About Us
Palace Proprietor, *Queen* Patti O’Connor is delighted to be a part of this great Durham Community.
After working for the City of Toronto, Department of Parks and Recreation for 19 yrs as a children’s dance choreographer and program director, Patti single-handedly established the Riverdale Rainbow Centre; an inner-city sanction in the lower Riverdale/Leslieville area that catered to children in the community for 10 yrs, through offering a variety of programs in drama, dance, and the arts to children, all while working full-time at the prestigious Mayfair Lakeshore Fitness and Raquet Club. The Riverdale Rainbow Centre was about giving back to the Community and teaching Children that no matter how small they were…they could make a Big Difference. We contributed to Food Banks, Shelters, Children’s Charities and independent families in need. It was an incredible experience for all involved.
in 2008, Patti relocated to Ajax, and was at it once again. What once was a simple coffee shop was transformed into the Fairytale Palace; providing a safe, creative environment that nurtured children’s creativity and imagination. With a background in dance, recreation and fitness for over 25 years, and being a mother herself to Jeffrey (24 yrs) and Kylea (9 yrs), Patti understands the importance of integrating safe, fun activities into her children’s programming.
"I have devoted over 30 yrs of my life to sharing in the lives of children through the arts & recreation; helping to build their confidences, while encouraging them to follow their dreams. I have enjoyed every single moment and if I have encouraged and helped just one child and made a difference, then I have lived a good life. My personal motto is; "Children are like life….they are both too short".
Patti truly understands the importance of Community involvement and making a difference, at any age. That’s why her preference is to partner with other local businesses in the area and why many of her programs emphasize being environmentally and socially responsible. The Riverdale Rainbow Centre was based on performances for a cause and children helped to raise money for local charities such as The Red Door and Nellies Shelters, Toronto and St. Anne’s food banks, The Geneva Centre for Children with Autism and the Bloorview Kids Rehab Centre for children surviving cancer. Participants as young as 2 yrs old were taught that through their efforts, they too could make a difference.
The Fairytale Palace was her dream come true. It was a space where children and adults could live out their childhood dreams. A cool little shop built by friends, with Love. It wasn’t big but big enough to make an impact on that special occasion. Situated right in the heart of Old Pickering Village, in the Courtyard, where parking is ample and the charm is comforting, we invited you to visit the Fairytale Palace and see for yourself that dreams really do come true….and they did for many little hearts.
LETTER FROM THE OWNER – PATTI O’CONNOR
Effective March 1st, 2011, The Fairytale Palace closed at the Old Kingston Road, courtyard location. It was an incredible 2.5 yrs of wonderful parties, camps, and special events and I wish to thank every child and parent for being a huge part of the magical experiences we have all shared. The DVD’s we made together are wonderful keepsakes that set my business apart from other party venues and I have loved creating those memories for you all. Check out our Youtube account to see some of the great videos we have created. Now there is a DVD included in some of our home parties or add it on….it’s a great keepsake..
The Fairytale Palace will continue to offer In-home Parties with Princess hostesses and more. As well…Camps may be offered pending a new location so please check back for information on my exciting creative camps. I am available for in home creative dvd projects; Spa parties, Sweet 16, Baby’s 1st birthday and so much more. Currently I am seeking a new location or perhaps to share space with a child care facility/daycare etc so would welcome any offers or suggestions. I am also available for on-call childcare, emergency babysitting, overnight or holiday childcare so feel free to contact me for creative, responsible & caring help whenever you need it.
Thank you again for your support and patronage, I sincerely appreciated the opportunities to share in your children’s development and look forward to whatever the next chapter in life holds for me.
-Patti
