A TALENTED Somerset teenager has transformed her love of performing into a thriving business, bringing fairy-tale magic to children's parties across the region.
Sixteen-year-old Natalia Carey launched Natalia's Magical Princess Parties after an unexpected demand for appearances following her role as Elsa in M.A.D.S.' production of Frozen Junior.
Natalia's mother, Marina, said the idea came about almost by accident when parents began asking whether "Elsa" would be available to attend birthday parties.
"We thought, why not give it a go?" she said. "From those first few enquiries it has just grown and grown."
Since then, Natalia has appeared at numerous events, offering a range of princess and character experiences for children. Packages include singing, storytelling, games, crafts, glitter tattoos and photo opportunities.
Marina accompanies her daughter to events, helping with transport, set-up and running activities.
Performing has long been a major part of Natalia's life. She has been involved in local theatre productions for several years and previously helped younger performers at Mini M.A.D.S.
Most recently, she appeared in Shrek the Musical, where she played the Sugar Plum Fairy and also performed as Gingy - using a puppet.
Marina said she is particularly proud of what her daughter has achieved while balancing her studies.
16-year-old launches successful princess party business in Somerset
"What makes me especially proud is that she's doing all of this at just 16," she said. "She's just finished her GCSEs and is going on to college, where she is hoping to study Medical Science."
You can view Natalie's website here - Natalie's princess parties
The income Natalia earns through the business is being saved towards future goals, including driving lessons and further education.
What began as a handful of requests has continued to expand, with the recent launch of the business's own website marking another significant milestone.
The venture is also broadening beyond birthday parties, with special character-themed activity sessions planned during school holidays and half terms.
Following successful events over the summer, Natalia and her team are organising Halloween character events for families in the Dulverton and Minehead areas.
They are also running a children's character-design and colouring competition, with the aim of becoming more involved in the local community.
Marina, who works in a school and helps run M.A.D.S. in Minehead alongside her sister, said community engagement is at the heart of the business.
"We're trying to make the business about more than just parties and get involved with local children and families where we can," she said.
Natalia's Magical Princess Parties can also be found on Facebook and Instagram, where photos and videos showcase the young entrepreneur's growing range of character performances.
As Natalia prepares for college, her story highlights how a passion for theatre and performance has blossomed into a successful small business, bringing a touch of magic to children across Somerset.
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