By Erica Thomas, managing editor
TRUSSVILLE — A local business that works to bring smiles on the faces of children made drastic changes to continue its mission.
Royal Celebrations offers party services for children. Trussville sisters Madison and MaKenzie Ward dress up as Disney princesses and visit children for parties. The young women have also served at Children’s of Alabama, visiting hospitalized children.
Over the past two weeks, parties have not been an option because of the coronavirus outbreak. Dianne Ward, Madison and MaKenzie’s mother, said they had to think outside of the box.
“We can’t do parties,” said Ward. “But we want to give back, so we are doing these FaceTime calls.”
Ward said instead of charging for the video calls, they send a link to parents to donate to the Children’s Miracle Network.
“They can give what they can and if they can’t, that’s fine,” said Ward. “But really they have been giving.”
Madison and MaKenzie take turns dressing up and making calls. Ward said it takes about an hour to get into character as Ariel, Jasmine, Belle, Cinderella, Elsa, Anna or Rapunzel. The Ward sisters are scheduling calls between online classes.
“It’s the sweetest, most rewarding thing,” added Ward. “I just love that it’s blessing us and the moms and the kids and it’s blessing Children’s Hospital. Only God could’ve given us this idea.”
In the videos, the princesses sing, read books and talk to the children.
“We’ve had the sweetest reactions,” explained Ward. “We have had some read their prayer books, or just talk about life and what they’re doing. They have sweet little conversations. It’s precious.”
Royal Celebrations is also encouraging children during the coronavirus outbreak, by reminding them how important it is to wash their hands.
For more information on Royal Celebrations, or to book a FaceTime or Skype conversation, call (205) 914-2229.