Semi-Private events
| frequently asked questions |
When can I host a semi-private event at Walls of Clay?
Semi-private events occur in our party room during open studio hours. To check the availability (dates and times) of semi-private events, click here.
How do I reserve a semi-private event?
You can reserve online; click here.
Is there a fee or deposit required to reserve a semi-private event?
Reservations are required, along with a $100 non-refundable deposit. The deposit will be applied towards the price of the pottery or glass, providing the minimum requirement is purchased ($245 before tax). If your group does not meet the minimum purchase requirement, your deposit of $100 will be converted to a room rental fee and will NOT be applied towards any purchases. No exceptions.
Is my $100 deposit applied towards the event?
Yes, providing that your group reaches the minimum requirement of $245 (before tax) in pottery.
Here is the scoop: we are using our party room for your event rather than hosting a birthday party. This is a great way to guarantee seating during our busy days/season so we require a minimum of $245 in pottery and/or glass during the two-hour event.
If you do not meet the minimum requirement ($245 before tax) during your event, the deposit of $100 will be converted to a room rental charge.
How many people does your party room seat?
Our party room is 12′ x 17′. We can comfortably seat 10 adults (12 kids). And if you don’t mind tight spaces, we can squeeze a few extra in too.
There are two tables with bench seating, each table holds 4 – 6 people (depending on age/size). We also have bar seating in this room for overflow.
What if my group does not reach the minimum of $245 during the two-hour event?
After your guests select their pieces to paint (or glass to fuse) our staff will do a quick courtesy tally to see whether or not you have reached the $245 (before tax) minimum. If you are below, we will let you know the shortage and allow you to paint something in addition, switch a lesser piece for a more expensive one, add-on, etc.
If your group does not meet the minimum purchase requirement, your deposit of $100 will be converted to a room rental fee and will NOT be applied towards any purchases. No exceptions.
What if we need more an two hours for our event.
Simply said, your event cannot go longer than two hours. As with our other policies, we like to be clear and transparent from the beginning. Your event is being held in our party room, which is most likely filled with reservations before and after. We just don’t have the wiggle room to make adjustments.
When do you need a final headcount?
A final headcount is required three (3) business days prior to the party. An email will be sent the Wednesday/Thursday prior to your party date requesting the final headcount. Please check your email and respond. This is an important step so that we are staffed according to the size of your group.
Not everyone on my guest list will want to paint pottery or fuse glass, is this a problem?
We understand there may certain situations when not everyone present will paint pottery or fuse glass. For example, parents of a teen private event may wish to mingle, take pictures, set food up etc. Or the new director of a preschool may wish to spend the 2 hours getting to know his/her staff. In these instances, we will allow up to 2 non-painters/glass fusers at no charge. Any additional non-painters/glass fusers beyond the first 2 will incur a studio fee of $10 per person.
Can we bring in food and or alcohol? If yes, do we need paper goods, cups and utensils?
Yes and Yes! You are welcome to bring in food or alcohol (for makers over 21 years old), though do keep in mind that you have two hours for the event and most of this time will be needed to plan and paint your pieces of pottery. If you opt to bring in food such as snacks and/or dessert, please bring in the needed paper goods, cups, and/or utensils.
The best practice is to keep it simple. We are a working creative art studio rather than an “event” or “meeting” venue. The primary focus of our team and the experience is the creative aspect.
Can I bring in alcohol?
Yes, you are welcome to bring in wine, beer, etc. However, there are a few rules that you need to be aware of. For the most part, these are not our rules, but those of the city of McKinney and TABC…so don’t shoot the messenger! You must be 21 years of age and have identification if asked. An alcohol waiver needs to be signed the night of the event. It’s quick and easy, the verbiage is below for your review. We cannot open your wine, so it would be wise to bring your own corkscrew or bottle opener. While we are happy to pour your paint for you, we do not pour your adult beverages. ASo, yes you can bring in adult beverages but please, drink responsibly – someone is counting on you coming home at the end of the night!
ALCOHOL POLICY/WAIVER (if applicable): I agree that I am 21 years of age or older and will consume my alcoholic beverages responsibly. I release and waive any and all claims or action that may arise against Walls of Clay, LLC, its affiliates, successors or assigns as well as the owner and employees/contractors as a result of anything which occurs before, during or after my session including to but not limited to injury, loss, theft or damage to any person or property.