A hometown couple has taken the leap to bring the Bitterroot a much needed outlet for the valley’s kids. Brian and Heather Appel own Bitterroot Bouncers, an inflatable bouncy house rental business that up until now has been backyard rentals and festivals. You have probably seen them at Darby Logger Days, Daly Days, Creamery Picnic, Celtic Games, or even the fair. The bright colored fun filled bouncers that bring excitement and entertainment to children of all ages are always a highlight at the local events.
Brian and Heather started Bitterroot Bouncers a year and a half ago with the dream of being able to open an indoor space in the future. With rentals having increased substantially each year, it became clear that there was an obvious need for this service here in the valley.
Heather said, “We hear people say all the time that there’s nothing for the kids to do around here.” With two young children of their own, the Appels could relate. According to Brian, “We are like every other family around here – wanting to provide good, clean, safe fun for our kids. We came across a rare opportunity this summer to move into the old Pottery co-op and Morris honey building, and we took it.”
Since July, they have been feverishly working to remodel the building in order to turn it into the playcenter they have been dreaming of.
On January 1st, they will be opening the doors to their indoor space which will offer year round indoor fun for kids of all ages. They will have six brand new bouncy houses to include a 22′ dual lane slide, two obstacle courses, a carnival themed bouncy, a firetruck, and another smaller bouncy for the little tykes. Brand new couches throughout the space offer parents a relaxing place to comfortably watch their children play while enjoying a coffee or beverage of their choice from the coffee bar.
Even more exciting is the news that they will have two large birthday party rooms available 6 days a week to have your child’s next party. The rooms come fully decorated with all the tableware, and kids and parents will appreciate the generous 2-hour block of time that is included in each party package. The first hour and 15 minutes will be bouncing, followed by the last 45 minutes in the party room. They will have various package sizes and options.
Heather stated, “Another thing we hear all the time from parents is that it is really hard to have options for kids parties here in the valley. Parents are driving to Missoula for swimming, go karts, or trampolines but the time and especially the money they put into having parties in Missoula is neither convenient nor affordable.” Gone are the days of driving cars full of kids to travel to Missoula and spend a fortune on entertainment.
Heather went on to say that “Providing options that allow people to have parties close to home is really important. We want to provide good, clean, safe fun that is both convenient and affordable.”
Bitterroot Bouncers will be open 6 days a week, Tuesday-Sunday, closed on Mondays. They will offer Date Night Drop and Go every Friday and Saturday night from 6 to 9:30 p.m. by reservation. Kids will bounce for two hours before staff put on a movie and popcorn to help wind them down the last hour and a half before parents come get them.
They also have prepaid punch cards for 10 one hour sessions, electronic gift cards, and reloadable gift cards. Just in time for Christmas! And, hey are already taking reservations for birthday parties in the new year.
“We encourage people to call anytime to reserve their party date or to get their gift cards before Christmas comes,” said Heather.
Customers can find Bitterroot Bouncers on 1st street in Hamilton at 806 S. 1st St and their phone number is (406) 203-0033.