hiring hall for DS party- what do i need to have/ ask for?

[krisskross]

we are prob going to hire a hall and entertainer for DS 5th birthday. we have never done it this way and have no idea where to start, what to ask the hall or entertainer etc, and to make it worse its only 3 weeks away. pls can some kind mumsnetter advise! Thanks

Where do you live? Is it a village, or a town? Look around for a hall, like a church hall or scout hut and find a number to ring (I turned up at the start of the village flower show to ask if the organiser had the hall secretary's number). They are usually very friendly and helpful with explaining what is already in the hall and what the rules are re rubbish, furniture etc. Also look in any local newsletter to see where "community" events are being held.

Afraid I can't help with entertainers though.

Halls: make a list of those youve been to parties at recently, and decide on a few alternative dates/times that would suit you. Google hall name & most will have contact details - usually easiest to ring if you can.

You might want to think/ask about:

• is the hall suitable for x number of children
• how many chairs/tables do they have
• tea/coffee making facilities/kitchen - is anything available?
• is there any crockery/tableware that you can use (although tbh paper is WAY easier)
• hourly/party rate (places round us tend to have a different rate for kids parties)
• can you make a provisional booking & confirm once you know what entertainer can do.

If halls don't have availability, ask them to recommend somewhere else - they may come up with places you haven't thought of

Entertainer - no idea, sorry! Ask mates who they've used/recommend?

Three weeks away is quite tight (certainly round here) - so I'd start calling soon

Sometimes soft play areas etc work out cheaper - I usually go for a hall but we do our own entertainment. If the dc in their class are still on half days you might get a cheap weekday deal.

thanks everyone.