Bouncin'€™ business opens in Palmer

BY J.J. Harrier

Frontiersman

Name of Business:

Bouncin’ Bears

Owner: Christie Simpson

Address: 7610 Palmer-Wasilla Highway in Palmer

Telephone: 746-7530

Date Opened: Oct. 6, 2007

Web site: Bouncinbears.org.

E-mail address: ksimpson@bouncinbears.org

Q: Where are you from and why did you decide to open your business in the Mat-Su Valley?

A: I’m from Texas originally and moved to Palmer a year ago. We made it through the winter! I was driving around one day and noticed there was just a McDonald’s out here that was the only thing for kids to go to. We had a similar business in Texas that worked really well and decided to open one up in Palmer. So far we’ve had an awesome turnout.

Q: How would you categorize your business?

A: Family/children’s entertainment. There are no teachers in our facility so parents can come in and play with their kids. We have six inflatables and a party room indoors. My husband and I are here to provide help, if needed. All together we have a 54-foot obstacle course, a 16-foot double slide, and two bounce castles, one with a slide. There’s also a mini-obstacle course for toddlers. The padded flooring is cool and we also have a full snack bar. For birthday parties, we fully decorate room and utilize the tables and picnic areas. We supply the napkins, party favors, drinks and invitations, and then clean up and set up. All parents need to do is bring the cake and gifts. The rest we do.

Q: What makes your business different from similar businesses?

A: There are no others here! The kids can go to Wasilla Sports Complex, the McDonald’s and Carl’s Jr., but other than that, there’s no other place in the Valley with our kind of services.

Q: What advice would you give someone wanting to start a new business?

A: Get insurance! It’s outrageous. Of course, get everything in line before you open.

Q: What is your favorite aspect of doing business in the Valley?

A: Watching the kids’ faces when they come in. They’re priceless. The people who have come in are so nice.

Q: What are the hours of operation?

A: 10 a.m. to noon, 1 to 3 p.m. and 4 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. I’m a germaphobe, which is why I close up every two hours. We’re also open on Saturdays, if birthday parties are not booked.

Q: Where do you see the business in five to 10 years?

A: Already talking about expanding into Anchorage and Wasilla in two years. It’s been a great turnout so far. Within the first weeks I had 20 birthdays booked. Come on in and check us out!