Drums of the Pacific - Houston Luau Event Planner

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule a walk-through before the event, to map out the logistics beforehand?
  • Absolutely! We always recommend planning to make sure we have everything in place exactly the way you want it.
  • We only require having your date confirmed to schedule a walk-through.
  • If you are not ready to have your date confirmed but would like to talk about the logistics, you may send pictures or videos of the venue/space of the event. We will then give you our best insight through your eyes.
What is the catering attire?
  • Formal catering style, staff will wear black slacks with white button up long sleeve.
  • Luau informal style, staff will wear black slacks and an Aloha button up short sleeve shirt.
If you are catering for my event, what time do I expect you to arrive for the setup?
  • We would like to arrive 3-4 hours prior to your guest’s arrival.
If we have leftover food, can we keep it?
  • Absolutely! We will pack all your leftover food in aluminum trays and leave them for you and your guests.
If catering is priced by per person, but I have a mixture of adults and children. Do I still count the children too?
  • Yes, but we always recommend counting 2 children (ages 4-10) to equal 1 adult.
  • Ages 0-4 you do not need to take into account into the price.
What is your delivery and travel cost within the Houston surrounding area?
  • $50 applies to all delivery and travel costs.
    – In addition to 30+miles from DOTP headquarters are .59 cents per mile round trip.
    – In addition to 50+miles from DOTP headquarters are $1.18 per mile round trip.
Are the performers’ costumes appropriate for my party?
  • In the Polynesian culture, our costumes are usually revealing but tasteful. But we do understand that modesty is very important in other events. By request, we do offer conservative modesty in our dancers and performances. Our ladies will be covered in a black covered tube top, lengths from chest to hip. Our men will be covered as well in black t-shirt to avoid being bare chested.
What are your requirements for entertainment setup?
  • Power outlets (110v 20 amp) within 25’ of the performance area.
  • Adequate lighting.
  • Clear performance area. Our dancers are performing bare feet. Area must be free from debris, sharp objects, wood damage, broken glass, excessive heat from sun exposure. No Pet feces must be present on or near performance area.
  • DOTP staff, band, and performers must have protection of exposure of all weather elements. Heat/cold, rain, or wind that may cause an interference of proper performance will not be accepted. A covered/shelter space must be provided. No exemptions.
I see that you require a dressing room when having entertainment services. What if I don’t have a dressing room near the stage area available?
  • For an additional $50, DOTP can provide a 10×10 pop up tent, with wall covers, for privacy for the performer’s frequent changes during the duration of the show.
What is an appropriate place for the performers to change in?
  • Any private space that is near the performance area will be appropriate.
  • No public restroom that is shared with guests. This is due to our performers having their costumes and belongings in the space. It will be set out unoccupied, while they’re on stage.
  • Ex. Garage, unused room, a hidden space with a partition will suffice.
Can I just hire a fire performer?
  • Yes, you can but our fire performer is an authentic cultural specialty and is priced accordingly. His performance ONLY lasts a max of 3 mins. Our performer is recommended to be used with our entertainment packages for the best value.
What is the service charge for?
  • The service charge applies to all our luau services except entertainment, unless combined with a package deal. This pays for our staff labor and travel costs.
What is an amusement tax?
  • Sale tax is due to the sale of an admission to an amusement service. For the state of Texas at 8.25%.
Is gratuity required?
  • It is suggested but never required. We keep gratuity at 18%.
What is required to get my event confirmed?
  • A signed luau agreement with your order of services with a non-refundable 25% deposit to hold your event date.
Cancellations?
  • If you cancel your event, you have forfeited your 25% deposit.
  • If you paid more or all your balance and canceled 10 days prior to your event. 50% beyond the initial paid deposit will be refunded.
What if I want to reschedule?
  • If a request for a reschedule due to personal circumstances, an additional 25% deposit is required to hold a new date.
  • o Due to Texas weather being unreliable. We always recommend that you have a plan B in place.
    – Can we move the event indoors?
    – Do we have proper coverage outside with tents?
    – If on the date of event, DOTP is onsite of the event but unable to move forward. You will forfeit the entirety of the contract total. If you want to reschedule, another 25% deposit is required for the next available date.
  • Due to uncontrolled circumstances such as illness, or death, proof is required and will allow new rescheduled date within the present year at no additional cost for the same initial contracted service.