Fall Festivals, Back to School Events, Fall Carnivals, Harvest Parties, Halloween and MORE!

As the fall season begins to approach the kids will be going back to school, soon the leaves will be turning colors, and dropping to the ground, and even sooner you will start seeing more and more sweaters, rain coats, and those familiar gray weather days that so many of us wait for here in the Portland area.  PTA parents, School administrators and principals, Churches, cities and towns, parks departments, corporations, shopping centers, and other organizations all begin the preparations for the coming season’s events- whether it be just a one day extravaganza- or a festival spanning several days.

All these people planning another year of fun and festivities for the fall event- and each person planning, whether a seasoned professional or a first time planner is looking for something to set their event apart from the rest.

Here are our top 10 ideas and planning tips which we can offer fall festival and event planners:

1) Determine a Budget.

This is the number one thing to figure out before you start.  Once you get the budget, try and get some more money to work with.  Like anything a fall event is something which the more you spend, the more you get out of it.  But do not be concerned if you have limited funds- you can still have a great party by planning it on an off night and being a little creative and careful with your spending.

2) Hold the event indoors

The coming season presents it’s challenges with being outdoors- so it is best at the least to have an indoor alternative event option.  This will allow you to keep your guests comfortable and your attendance up.  Another thing you may consider is simply renting a larger tent or some canopies to offer some shelter from the elements.  At Clowns Unlimited, we can help with any of your special event needs.

3) Send out invitations and marketing early.  Send out marketing and invitations again.

People these days are inundated with all kinds of marketing messages, so just because you send something once- do not assume it is stuck in their heads.  We recommend sending regular reminders as much as possible to your guests to make sure that it is something they are aware of…  Keep broadcasting the message and exciting the potential guests, this will ensure a larger turnout for your event.

4) Select Activities that are age appropriate

If you are planning a party where most all of your guests are 16 year olds, make sure you are choosing things that are of interest to them.  The same thing goes for any age group.  A group of 5 year old’s are not going to have much fun if you blow  of your budget on alcohol service, and a 45 year old is not going to have a great time in the bounce house.  So making age appropriate selections for entertainment and activities is imperative.

5) Make sure there is something for everyone.

If you create a nice selection of activities with individual items geared towards the different groups of people you have at an event, your are going to have a much happier crowd.  Offering a variety of activities is the best way to have a successful gathering, regardless the age span or size of your group!

6) Food/Beverage and Snacks should be warm

It’s getting colder outside.  Think Hot apple cider, hot cocoa, and the like.  You can always be prepared to offer cool drinks should we get warmer weather than usual- but typically, especially if you have an outdoor event- people are looking for a way to get warm.  This carries over into food service as well.  This time of year we see an increase in food items like nachos, popcorn, and the warmer varieties.  Our Snow Kone machines sit on the shelves for a few months…

7) Use extra decor elements to make things more exciting.

There are all kinds of decor options available to create a more visually exciting event entrance.  People walking up to a decorated and visually stimulating activity are generally going to be more excited about what is to come- giving your event a better perception over all.  We have all kinds of things from sky dancers, to inflatable arches, balloon decor, and more that will help you to create a fun atmosphere!  Just ask for some help.

For prizes: Have both fun candies and healthy treat options

We can help you with all kinds of carnival prizes- and can likely save you a fortune with our wholesale accounts.  But aside from the typical trinkets, offer both the candies that people regularly associate with fall and Halloween events- and be sure that you offer some healthy snack options for the crowd…

9) Host a Contest – Costume contest, Pumpkin Carving, or even a coloring contest.

A contest is a way to not only garner interest in your fall event or harvest festival, but it is also a way to build the excitement and offer an incentive to those who may be attending.  Many people will plan their approach to the contest and think about it, look forward to it, and discuss the event with others in order to prepare.  This will generate a buzz, increase attendance, and garner more involvement and effort from your guests!

10) Use a professional party planning and event rental company.

No matter what you do- make sure to use professionals when you order any entertainment, games, supplies, tents, or anything for your event.  There is no worse way to do things than to shop based on price alone when it comes to your event.  The best thing to do is to use a reliable source like Clowns Unlimited- be honest with us about your needs and if can do anything to help you- we will do it with a smile.

When you are planning – Step outside the box.

When it comes to planning a fall event, there are some of the old standby activities which are common at all kinds of fall festivals and parties.  It is your challenge as a planner to think up something new and different.  If you have an idea you think will work, call us and share it with us.  We will do our best to help you!

Bounce House Rentals and Party Rentals – Tips for a successful rental event.

Renting a bounce house, inflatable slide, jump house or other party rental service does not have to be stressful- use this simple guide to make sure you are choosing a bounce house or party rental provider that is professional, reliable, and accountable.

Portland, Oregon and Seattle, Washington party rental companies come in all shapes and sizes. So one can become overwhelmed when they realize all of the different rental companies out there to choose from. If you are looking to rent a bounce house or other party rental items for your upcoming gathering choosing the right provider ultimately will determine the success of your upcoming event. Rule of thumb number one is to always choose the right company.

1) When renting from any party rental provider make sure that they are a real company. There are a huge amount of party rental and event providers in the Phoenix area who are not real businesses- many of these people simply rent a few bounces on weekends and have other priorities in life, which in many cases means your event comes second to the other things in their life.

Choosing a professional special event provider means you can count on them to show up. The company is their priority- and this means your event is the priority as well.

To determine if the company you are considering is a real company- look them up on the Washington State department of Labor and Industries website or the Filing in Oregon website, and make sure they are registered and licensed to provide in your state.

2) Make sure the provider is insured. If the provider is unlicensed- they are likely uninsured- which can mean a big disaster for you and your guests if an accident or other unfortunate occurrence happens during your party.

3) Make sure you get a copy of the invoice and service agreement.

If you do not get a copy of this, how can you be sure the party rental provider will be delivering your rentals to the right place, at the right time, and charging the agreed fee?

Get a copy of the event paperwork, and ensure that you review every detail so that you understand the full agreement, and so that you make sure that the party rental company has all of the right information is correct pertaining to your event.

Double check these fields:

* Delivery Address
* Event Times
* Day of event phone number

If those are wrong- then your bounce house rental is not going to go very well- and you need to notify your provider immediately.

So many times people do not check the paperwork, and this can lead to great frustration on both ends….

Hopefully the above information will give you good results for your upcoming Portland or Seattle bounce house rental. If you need any information about renting bounce houses from a very good and reputable provider in Seattle, Washington or Portland, Oregon- do not hesitate to call us. We rent all kinds of bounces, jumpers, and inflatable games across the Pacific Northwest- in addition we are party and event planners, we offer a huge selection of tents, tables, chairs, and more for events of all shapes and sizes. We can literally assist you with all of your party rental, party planning and special event needs.

Choose Clowns Unlimited for all of your Portland and Seattle bounce house and party rental needs!

Inflatable games are the perfect addition to any party rental selection.

An inflatable game added to any party or event spells full on fun. Regardless the type of special event an inflatable game rental is put into- it typically results in a positive experience for all the party guests and the party planner. Our special event planning and inflatable game rental services are increasingly popular for all types of events.

Game rentals come in all types. The inflatable game is no different and offers a myriad of different options which are popular across the United States and across the world:

Types of Inflatable Games
Add special fun to any party rental with any of these game options:

Bounce Houses – the first type of inflatable game ever made, a bounce house is a very simple concept. Basically kids (or adults) go inside an inflated structure and bounce and jump like a giant bouncy trampoline. People call bounce houses a lot of different things- they are also known as jumps, jumpers, jump houses, bounces, bouncers, bounce houses, jumping castles, moonwalks, moon jumps, and more.

Inflatable Slides – The inflatable slide is a huge structure which you climb up, and you guessed it- slide down. People often think it would be a good idea to jump off the top, or to bounce down the slide- when in fact this adds a lot of danger to the slide. All slides should be used the same- sit feet first on your bottom, cross your arms in front of you, and slide on your bottom or back down. These basic rules apply on any slide (inflatable or not.) Jumping from the top, sliding head first, or two at a time can cause injury which can simply be prevented by following some basic rules.

Inflatable Obstacle Courses – These units area the inflated version of any obstacle course you can think of… They offer all kinds of jumps, climb through, squeezes, climb ups, slide downs, and other challenges which are tough for any person of any age to complete.

Interactive Inflatable Games – All of the above categories of inflatable games come in all different types, sizes, shapes, themes, and designs- the interactive line of inflatables offers a huge amount of different activities… Bungee runs, velcro walls, sumo wrestling suits, equalizer challenges, giant twister games, dodgeball arenas and all kinds of fun activities are available in the interactive games line.

Any party or event is better with the addition of an inflatable game rental.

At Clowns Unlimited, we specialize in providing party rental services at all kinds of special events in the Portland, Oregon and Seattle, Washington areas. Our event services are available to event planners of all types. We are glad to offer our services to non profits, corporate events, private parties, and all kinds of local community events.

It is that time of year again, when it comes time to ponder what to do for this years company picnic. In the current economy we are seeing a slight pick up in housing sales year over year, as well as what appears to be an over all improvement in the stock market. In today’s tumultuous times, some firms are cutting company picnic budgets, holiday parties, and more- but companies which are headed for success are using these classic forms of employee appreciation to catapult morale which has a huge impact on the long term success of an organization. This article takes a look at the company picnic, holiday parties, and other incentive events and the reasons why companies have them.

1) Boost Employee Morale – A boost in morale means that the individuals at a firm feel better about themselves and better about the company for which they work. This leads to higher production levels, higher attendance levels, and higher sales numbers for a company.

Company Picnic Portland – if you are planning a company picnic in Portland- then Clowns Unlimited has you covered!

2) Strengthen Interpersonal Relationships – Working alongside each other, relationships often develop. friends are made, and sometimes a peer group is created. The more comfortable and familiar an employee is with the coworkers around them, the lower the chance that they will start seeking alternative employment. If their kids become friends at the company picnic, it could become a long term friendship which benefits the company in many ways.

3) Humanize the Organization – When an individual works for a large organization- sometimes they fell like nothing more than a number. Enjoying a nice day in the park with your peers, eating a hamburger, and having fun with each other in a game of volleyball are good, real, visceral, feelings which benefit the company- if the company provides them…

4) Celebrate a Job well done – There is nothing worse than a thankless job.

5) Cost savings- by putting forth a company event budget, an organization can save on other aspects of business. Employee retention is one area- but also by having a fun and enjoyable company culture where people look forward to annual, seasonal, quarterly, or other events- a company can shift individuals focus from simple dollar amount increases, so that they will see the bigger picture of the organization around them. In this respect, working at the organization becomes a way of life- not just a paycheck.

If it is time to plan the company picnic- then we recommend getting started on your planning by calling Clowns Unlimited today. We plan countless picnics, parties, and special events throughout the Portland and Seattle metropolitan areas- and would be honored to host yours!

Company Picnic | Portland Oregon
Planning a company picnic in Portland, Oregon?

So many times we have ended up at events where our client has chosen another provider for different aspects of the event rental items. Many times we end up at a party, event, carnival or festival where we provide the fun- and other providers bring in tables, chairs, tents, and more. We have in many instances seen events fail due to this, and are willing to assist any event planner with achieving a successful event. We understand the commitment that is necessary to achieve successful events.

We can provide all of the rental services and picnic planning solutions

The quality of our rental services which our customers are familiar with is also available when we provide all the rentals for an event. At Clowns Unlimited- we have become much more than an entertainment company. We provide everything for special events- including event planning services, portland company picnic planning, corporate event management, and more.

Event Rental Equipment

We offer all kinds of event rental equipment- backed by our strong customer service, timeliness, and commitment to customer service.

At Clowns Unlimited, we are the Portland and Seattle area’s leading provider of event games, entertainment and event rental services. We are also fast becoming a solution provider for all types of event needs. This means is you need anything for a special event, you can turn to us.

We are quick to assist you, and are happy to be able to provide you with any resources you may need for your upcoming gathering from within our special event planning network. Added to our event industry connections you will also find that our resourcefulness and creativity will play a major factor in achieving your event goals.

Jump Party options in Portland and Seattle

If you are planning a jump party or other special event in the Portland, Oregon or Seattle, Washington areas then you will be glad to have found us here at Clowns Unlimited. We are the premiere choice for any party or event you are planning. Our bounce house, jumping castle, inflatable slide, and other fun entertainment options are available for any jumping party you may find yourself planning.

We travel to all areas for jump party planners, and offer a huge selection of games, entertainment and other fun party rental options for planners of special events throughout the Pacific Northwest.

If you are planning any kind of birthday party, corporate event, company picnic, school carnival or other gathering in the Seattle or Portland areas, Clowns Unlimited is the best choice for your party rental and entertainment needs. We will work tirelessly to entertain your crowd and provide the best customer service you will find.

We are able and willing to help and assist with all phases of your event planning. We can arrange any detail you need. Whetner you are looking for a great venue, amazing catering options, or other event support- we can help. We had one client who needed 1000 towels delivered to her beach party within 24hrs- and we pulled every string we had to get this order processed. Our representatives went to every store in the local area and bought each one out of beach towels.

We take care of our clients and make a commitment to each and every one of them.

Jump Party options

If you are planning jumping party in Portland or in seattle there are a number of great options whihc we have available in our party rental and inflatable games inventory.

Bounce House Rentals – Inflatable Slides – Inflatable Play centers – Combo Units – Interactive games, and much more.

There is truly no end to the games and entertainment options we have available for your jumping party. If we do not have it we will do our best to find it for you!

Inflatable Games and the Summer Picnic

The summer picnic is a time tested and proven way to show employee appreciation. It has even longer been known as a family event which brings people together. Planning a picnic this summer for your office, or even for your family is a great way to increase morale and create some fun in the lives of the people around you.

In today’s world there are a lot of stresses. Inflatable Games help people to forget the day to day stresses that keep us down. Just turning off the TV and getting outside for a picnic will hopefully do something to remove your friends, family, and colleagues from the day to day barrage the media is feeding us.

Yes, the stock market is down- yes the economy is struggling, and yes there is a lot to worry about, but a person or an organization can not let the bad things in this world start to overwhelm the bad. A simple smile is worth so much more to life than any other thing. The bottom line is if the economy crumbles, we will still have to live- and at that point we are still going to have to figure out how to enjoy life.

Summer Picnic – The Basics of Life

When you are at a picnic you get to escape the regular day to day effects. You get to enjoy some fresh air, play a game, enjoy good food, company, and relaxation. At this point in time, it is so important for people in our country to enjoy some time off with friends, family, or colleagues- We need a break. We need a release. We need a laugh!

At our company we specialize in creating smiles. We are smile makers for all kinds of gatherings- from the smallest family picnics, to s ome of the largest company picnic events around. Our inventory of inflatable games is massive- and in it we are sure we can find at least one activity for every person in your group.

When it comes to providing entertainment and games for summer picnics and special events- we can help.

Planning a company picnic from the ground up? It may seem like a daunting task. That’s why Clowns Unlimited is here – with hundreds of choices and and a staff of friendly, creative party planners to help you every step of the way, you can be assured that your Portland company picnic will be an event to remember.

The best way to assure that everything goes smoothly is to begin planning your event far in advance. Here in Portland, July, August, and September are the sunniest, warmest months of the year – and also the busiest when it comes to parties and events! Not only will booking your event well in advance assure that you can make the date you want, it also allows your guests time to make sure that they can attend! And of course, it’s the best way to be sure that you can schedule the rentals, location, and caterers you want during the height of the busy season.

Here at Clowns Unlimited, we know that the venue is an important element of any company picnic. With experience planning parties at parks, event centers, and other locations throughout Portland, we’re here to help! Whether you’re looking for a venue or wanting to host your company picnic on-site, our team is here for you every step of the way – from booking the location to ensuring that your party is well-accommodated with all the necessities.

Catering options for company picnics can vary. Many choices are available, from traditional favorites like burgers, hot dogs, and potato salad, to foods such as steak, salmon and ribs, or even themed and exotic dishes. Carnival snacks like cotton candy, elephant ears, and snow cones can really spice up an event as well! We can also accommodate tight budgets and individual diet restrictions – including vegetarian, vegan, and kosher!

Entertainment is an important part of any successful company picnic. Whether you’re looking to fit a theme or need help planning from the ground up, Clowns Unlimited has everything you’re looking for! We can provide all kinds of music, from live bands to DJs. Looking for other entertainers? We’ll provide your picnic with clowns, costumed characters, and comedians – everything you need to liven up the party! And of course, we have a wide variety of rides – including inflatables, carnival games, casino tables, obstacle courses, and climbing walls! And if you’re looking to make this a family event, Clowns Unlimited provides entertainment for all ages – kids will have a safe and fun time with facepainters, themed bounce houses, and even trackless trains!

Whatever you need to make your event a success, look no further than Clowns Unlimited for all your Portland company picnic needs.

Pool Table Rentals – Billiards Rentals – Table Games and Arcade Games

Renting Pool tables for all types of parties and events to West Coast customers. We specialize in providing large scale fun for corporate parties and events. Our rental options include pool table rentals, video games, air hockey, foosball, shuffleboard, arcade games, nhl ice hockey, and a myriad of other fun options. We even have a western shooting gallery, which is the ideal addition to just about any special event or party!

Renting Pool Tables – A Guide.
We frequently come across customers who want to rent a pool table and have in the past used a local billiards sales and supply house. While in some cases this may be more cost effective than using a rental company like ourselves you can be putting your entire event at risk.

We specialize in providing entertainment and games to parties and events, which means we understand the importance of being on time, on schedule, and providing every detail with flawless execution. We are completing special events on a daily basis and understand the basics, and demand the best from our staff.

We will go the extra mile to make sure your event is handled with extreme precision. It is what we do.

If you want to Rent Pool Tables- please call us today at 503.381.4462!

We rent Photo Booths for parties, trade shows, and special events!

If you are interested in renting one of our Photo booths you can add the photo booth to your wishlist on this page.

Photo Booth Rentals in Portland are available for all types of events- we have seen them to be very popular at:
Company Parties, Trade Shows, Weddings, School Carnivals, Grad Parties, and MORE!

If you are considering a photo booth rental for your next event then we can help. We are proud to offer several instant photography options for special events! Our professional event planners will be glad to work out all the delivery/set up/location details- call us today!

PHOTO EXPERIENCE
We also offer a full instant photo station which prints 5×7 framed photos. We have used this station for all kinds of photo services, customized for specific events:

For example:

Pictures with Santa – Pictures with Mrs. Claus – Pictures with the Easter Bunny – Pictures with the Grinch – Rock Star Dress Up – OR even Pictures on a Harley Davidson with Bikini Girls! The sky is the limit when it comes to using our photo station- it just takes a little imagination to create the background which you like!