Meet Caroline Don | Mermaid Performer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Caroline Don and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Caroline, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I had worked for several entertainment companies starting in college, and throughout those years of building my skills as a performer, I always thought about things I would do differently if I had my own business. In 2022, I left the company I had been working for and decided it was time to start the journey into building my own. It was definitely quite the process, but worth it. I’m able to be part of the change I want to see in my industry which is priceless.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is performing as a real life mermaid, both in and out of the water. I’ve done everything from swim shows in aquariums to meet and greets at renaissance festivals. Being able to do these interactive artistic performances is such a gift.

I’m lucky to have been able to turn my art of mermaid performances into a business. Bringing mermaids to life gives people of all ages joy and delight that’s unlike anything else, but the road to achieve it wasn’t easy. Even just being an underwater performer, you have to go through constant physical discomfort, ear infections, and irritated eyes. I’ve overcome such much to get to be the confident performer and owner I am today.

I was able to learn a lot performing under other companies such as how to handle clients, booking procedures, equipment set up and takedown, and more. I also formed opinions on how I would handle my employees and any conflicts that may arise. As their manager, I want them to be confident that I have their backs, and make sure that they feel well supported.

I want to make sure my company and my art is seen as inspiring, inclusive, magical, and a unique experience for all.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My best friend and I are pretty nerdy, so we would go to an event like OtakuFest at the Miami Airport Convention Center. We’d also visit Round1, visit a few malls for casual shopping, and go some escape rooms at The Escape Game. I’d take them to The Wreck Bar for a mermaid brunch, which is an incredible venue I regularly perform at.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my shout out to my incredible spouse! I don’t want to know where I would be without his support and encouragement.

Website: https://www.fairytailsentertainment.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fairytailsentertainment/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090674049220

Image Credits
Underwater photo – Rachel Sullivan Photography
Child dressed as fairy – Jay Morrison Photography
Child in red and black gown – Maddie Baldwin