Questions & Answers
Everything you need to know before the story begins.
Here are answers to common questions about themes, pricing, setup, booking, face painting, games, crafts, and custom celebrations.
Booking & Planning
How do I book a celebration?
Start by filling out the request form on the Plan Your Celebration page. After we receive your request, we will follow up to confirm availability, theme details, location, timing, and the services you would like to include.
Is my date confirmed after I submit the form?
No. The form is a request, not a confirmed booking. Your celebration is confirmed only after we review the details, confirm availability, and agree on the final plan.
How far in advance should I book?
Earlier is always better, especially for customized décor, handmade details, invitations, and larger setups. If your celebration is coming soon, you can still send a request and we will let you know what is possible.
Themes & Customization
Can I customize a theme?
Yes. Each theme can be adjusted by color, story direction, activities, handmade details, and the type of setup you need. We can make the same theme feel softer, more adventurous, more elegant, or more playful depending on your child and celebration.
Can I request a theme that is not listed?
Yes. If you have a special idea, you can share it in the request form. Custom themes depend on timing, materials, and the amount of design work needed.
What is included with a storybook theme?
A storybook theme may include décor, games, crafts, invitations, thank-you cards, banners, signs, and handmade details depending on the package and services selected.
Pricing
What are your starting prices?
Themed décor starts at $350. Games and crafts start at $350. Face painting is $130 for 1 hour or $220 for 2 hours. Photography is by discussion. Final pricing depends on the theme, location, size, guest count, handmade details, and selected services.
Why does final pricing vary?
Each celebration is different. Pricing may change based on setup size, number of details, materials, travel, time needed, custom handmade items, and whether you add games, face painting, photography, or printed items.
Are invitations and thank-you cards included?
Invitations, thank-you cards, and banners are included with party packages and are designed to match the theme and story style.
Games, Crafts & Timing
How long are games and crafts?
Most activities are planned for about 60–90 minutes depending on the children’s ages, attention span, number of guests, and selected theme.
Do children take something home?
Yes. Depending on the theme, children may take home a handmade craft, certificate, card, small treasure, or other story-inspired keepsake.
Can games be adjusted for younger children?
Yes. Games and crafts can be made simpler, shorter, calmer, or more active depending on the children’s ages and the group size.
Face Painting
Can face painting be added to any theme?
Yes. Face painting can be added to any celebration. Children can choose from different designs, including butterflies, flowers, animals, fairies, princesses, dragons, and more.
Does face painting have to match the party theme?
No. Children may choose any design they like. The designs can match the theme, but they do not have to.
Setup, Location & Weather
Do you set up indoors or outdoors?
Both may be possible depending on the celebration, space, weather, and selected setup. Outdoor setups need a safe, clean, level area and weather conditions that allow décor to stay secure.
What areas do you serve?
Make it Novel® is based in Walnut Creek, California and serves the San Francisco Bay Area. Travel availability may depend on location and the size of the celebration.
What happens if the weather is bad?
For outdoor events, we recommend having a backup indoor or covered space. Some décor and handmade items may not be suitable for wind, rain, or extreme heat.
Baby Showers
Do you offer baby shower decorations?
Yes. Baby shower celebrations can include soft florals, gentle colors, handmade details, signs, table styling, and a warm storybook atmosphere.
Can baby showers be customized?
Yes. Baby shower styling can be customized by color, mood, theme, space, and requested handmade details.
Still have questions?
Tell us what you imagine.
Share your theme, date, guest count, location, and favorite details. We will help you choose the best options for your celebration.
Plan Your Celebration