Wow wow wow! I am sure the Plymouth Christmas Barbican Light Switch On gets more busy each year! Kaylie and I started to set up outside the old glass works / Edinburgh Woolen Mill at 10:30am. We had people asking for face paints already even though we didn't officially start until 12:15! With the van finally parked and a bit of maneuvering of Kaylie's car we were ready to go.
Kaylie had already started early as the family had been waiting a while already. My first customer was the wonderful Ellen from Plymouth City Council Events. I had a chance to practice my poinsettia eye design I've been practicing.
I'd set up a two chair system, whilst one face base was drying I was working on the other. As a face painter its a fine line between doing enough for it to be effective yet quick to get through the line. As such they were not the most detailed designs, but I think everyone was happy? We averaged about 2 minutes per festive face ..Phew!
It wasn't long before the day turned to night and the Grinch, Santa and crew switched the lights on, albeit after a false countdown. I bet the Grinch had something to do with that!
The security, cadets and events crew did a great job of closing the line and politely declining any more customers as our 7 hour shift ended. Every time I do these sort of events I tell myself to take a break. I never do. It's so difficult to walk away when you have a queue a mile long. You feel so guilty for the kids that have been patiently waiting.
Once we'd packed down we had a much needed meal and sit down in one of the local restaurants before finally getting home around 9pm.
For me the most popular requests of the day was the Grinch and Reindeer. No matter how tiring, these events are some of the most enjoyable moments of the job. Creating so many smiles in one afternoon/evening is an incredible feeling.
Massive thanks to Kaylie for her her work, Rebecca and Ellen and everyone involved in making this event possible from the Waterfront partnership, City Council, PL1 Events and all their relevant crews. But mostly to you the public who make it happen. Thank you <3
Creating a smile
Cher and Kaylie Funky Punky
More info here: https://www.visitplymouth.co.uk/whats-on/barbican-lights-switch-on-p2140763
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