Meet Gracen Lewis | Character Performer & Owner of Reign Princess Parties
We had the good fortune of connecting with Gracen Lewis and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Gracen, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Starting a business at sixteen was a huge risk, balancing school life and friends on top of trying to run a company has been a bit stressful at times. Starting a business at the start of COVID can be even more of a risk. I started my company in January of 2020 and officially opened for business a week after my seventeenth birthday. I invested all of my birthday money and savings into jump starting Reign Princess Parties, I purchased costumes, wigs, and all party materials needed and dived head first into things.
I was terrified, what if this was a flop? What if no one booked? What if I failed? These thoughts were ones I had daily. My parents were very supportive. They told me this was my decision and my responsibility, and while that meant I was in charge and on my own, they would support me nonetheless. My dad helped me research all of the business logistics while my mom helped me with vocal training, costumes, wig styling and hiring employees. By February of 2021 we had already participated in a local parade, held a fundraiser and toy drive for The Salvation Army, and booked multiple parties.
I started to finally see all my risks pay off, I hired several lovely and talented performers who shared my same passion for performing. I knew it was all worth it after my first party, I saw the way the children’s faces lit up, and their eyes gleamed. The overwhelming joy and happiness that it gave me was indescribable!
Now as we approach our one year anniversary, we’re booking nearly every weekend and have over twenty characters available and multiple performers. We’re working on hosting more fundraisers and charity events this summer and even partnering up with local shelters and hospitals!
Taking risks is hard, especially if there is no reward in sight. But if you work hard and put your heart into it, you can make your dreams come true!
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I think the thing that most sets me apart from other companies is the love and passion I have for becoming the character, and seeing the joy that it brings to the children. From a very young age I loved entertaining and caring for children, and their joy is my joy! Walking into a room and seeing their faces light up is the highlight of my day and brings me so much happiness! It’s not just a job for me, it’s a passion!
It has been challenging to get off the ground as a young business owner, but I have found that word of mouth is a wonderful catalyst for growth. The more parties we booked, the faster word of mouth travelled and the more parties came our way! Staying positive and excited has been the thing that has helped me the most! Having a good attitude is a great path to success!
Reign Princess Parties is so dear to my heart, and each of our performers shares a love and passion for performing and we are dedicated to making each child’s day magical. It’s all about the children! They are the reason we do what we do!
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Legacy West is definitely a fun place to spend the day at! Between the delicious restaurants and fun shops, you can easily have a blast with the family or your best friends! Grandscape, The Dallas Zoo, Stonebriar Mall, Babes Chicken, Barney’s Brunch House, Nerdvana Cafe, The Star and The Railroad are all fantastic ways to spend a week in the DFW area. From shopping to fine dining, any of these selections are sure to make your experience one of a kind.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give the biggest thanks to my parents, especially my mom Lyndee. She has helped me from the very beginning, sacrificing her own time and energy to help me. I can’t forget to also thank my grandparents, extended family and friends! I’d also love to thank my lovely employees who are so dedicated and amazing at what they do. I wouldn’t be able to do any of this without them!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reignprincessparties/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReignPrincessParties/
Other: Email: reignprincessparties@gmail.com
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