About

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of clown is Wingnut?

Wingnut is a European Auguste Clown. This means that she is a character clown who wears a minimal amount of make-up. Wingnut's character is that of an innocent, country clown. Since she was raised in a barn...uh...on a farm...she loves chickens. She has a pet hen named Tilly.

What kind of events has Wingnut appeared?

All kinds! Wingnut has been clowning about since 2002! She has been privileged to attend fairs, festivals, numerous birthdays, graduations, corporate events, business openings, and a wedding. Wow! (We don't think she's been to a baby shower yet.)

What services does Wingnut offer?

Wingnut offers face painting, balloon twisting, storytelling, and games in a non-competitive, friendly atmosphere. Be sure to let her know how many children will be at the event and she can let you know how many activities can be performed in the allotted time.

How far in advance should I make my reservation for services?

The sooner the better to insure your date will be available. Wingnut typically books events 4-12 weeks in advance. The best advice we can offer is to call and reserve early. We do accept last minute calls and will help you if we can.

What forms of payment do you accept?

Payments are collected on the day of the event, before start time, by certifiable funds: Cash, money orders, or bank certified checks. We accept personal checks from local area clients only. Checks must be made payable to Antonia Smith or Wingnut the Clown.

Can Wingnut perform at our home? How much space is needed?

Yes, of course! As for space, make sure that the location for the performance is free and clear of any hazards and that children will be able to sit at least 4-5 feet in diameter.

What do you need from me?

Wingnut needs round-trip tickets to Hawaii - no, make that one way...and a cheeseburger and fries.

Just Kidding! Actually, the following would be helpful:

For parking needs: A spot close to the entrance is great. Clowns get tired too!

For face painting: Access to fresh water.

For balloons: A cool, dry place is nice. Wingnut uses latex balloons and latex does funny stuff in extreme hot and cold conditions.

For anything involving music: Access to an electrical source.

For Tilly the Hen: Fresh veggies would be nice. Wingnut likes them too. Actually, Tilly's a puppet and she only comes for storytelling.

For any outdoor event during the summer: Shade under a tree or tent. This is very important! Summer is hot and heat stroke is dangerous to the entertainer as well as the children.

Gee...that wasn't so bad! Basically, once you've chosen Wingnut for your event, your entertainment needs should be filled. Wingnut does her best to make sure that you and your guests can sit back and relax!

Is face painting safe?

We only use professional products that are FDA approved for face painting and wash off with mild soap and water. However, face paints do contain preservatives to help them last...so Wingnut keeps a list of the ingredients with her (from the manufacturer) for those who may have skin allergies. To ensure that our products are also kept clean and sanitized throughout the application process, Wingnut cannot face paint children who may have a cold or infection. We don't want to spread germs!

What about balloons?

Balloons are safe too...when children know the rules. Wingnut always explains the balloon rules at every event too! To ensure that much younger children are kept safe...Wingnut will not hand out balloons to children who are 3 years old or younger. You know how babies love to chew! SAFETY FIRST!

What is the best age for a clown?

Wingnut is a family entertainer and appropriate for children and adults of all ages. However, it is our suggestion that children react better to Wingnut if they know she is coming in advance. Some people are frightened of clowns and prior notice can ensure that your special event runs smoothly and happily. We are happy to send a picture of Wingnut for you to display and you can even make copies for the invitations too.

When are you available?

We offer services 7 days a week, including some holidays. Wingnut is not available on the following dates: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Easter Sunday, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and the last two weeks of July.

Birthday Party Planning Tips

Plan early and, if possible, involve your child in the decision making process. They may be hoping for a particular theme, location or entertainment.

Book early too! Many entertainment facilities and entertainers book in advance. Waiting till the last minute may force you to settle for less or worse...with no entertainment at all.

When seeking an entertainer, ask friends and co-workers who they’ve used or heard about. Party supply stores are wonderful resources as well. Once you've located your entertainment...don't be shy about asking for references or job experience along with pricing and services. An experienced entertainer should be well versed in the services they offer.

There’s an old adage that says “You get what you pay for.” There is some truth to this but then again, how can you be sure? Rule of Thumb: Avoid the extremes of too low and too high pricing for comparable services. Shop around and get an “average.” Sadly, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Don’t over-extend yourself and your finances. Work within your budget and time frame. You will feel much more comfortable with your decision, overall expectations and ultimate satisfaction.

Always have a plan “B.” If for some reason your entertainer can not make your event and no alternate is available. Have a handy list of activities you can rely on just in case.

While your child should be the star of the show, make sure the other children don’t feel left out. A good entertainer should acknowledge your child’s special day but should also avoid creating an overly competitive or resentful atmosphere.

Schedule the timing of your entertainment for 15-30 minutes after the scheduled start time of your event. This allows time for stragglers.

MOST IMPORTANTLY!!! Have fun while planning and hosting your party. Odds are you are doing this for the people you love and care about. Enjoy the moments of laughter and joy and let there be nothing but fond memories remaining when the day is done.

Hugs & Giggles!

~ Wingnut

Wingnut the Clown Helpful Information
	Frequently Asked Questions What kind of clown is Wingnut? Wingnut is a European Auguste Clown. This means that she is a character clown who wears a minimal amount of make-up. Wingnut's character is that of an innocent, country clown. Since she was raised in a barn...uh...on a farm...she loves chickens. She has a pet hen named Tilly. What kind of events has Wingnut appeared? All kinds! Wingnut has been clowning about since 2002! She has been privileged to attend fairs, festivals, numerous birthdays, graduations, corporate events, business openings, and a wedding. Wow! (We don't think she's been to a baby shower yet.) What services does Wingnut offer? Wingnut offers face painting, balloon twisting, storytelling, and games in a non-competitive, friendly atmosphere. Be sure to let her know how many children will be at the event and she can let you know how many activities can be performed in the allotted time. How far in advance should I make my reservation for services? The sooner the better to insure your date will be available. Wingnut typically books events 4-12 weeks in advance. The best advice we can offer is to call and reserve early. We do accept last minute calls and will help you if we can. What forms of payment do you accept? Payments are collected on the day of the event, before start time, by certifiable funds: Cash, money orders, or bank certified checks. We accept personal checks from local area clients only. Checks must be made payable to Antonia Smith or Wingnut the Clown. Can Wingnut perform at our home? How much space is needed? Yes, of course! As for space, make sure that the location for the performance is free and clear of any hazards and that children will be able to sit at least 4-5 feet in diameter. What do you need from me? Wingnut needs round-trip tickets to Hawaii - no, make that one way...and a cheeseburger and fries. Just Kidding! Actually, the following would be helpful: For parking needs: A spot close to the entrance is great. Clowns get tired too! For face painting: Access to fresh water. For balloons: A cool, dry place is nice. Wingnut uses latex balloons and latex does funny stuff in extreme hot and cold conditions. For anything involving music: Access to an electrical source. For Tilly the Hen: Fresh veggies would be nice. Wingnut likes them too. Actually, Tilly's a puppet and she only comes for storytelling. For any outdoor event during the summer: Shade under a tree or tent. This is very important! Summer is hot and heat stroke is dangerous to the entertainer as well as the children. Gee...that wasn't so bad! Basically, once you've chosen Wingnut for your event, your entertainment needs should be filled. Wingnut does her best to make sure that you and your guests can sit back and relax! Is face painting safe? We only use professional products that are FDA approved for face painting and wash off with mild soap and water. However, face paints do contain preservatives to help them last...so Wingnut keeps a list of the ingredients with her (from the manufacturer) for those who may have skin allergies. To ensure that our products are also kept clean and sanitized throughout the application process, Wingnut cannot face paint children who may have a cold or infection. We don't want to spread germs! What about balloons? Balloons are safe too...when children know the rules. Wingnut always explains the balloon rules at every event too! To ensure that much younger children are kept safe...Wingnut will not hand out balloons to children who are 3 years old or younger. You know how babies love to chew! SAFETY FIRST! What is the best age for a clown? Wingnut is a family entertainer and appropriate for children and adults of all ages. However, it is our suggestion that children react better to Wingnut if they know she is coming in advance. Some people are frightened of clowns and prior notice can ensure that your special event runs smoothly and happily. We are happy to send a picture of Wingnut for you to display and you can even make copies for the invitations too. When are you available? We offer services 7 days a week, including some holidays. Wingnut is not available on the following dates: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Easter Sunday, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and the last two weeks of July. Birthday Party Planning Tips Plan early and, if possible, involve your child in the decision making process. They may be hoping for a particular theme, location or entertainment. Book early too! Many entertainment facilities and entertainers book in advance. Waiting till the last minute may force you to settle for less or worse...with no entertainment at all. When seeking an entertainer, ask friends and co-workers who they’ve used or heard about. Party supply stores are wonderful resources as well. Once you've located your entertainment...don't be shy about asking for references or job experience along with pricing and services. An experienced entertainer should be well versed in the services they offer. There’s an old adage that says “You get what you pay for.” There is some truth to this but then again, how can you be sure? Rule of Thumb: Avoid the extremes of too low and too high pricing for comparable services. Shop around and get an “average.” Sadly, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t over-extend yourself and your finances. Work within your budget and time frame. You will feel much more comfortable with your decision, overall expectations and ultimate satisfaction. Always have a plan “B.” If for some reason your entertainer can not make your event and no alternate is available. Have a handy list of activities you can rely on just in case. While your child should be the star of the show, make sure the other children don’t feel left out. A good entertainer should acknowledge your child’s special day but should also avoid creating an overly competitive or resentful atmosphere. Schedule the timing of your entertainment for 15-30 minutes after the scheduled start time of your event. This allows time for stragglers. MOST IMPORTANTLY!!! Have fun while planning and hosting your party. Odds are you are doing this for the people you love and care about. Enjoy the moments of laughter and joy and let there be nothing but fond memories remaining when the day is done. Hugs & Giggles! ~ Wingnut
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