big contract

So recently I got notice that I got the contract for a local zoo. I am still in my first year of painting and am really excited that things are taking off like they have been. My only concern at this point is from going to 0-60 in such a short amount of time. They also recomended that I hire 2-3 people.(scary process). Any segestions of maybe how to go about hiring and "standard zoo set up"? I have an idea but really want feedback from you long time painters. Thanks again

Hey! I work in a theme park Mon-Fri. Although I don't deal with our contract, I've worked there for 4 years. I might have some tips for you. What kinda contract is it? A big event, seasonal stand, or every day stand?

Congratulations and best of luck - I hope all goes smoothly in the transition to painting there, I'm sure it'll be a great time!

It is not everyday but starting the new year it will be on weekends and for private events and during the zoos busy season everyday.

Thanks Helena

SO jealous!!!

I want my own ZOO.....I am doubley jealous!!

Ohhh. I am so going to contact my zoo! Did they approach you or you them?

Definitely wear a face paint as much as possible, offer a sale when its slow, and my number one tip is to have a plan for all weather surprises. I live in Florida and our weather is very fickle. But having a plan really saves you. You don't want to be stuck at your stand soaking wet with floaded paints in a thunder storm.

Congratulations! And good luck.

Kara....liked your blog pics! Do you do a zoo stand also?

Thanks! I work part time at a theme park/zoo with a big art entertainment company.

I paint at a 'magical woodland park' all weekends and holidays plus special events, March- Nov.
Its different to 'just' being freelance...
Unlike the other (4!!) painters in the Uk who have similar 'full time' gigs, I'm hired by the park by the hour, however many I paint which is good some days when i'm quiet but not so good if I'm super busy. But it works for me....

What I can do is restricted to their theme (ie their characters, UK wildlife, magical stuff) and it can get a bit - zzz - after a while when you have done your 40th Twiggle princess that day of 6 weeks with no day off. But I always did do big long events, from the start of my arty career, and it is the best way to refine your designs/ skills as you don't this sort of practice just doing small parties a few times a week!

1st off make sure you have a proper tall chair to suit you, comfy shoes and an ergonomic set up. I have had other painters work with me often and they can't cope with long hours doing it with their usual set up, they get cramps etc.

I use a LIST of designs with no pics but a small description; it means I can speed up and sleek back the design if I'm busy or add extra bits on slow days. Plus of course you can change/ add designs easily then.

The main comment I get, even although i know I'm one of the top painters in the area, is on my speed. 9 out of 10 are more excited by the fact I take 3 mins or less than the quality of the design. I guess its fair enough, they have paid for a day in the park and want to get on with it, not queue! So my big 1 would be get your SPEED up...also if you are charging per face its the only way you'll get much money anyway.

Yes always be painted/ noticeable.

Go for high impact stuff- forehead/ arms/ full face. Cheek art takes too long for a small un-noticeable bit of work. Its when other kids/ parents SEE whoever you have painted already wandering past that they ask where to find you.

Cat x

Congrats first of all, that can work into something nice it sounds like . . . not that you need any more work really, but are they allowing you to advertise your own business? Even just having your biz name somewhere really obvious? Hiring more people, that is a bit more of a challenge . . . I would look around the zoo itself and see if there is any volunteers who want to be at the zoo and (get paid) while there . . . just a thought? haha Most zoos have many many volunteers . . . and they are usually very nice people who are open to trying some new things . . .