes of music and dancing.

Planning a wedding with 450 guests is quite an undertaking especially with the whole world watching as Kim Kardashian and her celebrity wedding planner found out Saturday. Almost everyone that has ever thrown a get-together knows there may be some unexpected hiccups along the way, so don't panic. Having professional, on-site event managers can guarantee surprises will be minimal and handled quickly. In the 20 years that Portland PartyWorks has been in business, we’ve developed systems, knowledge and relationships that make us a leader in the entertainment industry. There is no substitute for a well-trained and experienced event manger on your side.

Do you have some real world experiences you would like to share? Would you like to comment on the content found here? We welcome your input in our Comments section.Back links;
http://celebs.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474979965449
http://www.independent.com/news/2011/aug/23/kardashian-wedding-fallout/
http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Top-10-Wedding-Planning-Mistakes-You-Can-Avoid-and-Save-Thousands-of-Dollars&id=6468451
http://independent.com/news/2011/aug/23/kardashian-wedding-fallout/
http://www.eonline.com/news/party_time_kim_kardashian_changes/259363#ixzz1VfgMyskr

Who Is Portland PartyWorks & What Do We Do?

2011-08-21T17:20:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the beginning of the Portland PartyWorks Blog.

With our giant inflatable slides, mechanical bulls ,bounce houses, carnival midways games ,and dunk tanks we are not your everyday party rental company.

Our event planners have been working all over the northwest helping plan corporate events, birthday parties, casino nights, team building activities, company picnics, fundraising events and all-night graduation parties. We specialize in interactive fun for all ages and have been creating unforgettable events since 1988. Portland PartyWorks is pleased to say event planners from the Portland Trail Blazers, Intel, ESPN, University of Oregon, Mid-Columbia Medical Center and hundreds of churches; have all trusted Portland Party Works with their special events.

Incorporating inflatable interactive fun into your event is extremely exciting and adds an extra element of surprise for your guests. It does however require additional planning to guarantee no logistical surprises on the big day. Your PartyWorks event planner will help you to select the perfect activities for your event, taking into account the age of your attendees, the venue limitations, set up and tear down time requirements, and of course your events theme.

Working with us allows you to enjoy your event knowing that you are working with experts in the field of interactive fun.