Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend booking as early as possible — ideally 4–8 weeks ahead for standard events and 8–12 weeks ahead for weddings or large parties. Popular dates (bank holidays, school holidays, summer weekends) fill up fast. That said, we always try to accommodate last-minute requests, so it's worth reaching out even if your event is soon.

Once you submit an enquiry via our booking form or contact us directly, we'll send a booking confirmation and invoice by email. Your booking is secured once we receive the non-refundable deposit (50% of the total hire fee).

Yes — we can provisionally hold your date for up to 48 hours while you decide. After that, the date becomes available again. To convert a provisional hold to a confirmed booking, we require the deposit.

Yes, subject to availability. Just get in touch and we'll do our best to accommodate changes. Any additional items will be added to your outstanding balance, due before or on the day of your event.

Yes, delivery, professional setup, and collection are included in all our hire prices. Our team will arrive in advance of your event to ensure everything is ready before your guests arrive, and we'll return at the agreed time to collect and pack down.

We cover London, Essex, and Hertfordshire. Please get in touch to confirm availability for your specific location — a delivery surcharge may apply for events at the outer edges of our service area.

Space requirements vary by item:

• Bouncy Castle: Approx. 5m × 5m (plus 1m clearance on all sides), min. 3m ceiling height for indoor use
• Soft Play Set: Approx. 4m × 4m
• Bouncy Balloon Globe: Approx. 3m × 3m

Please ensure the area is clear of sharp objects, furniture, and overhead hazards. We\'ll carry out a safety check on arrival before setting up.

Most of our equipment requires access to a standard UK mains socket (240V). Inflatables need a continuous power supply to keep the blower running. Please ensure adequate access to power sockets near the setup area. We carry extension leads but cannot run cables across public walkways.

A non-refundable deposit of 50% of the total hire fee is required to confirm your booking. Once the deposit has been paid, the remaining balance (full payment) is due two weeks before your event date. If you need more time, an extension may be agreed with our admin team — in which case full payment must be received no later than 7 days prior to the event date.

We accept bank transfer (BACS), PayPal, and card payments. Full payment details are included on your invoice. We do not currently accept cash on the day.

All prices listed on our website are inclusive of any applicable taxes. Your invoice will clearly show a full breakdown.

Yes — all food and drink machine hires (popcorn, candy floss, slush, and waffle) include a uniformed attendant to operate the machine throughout your event. All consumables listed in the package are also included.

Cancellation charges are applied as follows:

• More than 28 days before the event: Loss of deposit only
• 14–28 days before the event: 75% of the total hire fee
• Less than 14 days before the event: 100% of the total hire fee

All cancellations must be made in writing to info@nxtchapterevents.com.

Our equipment can operate in light rain, but we reserve the right to cancel or delay setup in high winds (above 24 mph), heavy rain, or unsafe conditions. In such cases, we will work with you to reschedule. Inflatables must not be used outdoors in winds exceeding 24 mph (Beaufort Scale 5). We do not offer refunds for weather-related cancellations unless the risk is deemed to be wholly on our side.

Yes — subject to availability, we are happy to reschedule your booking with at least 14 days' notice at no additional charge. Rescheduling with less than 14 days' notice may incur a £50 administration fee.

All our inflatables are fully insured and covered by public liability insurance. Equipment suitability and operating limits will be confirmed before booking and must comply with the manufacturer's instructions and current safety standards. Safety certificates are available on request where applicable.

Age limits, maximum user weight, and simultaneous user capacity vary by model and will be confirmed before booking. Adults must not use inflatables unless specifically agreed in advance. A nominated responsible adult must supervise users at all times.

Cold spark machines are generally suitable for indoor use. Specific machine capabilities, fuel type, and operating limits will be confirmed before booking and must comply with the manufacturer's instructions. We recommend discussing cold spark use with your venue in advance, as some venues have specific policies. We carry out a venue risk assessment before use.

Clients are responsible for any damage caused to hired equipment through misuse, negligence, or failure to follow our usage guidelines. Fair wear and tear is accepted. In the event of damage, repair or replacement costs will be charged at the market rate. We strongly recommend ensuring your event venue has appropriate public liability insurance in place.

Yes — most of our equipment can be used outdoors, including inflatables, food machines, spark machines, and the photo booth. Inflatables must be set up on flat, clear grass or suitable hard standing (not gravel). Some electrical equipment may require shelter from rain. Please mention your venue type when enquiring so we can advise accordingly.

Trained operators are included with all food and drink machines, spark machines, the CO₂ confetti machine, and the photo booth. Other equipment such as inflatables, soft play, and lighting does not include ongoing staffing — these items are supervised by your own nominated responsible adult.

We\'d love to hear from you. Reach us via:

• Email: info@nxtchapterevents.com
• Phone / WhatsApp: 07405 280 264
• Facebook: facebook.com/nxtchapterevents

We typically respond within a few hours during business hours (Mon–Sat, 9am–7pm).