Chances are, if you’ve been to a local princess event or birthday party lately, you’ve met Carole Finn-Weidmann. Carole is a professional film, TV and theatre actress. She is well-known on the North Shore for performing as a storyteller at countless libraries, parties, school assemblies, and in front of hundreds at The Neverland Theatre productions. Her characters are so real that she delights children wherever she goes! We’re thrilled to share Carole’s interview and celebrate her 20+ years as owner of the local business, Parties By Carole.
Where are you from originally and what town do you live in now?
I was born in Beverly but grew up mostly in Manchester-by-the-Sea. I now currently reside in Beverly.
How many children do you have and what are their age(s)?
I have three daughters. Melanie is 24 years old and my twins Sophie and Bridget are 14 years old.
What’s your favorite family activity on the North Shore?
My favorite family activity is going to the beach or playing tennis with the family.
Where’s your favorite place to eat and/or shop on the North Shore?
My favorite place to eat is The Depot Diner and my favorite place to shop is T.J.Maxx.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
People might be surprised to know that I have ADHD. It runs in our family and I consider it to be more of an asset than a disability.
You are the founder and owner of Parties By Carole. Tell us more about your background and how you came up with the concept.
I started Parties By Carole about 22 years ago when I wanted to work part-time while raising my daughter. I combined my theatre/professional acting background with my love of working with children. I also worked in NYC doing birthday parties back in the early 90’s while studying professional acting.
You perform so many well-known characters! Which characters are currently your most popular?
I perform almost 20 different characters. My most popular ones are Elsa from Frozen, Mother Goose and Cat in the Hat.
Which characters are your favorite to perform?
My favorite ones to perform are Elsa, Mrs. Claus and The Real Pocahontas.
Where are some places that people can find you performing locally this year?
The Wenham Teahouse, Honeycomb Cafe, Boxford Town Library and the Wenham Museum
As a working mom and business owner, any tips for balancing work and motherhood?
It is not easy for me to balance work and motherhood. My children are older now and more independent, which helps, but they still need rides and meals to eat! I am very lucky because I have a very supportive and helpful husband as well as my parents who live locally. It takes a village to do both but my family is always my first priority.
What is the best piece of mom advice you ever received?
My best piece of mom advice is, “if my house is messy that means I play with my kids.” Also, “don’t sweat the small stuff.”
What’s your favorite thing to do when you need some “me time”?
My favorite thing to do during “me time” is yoga, crossword puzzles or read a book.
Visit the Parties By Carole website to learn more about Carole’s storytelling and birthday party services and see a full list of characters she performs.