Today we’d like to introduce you to Jess Evans.
Hi Jess, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started Polie Party Co in January 2024 after noticing a gap in our community for more personalized and affordable party experiences for kids. In Northern Michigan, especially during the winter months, the options for birthday parties can feel pretty limited. Places like Great Wolf Lodge can be very expensive, and other venues like bowling alleys or arcades can feel a bit chaotic and impersonal. I saw an opportunity to create something that felt more magical, intentional, and memorable for families.
Interestingly, the business started in a very simple and serendipitous way. One day I was at Target and noticed the $1–$5 section was full of tea party items. It honestly felt like a sign. I stocked up, invited a few princesses to join, and hosted my very first princess tea party. It ended up being an incredible success and really confirmed that families in our area were craving something different.
What makes our parties unique is that they’re thoughtfully curated, intentional, and accessible. I want families to feel like they’re stepping into a magical experience without having to spend thousands of dollars. Every detail is designed to feel special while still being approachable and fun.
As a business owner, the thing I’m most proud of has actually surprised me a little. Of course the kids have an amazing time, but what I’ve really loved seeing are the connections that happen between parents—especially moms. At many traditional party venues, everything can feel rushed or chaotic, and there isn’t much opportunity to connect. At our events, parents often end up chatting, relaxing, and building friendships while their kids enjoy the experience. Creating those little moments of community has been one of the most rewarding parts of building this business.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Building Polie Party Co has definitely come with its challenges. Starting something new in a smaller community means you sometimes have to introduce people to an idea before they fully understand it. Creating a more curated, intentional party experience is a little different from the typical birthday party options, so part of the journey has been showing families what’s possible.
Like many small business owners, I also wear every hat—from planning and sourcing supplies to marketing, setup, and hosting the events themselves. There’s a lot that happens behind the scenes to make each party feel seamless and magical.
But those challenges have been incredibly motivating. Each event helps build trust within the community, and every successful party reinforces the vision I had when I started. Seeing the excitement from kids and the appreciation from parents reminds me that creating meaningful, memorable experiences for families is absolutely worth the work.
We’ve been impressed with Polie Party Co., but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Polie Party Co specializes in creating thoughtfully curated party experiences for kids and families. Our goal is to bring a sense of magic and intention to celebrations while keeping them approachable and affordable for parents.
What started with themed experiences like princess tea parties has quickly grown into a broader offering that includes interactive parties and specialty rentals. Today, we offer unique concepts like plush-making parties where kids create their own stuffed animals, as well as party rentals such as our kids’ charcuterie cart, which adds a fun and interactive element to celebrations.
What sets us apart is the level of care and detail that goes into every event. Instead of the typical fast-paced, chaotic party environment, our experiences are designed to feel immersive, creative, and memorable. Kids get to step into a themed experience, while parents can relax, enjoy the moment, and connect with other families.
What I’m most proud of brand-wise is the sense of community these events create. While the kids are having fun, parents often end up forming connections and friendships as well. It turns a birthday party into something bigger—a shared experience that brings families together.
At the end of the day, Polie Party Co. is about creating magical memories while making celebrations easier and more joyful for parents.
How do you define success?
For me, success isn’t just about growing a business—it’s about creating something meaningful for the community. When I see kids light up during a party or parents tell me how special the experience felt for their family, that’s when I know I’m doing something right.
Success also means building something that continues to evolve. What started as a simple idea for themed parties has grown into a business that offers interactive experiences and unique party rentals, and it’s exciting to see how much it continues to develop.
Most importantly, success means creating a business that brings people together. If families walk away from an event with great memories, new friendships, and a feeling that the celebration was truly special, then I consider that a success.
Pricing:
- Charm Parties starting at $150 for 6 guests
- Princess Tea Parties starting at $225 for 6 guests
- Plush Pal Parties starting at $240 for 6 guests
- Charcuterie Cart starting at $15 per person
- Bounce House Rentals starting at $150
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.poliepartyco.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poliepartyco
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1KEgoNXxav/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@polie.party.co
