To newer face painters... learn from my mistake.

I have always been apprehensive about approaching businesses about face painting. I was so nervous about rejection, which oddly I am very forward in other areas of my life. I ordered nice post cards to send out and new business cards, and made a new website. I drug my feet a little too long.

Last week I approached a local chic fil a and low and behold, they had a face painter the day before. Then a local Harley Davidson yesterday, and they had a face painter the day before. It seems we have new painters popping up every day. In my area, most of them are good painters. They use good products and are talented.

It seems the more aggressive ones are getting out there and getting the jobs. I encourage you to do the same if you have places locally. Entertainers at restaraunts are a popular thing here now. If I had just mustered up a little more courage I would of most likely got those jobs. I will be hitting the streets, painted, with bells on as soon as I get back from vacation. I am not going to give up until I have one regular restaraunt job.

That's the ticket, Eva....market yourself constantly!!!

Your right. It's all about being persistent, having a good "product" & being professional. These seem to be the 3 keys I've found to getting & keeping good gigs.

So... Go get 'em!

Good Luck!!!!

I completely agree. Make sure before you head out you have done your homework. Know what others are doing and charging. Know what to say and how to present the benefits of having you there. Most importantly, be flexible. Some restaurants I have worked at have asked for a deep discount in exchange for a meal or gift certificate. If you'll be reaching a new audience and booking gigs, a discount will generate you more money in the long run. I love my restaurant gigs for filling up my slower days and getting to meet new potential clients.

I understand what you mean. I hate to just get on the phone and "sell" myself, but it works out. I made my first phone call to a local business who is moving and asked if they could use me for their new grand opening. Not only did they say yes, but they are adding birthday parties to their services and asked if I would be interested in being a painter for parties there....Well SURE I WOULD! I also planned to call the local Chic-fil-a and hesitated too long as there was an ad in the paper the other day that they are having a Face Painter this weekend!!!! He who hesitates is lost....

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