For Christianna Youkers, creating magic isn’t just part of the job — it’s a lifelong passion.
The Tempe resident and founder of Happily Ever After Fairy Tale Events is celebrating the 10th anniversary of her enchanting character entertainment business, which brings beloved storybook characters to life at birthday parties, corporate events, community festivals and special productions across the Valley.
“I wanted to create experiences where kids feel like they are stepping right into their favorite story,” said Youkers. “It’s not just about looking the part — it’s about making every interaction feel genuine, magical and full of wonder.”
What began as a side venture while Youkers worked in the veterinary field — and later, in corporate management — has grown into one of the Valley’s most respected character entertainment companies.
Her team includes more than 30 performers who portray a wide range of characters, from classic princesses and fairies to superheroes, villains and mermaids.
One major element that sets Fairytale Events apart is its unwavering commitment to quality. Every costume, wig and signature autograph must meet Youkers’ high standards.
She invests in premium-quality gowns and wigs to ensure her characters look as though they stepped right off the page or screen.
Her performers also receive extensive training not just in performance, but in fully embodying the characters — from memorizing princesses’ backstories to staying true to the character during improv-style interactions with young guests — all to deliver an unforgettable experience for families.
In addition to this training, Youkers carefully curates her cast from the Valley’s thriving theater scene, selecting talented vocalists, dancers and actors who often perform leading roles in musicals and productions across greater Phoenix.
“They are true triple threats,” said Youkers. “At any given time, many of them are starring in local shows while also working for Fairytale Events.”
Their experience performing in major productions sharpens their ability to command attention, tell a story and create magical, immersive moments — skills that shine just as brightly at a child’s birthday party as they do on a professional stage.
“Our cast members aren’t just showing up in costume,” said Youkers. “They’re trained in singing, movement, storytelling and arts and crafts. We want every child to walk away feeling like they just met the real Cinderella or Elsa — not a copy, but the real thing.”
That commitment to excellence is what keeps performers like Sapphire Nova, a Fairytale Events cast member of six years, coming back.
“Christianna pours so much care into every detail, no matter how small,” said Nova, who performs as Elsa, Snow White, Rapunzel and others. “At last year’s Halloween Villain event, she didn’t just hand out candy — she made sure each villain had treats that matched their character.
“Cruella gave out cookies and cream bars because they looked like her signature black-and-white spots. It’s that level of thoughtfulness that makes our events unforgettable. She motivates all of us to dream bigger, perform better and keep raising the bar.”
Lily Norton, who joined the cast just over a year ago, said the company’s quality stands out — both on stage and behind the scenes.
The team at Happily Ever After Fairy Tale Events includes, from left, Back Row: Rosie Hall, Autumn Stanley, Lily Norton, Makenzie Massey; Middle standing: Cammie Reeder, Savannah Castillo, Shayla Forero, Sedona Schnebly, Baylie Soto, Giselle Sanchez Wilson; Middle sitting: Lainey Glazebrook, Sammi Merkley, Sapphire Nova, Saniya Sapakie, Kallie Gardner; Front row: Emma Coxon, Savannah Springer.
“Customers love Fairytale Events for the incredible attention to detail and variety of experiences, but as cast members, we stay because of Christianna,” said Norton, who performs as Elsa, Belle and Aurora.
“She leads with heart, supports us fully and truly makes this a place where magic happens, for kids and for us.”
In addition to private parties, Youkers and her team are gearing up for a busy season of public events designed especially for families and children.
Cast members will make a special pop-up appearance at Phoenix Fan Fusion June 6–8 at the Phoenix Convention Center. Guests can expect surprise meet-and-greets and photo ops with some of Fairytale Events’ most iconic characters.
On July 27, the company will present a musical stage production at Fuse Performing Arts in Gilbert. Called “Magic of a Wish” the show features a cast of singing princesses, highlighting the company’s signature blend of theatrical performance and fairytale magic.
Then, on Oct. 12, the company will host the Fairytale Ball at the Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs Resort in Phoenix. The event will offer families a chance to meet dozens of favorite characters, dance, enjoy interactive storytelling and participate in themed activities.
To celebrate the Halloween season, families can enjoy two spirited events at Fuse Performing Arts.
On Oct. 19, Fairytale Events will host the Descendants Halloween Dance Party, featuring fan-favorite villains like Mal, Evie and Maleficent. The festivities continue on Oct. 26 with Witches’ Night Out, starring the Sanderson Sisters, Elphaba, Luna Lovegood and other beloved witches.
“We’re really excited for these events,” said Youkers. “They give families a chance to experience the magic on a larger scale, with live singing, dancing, games and so much more.”
Youkers also makes it a priority for Fairytale Events to stay involved in the community, with her team volunteering regularly at charity events benefiting children facing serious illnesses or hardships.
For example, the company is hosting a superhero breakfast with HopeKids on June 6.
“Our cast members love giving back,” she said. “It’s an honor to be part of these kids’ special moments, especially when they need a little extra magic.”
Looking ahead, Youkers has big dreams for the next chapter. Having recently acquired another character company, she’s now working toward a long-term goal of opening a brick-and-mortar venue where families can host parties and attend special events year-round.
“It’s been such a rewarding journey,” said Youkers. “Every event we do, every little smile we see — it reminds me why we started this. And after 10 years, I still feel like we’re just getting started.”
For more information about upcoming events or booking character experiences: fairytaleeventsaz.com.
