Live characters put spin on parties

Artful Twist has clients across North Alabama. "No matter what I am buying, making, planning or using, I love for it to have an artful twist," Guthrie said.

Andrea Guthrie “uniquely celebrates life’s adventures” with Artful Twist, her business that stages character parties, along with social events for art, calligraphy and engraving.

“We have a roster of princesses, superheroes and storybook characters to entertain,” Guthrie said. Occasionally, companies ask for actors to portray their mascots or appear at costumed events.

Her staff members “are young people who enjoy children — college and high school students” who work with youth. “They are awesome young people who are the essence of the character … not just someone who fills the costume. We love providing wholesome entertainment for families and children’s groups.”

Guthrie trains her actors for character work. Some have worked in theme parks.

Arriving at a party, the character and handler “join in whatever the host has going on,” Guthrie said. “Our entertainment package offers non-stop activities with games, crafts, music, singing, dancing and encouragement. Pictures and personal visiting are a must.”

Brittney Jones

Guthrie conducts workshops for basic calligraphy and decor lettering. “I offer art parties for children, families or adults … and events that emphasize imagination and creativity. It might be painting on canvas, three-dimensional art or sculpting with clay, wire, wood or mixed media,” she said. Some art parties create accessories for a baby’s nursery or a wedding couple.

Artful Twist has clients across North Alabama. “No matter what I am buying, making, planning or using, I love for it to have an artful twist,” Guthrie said.

Guthrie has been an event planner professionally for 10 years and volunteered for 20. She formerly owned Zazzy’s gift shop in Huntsville, where she first integrated characters into events.

Guthrie has planned events for thousands of people, community and non-profit groups, schools and military installations. She combined this real-world experience with her degree in business management and marketing to launch her business.

Guthrie also provides referrals for Connection Christian Tours of Tuscumbia. She has two daughters: Lauren, 25, of Nashville and Brittany, 23, of Charleston, S.C.

For more information, call 256-679-8381, send email to artfultwist11@gmail.com or visit Facebook/Artfultwist or Twitter.