Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayla Gavigan.
Hi Kayla, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Once Upon A Party was founded by Kayla Gavigan, a lifelong performer, artist, and dreamer who believes in the power of storytelling to create lasting joy. With a background in performance arts and formal studies in production and performance at Texas State University, Kayla blended her love of creativity, theater, and family entertainment into a vision for something truly special.
In 2014, she brought that vision to life with the founding of Once Upon A Party. What began with just two cast members and a handful of costumes has grown into a talented team of nearly 100 performers, artists, teachers, parents, students, stylists, costumers, and more, all united by one mission: to bring magic to life, one experience at a time.
Today, Kayla leads the company alongside her husband, Matthew Gavigan, with support from their greatest little inspiration, their daughter Aliza Quinn, and their loyal pup, Odin. Together, their family believes deeply in creating joyful memories, cherishing imagination, and celebrating the magic found in everyday moments.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has definitely not always been smooth. One of our biggest challenges came in 2020 during the COVID-19 shutdowns. As a business rooted in live, in-person experiences, we had to completely rethink how we could still bring joy and magic to families in a time of isolation and uncertainty.
We got creative quickly. We put our costuming skills to use by handcrafting character-themed masks that were both fun and functional. We also launched our Virtual Magic Pass, a private subscription group where families received daily content including live and pre-recorded videos, story-times, singalongs, and themed digital activities. It became a lifeline of fun and connection for so many during a really hard time.
It wasn’t easy, but that season taught us how to adapt and innovate without losing the heart of what we do. We learned that even when the world feels upside down, a little magic can still go a long way!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Once Upon A Party is a premium character entertainment company serving families and events across Texas. We specialize in creating high-quality, storybook-style experiences that are immersive, magical, and deeply memorable. From birthday parties and tea parties to community festivals and custom events, our professionally trained cast brings beloved characters to life through heartfelt interaction, theatrical performance, and a strong commitment to detail.
What truly sets us apart is the level of care we put into every aspect of our brand…”from bow to toe” as we like to say! We invest in quality costuming, styling, and performer training so that each appearance feels authentic, elevated, and enchanting. Kids notice every little detail, and so do we.
We’re most proud of the reputation we’ve built for consistently delivering magic with heart. Our events aren’t just “appearances”; they’re experiences rooted in connection, joy, and storytelling. Whether it’s a quiet moment at a hospital visit, a grand entrance at a royal ball, or a spontaneous dance party at a festival, our goal is always the same: to make families feel seen, celebrated, and swept into the story.
We want readers to know that when you choose Once Upon A Party, you’re not just booking entertainment. You’re partnering with a passionate team that truly loves what they do and is honored to be part of your most cherished moments.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Excellence, without question. From the very beginning, we’ve held ourselves to a high standard in every detail whether costuming, casting, performance, communication, and guest experience. We believe families can feel the difference when something is done with care, and that commitment to quality has been the foundation of our success.
But it’s not just about looking the part; it’s about heart. Our Cast Members are not only talented but also genuinely kind and thoughtful, creating magical moments that feel personal and real. We’ve built a team that believes in going the extra mile, whether it’s a perfect twirl in a handmade gown or a quiet moment with a shy child who needs a little extra encouragement.
That blend of excellence, intentionality, and heart is what sets us apart; and what keeps families coming back to create more magical moments with us.
Pricing:
- Private Parties start at $295
- Event Entertainment starts at $375
- Braid Bar Service starts at $210
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.myonceuponaparty.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myonceuponaparty?igsh=cHU4dnZraXd5dGZo&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AMa1RhT5x/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@onceuponapartyllc7203?si=K-Wmz4_JCpcDhl_j
