When it comes to birthday parties, good planning can be the difference between a successful party and one that is a total flop. So grab a pen, a piece of paper, and the child who is getting ready to turn a year older; sit down and put a party plan together that you can both live with. The biggest factor in determining what kind of party you are going to host and how many guests will be invited is the budget. Don’t go overboard just to impress your child or other parent—you’ll regret it in the end. Determine what you can afford, and stick to it! Remember: your kids are watching and learning from everything you do. It’s the perfect time to teach them that budgeting is not only important, but the responsible thing to do. Once the budget is set, you can move on together to determine who to invite, where the party will take place, what the theme will be (if any), what kind of refreshments to serve, what activities to schedule, and so on.

Start planning at least a month in advance to keep your stress level down by allowing ample time to handle any complications you might encounter. Then on the big day, if you’ve done your planning well, you should be able to sit back, relax, and enjoy the party with your child.

Whether you plan to party at home or at another location, below you will find local party experts available to help you with just about anything you might need to make this day one to remember—fondly, of course.

Action Inflatables Mega Events, LLC. Olathe, Ks. Action Inflatables provides inflatable and carnival games for parties for all ages. They have moonwalks, giant slides, obstacle course, combo unit, bungee run, and a gladiator joust. All games are clean, safe, and fully insured. They also have a number of carnival games available including plinko, frog launch, pony hops, duck pond, beanbag toss, mini golf, pig races, etc. Make your next event a Mega Event! Cost $100– $1200. Contact: www.kcactioninflatables.com or 913-780-JUMP (5867).

Air Zone. Kansas City, Mo. The perfect place to plan your next party or special event! Their parties plans accommodate various times, ages, and budgets. Every party is private—your group has exclusive use of play arenas and party rooms during your allotted time. Friendly, trained staff is available to assist you every step of the way. Sit back and enjoy—they’ll handle the details. Contact: 816-537-5977 or www.airzonekidz.com.

Beach Bums. Overland Park Ks. Choose from two packages; both include 90-minute reserved seating, hot breadsticks, 2 slices of single topping pizza, collector cup w/free refills, tokens, ice cream, and a special gift for the birthday child. Cost: $10.99-$13.99 per child. Contact: www.beachbumsisland.com or 913-685-2525.

Benjamin Ranch - Kansas City, Mo. Indoor pony parties at Benjamin Ranch are the exciting and stress-free solution to your winter birthday dilemma. The first hour is completely facilitated by their friendly cowpoke hostess. Children create a cowboy hat, compete in a cow milking competition, play a rodeo game, and enjoy pony rides. In the second hour you’re on your own to provide birthday treats and open gifts. These popular parties fill up fast, so schedule yours today! Cost: $300.00+tax. Contact: www.benjaminranch.com or 816-761-5055.

Bistro Kids - Serving the metro area. How about a creative cooking “hands-on” approach to celebrating?! Parties run 1-1/2 – 2 hours. Kids participate in cooking-related games/activities, decorate their own cookie or cupcake, and prepare the birthday meal. Each junior chef receives a cooking-themed gift bucket, apron, and chef hat. Plus, the birthday child receives a personalized chef apron. They come to you to make cooking fun! Cost: $35/child. Contact: www.inhomebistro.com or 913-710-5171.

Boomerang Bouncers & Entertainment - Lenexa, Ks. Keep the fun and memories bouncing back! BB&E offer a large variety of inflatables for all ages and occasions. Check out dozens of bouncers, obstacle courses, wet & dry slides, and now they can even bring LASER TAG to your location. Add-ons available: popcorn, cotton candy, or Snowie shaved ice. Courteous drivers deliver right to your party location. Weekday & other discounts available. Contact: boomerangbouncers.com or 913-322-8839.

Bounce House Moonwalks - Gladstone, Mo. Bounce House Moonwalks provide endless entertainment for any party! Their moonwalks are perfect for birthday parties, church functions, school functions, family reunions, company picnics, and more. Contact: 816-420-0365 or Bouncehousekc.com.

Children’s Museum of Kansas City - Kansas City, Ks. The Museum offers a General Birthday Party with 3 themes, a Tea Party, and a Pirate Birthday Party for children of all ages. Parties include use of their private party room, a hostess, paper products/decorations, a game, craft, cupcakes, lemonade, and unlimited museum time.All you need to do is show up and enjoy this special day! General Party: $75 for up to 8 children - each additional child $8.50; Tea Party: $125 for up to 8 children - each additional child $12.50; Pirate Party: $125 for up to 8 children - each additional child $15. Contact: www.kidmuzm.org or 913-287-8888.

Chocolate Picture People - Lenexa, Ks. Personalize your party with 100% edible chocolate pictures in a variety of shapes and sizes. Choose a photo and they’ll reproduce it directly onto delicious chocolate coins, lollipops, trading cards, CD’s, or Mega Bars. You can also trim your birthday cake or cupcakes with gorgeous edible chocolate photos. Your imagination is the only limit. Contact: www.chocolatepicturepeople.com or 913-962-5969.

Cool Crest - Indep., Mo. Cool Crest offers a safe,fun-filled, family environment for your party. Choose from a number of affordable and flexible party packages that include 90 minutes at the decorated birthday table, pizza, drinks, tokens, and a gift for the birthday child. A personal hostess takes care of all the details so parents can relax and enjoy their child’s special day. They also offer affordable group packages for family outings, youth groups, school trips, sports teams, corporate events, and more. Make reservations online. Contact: 816-358-0088 or www.coolcrest.com.

Dave’s Gymnastics Factory - Lee’s Summit, Mo. These fun and active 90-minute parties are for boys and girls. First hour includes obstacle course with gymnastics equipment, jump on trampoline into foam pit, rope play, and other supervised games. Last 1/2 hour is spent in party room. DGF provides ice cream cake, lemonade, cups, bowls, napkins, utensils, candles, set up, and clean up. Parties are offered on Saturdays and Sundays. Cost: $150 for up to 20 children. Call for available times and dates. Contact: www.davesgymnastics.com or 816-525-5650.

Edge Gymnastics - Riverside, Mo. “Northland’s Choice” for Birthday Party Fun! The new Giant Obstacle Course Inflatable which has 2 slides, 2 climbing walls, and numerous obstacles to climb over, under, and through. There are foam pits, tumble tramps, large trampolines, a preschool-size trampoline, bars, beams, and mats galore! The 2-hour party includes paper goods in the color you choose, custom EDGE Invitations with directions to the facility, and a personal host. Contact: www.edgegymnastics.com or 816-587-2242.

Elite Gymnastics & Aquatics - Lenexa, Ks. Gym & Treehouses is host to a 50-foot rock wall, 50-foot trampoline, slides, foam pits, 6 inter-connected treehouses, rope swings, 50-foot zip line, and more! Indoor swim parties are offered year-round. The water is kept at 90°—the tube slides are great! Cost: $115 for 1 hour for 10 kids; $5/extra child, party room $40 for 45 minutes. Contact: www.Elitegymaq.com or 913-459-5554.

Emerald City Gymnastics & Adventure Center - Overland Park, Ks. Fun-filled parties for ages 4–12. Children ages 4–7 enjoy 90-minutes of structured party time: 60 minutes of play guided by a private coach followed by 30 minutes in party room. Kids ages 8–12 enjoy 2 hours open play parties: 90 minutes of group supervised play followed by 30 minutes in party room. Chairs, tables with tablecloths, invitations, and helium balloons with suckers are supplied.Cost: $145 for 10 children; $10/additional child. Contact: www.emeraldcitygym.com or 913-438-4444.

Enchanted Parties For You - Kansas City, Mo. A 2-hour, hosted, custom party in your home is sure to make your birthday girl feel truly enchanted. A complete package includes invitations mailed out, delightful table settings, food, cupcakes, dress-up clothes, activities, elegant goody bags, etc. It’s a busy parent’s dream-come-true! Mention MACR and pay deposit before 2/29/08 to get $25 off party. Cost: $250. Contact: www.enchantedpartiesforyoukc.com or 816-448-9444.

A Fairytale Ballet - Overland Park & Prairie Village Ks. A birthday celebration with A Fairytale Ballet is a dream come true! A ballerina hostess leads the festivities and brings your child’s favorite fairytale to life. Children dress in beautiful costumes and dance with props creating a magical experience! Their new “Tutu Lovely” package allows each girl to have their hair and make-up done to look like a lovely ballerina! Schedule your party in their Overland Park or Prairie Village studios or in your home. Contact: www.AFairytaleBallet.com or 913-851-5292 (OP) or 913-671-7944 (PV).

A Flip Zone - Lee’s Summit, Mo. A party your child won’t forget never forget! Instructors lead kids through a 33-ft. obstacle course. Kids will jump on the tumble trak and play age-appropriate games while you enjoy this day. They make parties easy and fun! Private parties last 1-1/2 hours. A themed cake, paper goods, drinks, invitations, and a T-shirt for your child are provided. Contact: aflipzone.com and 816-524-2636.

GAGE Center/Bump City - Blue Springs, Mo. All packages are based on 10 participants and include invitations, T-shirt for birthday child, supervised fun-filled playtime in gym or pool, and 30 minutes in party area for gifts and refreshments. Ages 6 & up: Choose the package to fit your needs. Bump City (indoor playland), Monster Mountain (indoor rock wall) or Bump City Challenge Ropes course. Bump City Jr. Parties (ages 1–5) include challenging obstacle courses, trapezes, foam pit, rope swings, and giant 3-person slide. NEW! Swim parties in enclosed pool. Refreshment packages may be added to any party. See ad in MACR for discount. Cost: $135–$300. Contact: www.gagecenter.com or 816-229-7775.

Gautreaux’s Martial Arts Center - Lee’s Summit and Blue Springs, Mo. Gautreaux’s guarantees your party will be loads of fun. Each 90-minute party has a curriculum similar to a martial arts class. Instructors are educators, you’ll find a message of positive enforcement in every skill and drill taught. Kids will not be running around in a wild, uncontrolled environment or standing around bored. Parties are fast paced, action filled, excitement packed, and music-friendly. No Martial Arts experience needed; those 4 years and older can participate. Contact: 816-525-6900 (L.S.) or 816-229-6611 (B.S.)

Gladstone Bowl - Gladstone, Mo. Gladstone Bowl is a fun place for children’s birthday parties. Saturdays from 2–4 p.m. is a Galactic Great Time for kids! Two hours of glow-in-the-dark bowling with music and lights! Sunday afternoons from 3–5 p.m. is also great for parties—enjoy traditional bowling for 2 hours. Just $35 per lane for up to 5 on a lane when reserved and prepaid 1 week in advance. You provide cake and decorations! Smoke-free times. Contact:www.Gladstonebowl.com or 816-436-2695.

Gymboree Play & Music of Lee’s Summit, Mo. Gymboree offers age-appropriate parties for ages 1 – 5. Party planners can expect the same activities that make Gymboree famous and can choose between various themes or create their own. Parties include exclusive use of the facility, a Gymboree teacher to lead all activities, balloons, invitations, a gift for the birthday child, clean up, and set up for as little as $159. Contact: GymboreeLS@yahoo.com or 816-525-7529.

Kidz Kabana - Lee’s Summit, Mo. Parties are designed to be easy and convenient so parents can sit back, relax, and enjoy their child’s birthday! Parties, for up to 10 children, are held on Sundays and last about 2 hours. Packages can include: Moonwalk Bouncer, Luau or Jungle Theme decorations, tableware, and paper goods, character visit from Dora or Diego, cake, drinks, party host/party coordinator and 1 additional staff member, personalized invitations, and 3 optional games. Cost: $75–$200. Contact: 816-554-4949.

Kindermusik Birthday Parties - Indep., Mo. Celebrate at the New Party/Event Venue, The Rhapsody, located at 2322 R.D. Mize Rd., Independence, Mo. The Musik Connection kicks off your child’s party with 1 hour of Kindermusik fun. Parties include playing instruments, storytime, circle dances, creative movement or a Jumping Castle. Parties are available for ages 18 mo. – 7 years; older children and adults are welcome to celebrate their special day in new indoor/outdoor event center. Cost $200–$400. See ad in MACR for $50 off coupon. Contact: www.musikconnection.com or www.therhapsody.net or 816-795-0777.

Kindermusik with Denise Revo - Lee’s Summit, Mo. The party fun, for children ages 1 – 6 years, comes to you. A completely interactive, totally fun experience for everyone! Exploration and instrument free play for up to 15 minutes sets the stage for the next 30 – 45 minutes of guided musical activities including singing games, instrument play-alongs, creative movement, etc.! Maximum of 12 children; adult participation required for 1– 3-year-olds. Cost: $115/party or $150 for a themed party of your choice (special rates apply outside Lee’s Summit). Mention MACR for $15 OFF your party! Party favors available for an extra fee. Contact: www.revomusic.com or 816-554-2363.

Korea America Taekwondo - Indep., Mo. Korea America Taekwondo is an exciting, fun-filled place to celebrate for children ages 4 and up. Children will explore what it’s like to learn Authentic Korean Taekwondo: punching, kicking, falling, and board breaking techniques. Party includes 1 hour of school usage with black belt instructor, reserved party space, and staff help. Contact: tkdkat@hotmail.com or 816-795-1090 or visit school. See ad in MACR for coupon.

The Little Gym - S. Overland Park, Ks. The Little Gym® Birthday Party includes 90 minutes of uninterrupted fun, invitations (addressed, stamped, and mailed), qualified birthday leader and assistant, set-up, clean-up, paper goods (plates, forks, cups, napkins), drinks, T-shirt for the birthday child, and a gift registry (if you open your presents while you’re there). This is a stress-free party for parents so you can enjoy the day as much as your child! Cost: $225. Contact: tlgsouthoverlandparkks.com or 913-385-1122.

Main Cup Cafe - Smithville Mo. Little girl dress-up tea parties held in a real tearoom! Girls choose a dress, hat, boa, and jewelry, and then put on a fashion show. A brief, interactive etiquette lesson is presented, and each child receives her own teapot and tea service. A beautifully decorated hat-shaped cake is included. Face tattoos and goodie bags are provided. Parties run 90 minutes. Contact: 816-532-8377. Cost $60–$200.

Mercury Gymnastics - Kansas City, Mo. Come check out the 25,000 sq.ft. facility with one of the largest foam pits your child will ever jump and play in. Choose from 3 party options. All parties include 1 hour of gym time, 1/2 hour of cake and gift time, invitations, paper supplies, birthday T-shirt, and private coach to facilitate the party. Cost: $125–$170.Mention MACR to receive $5 off your party. Contact: 816-880-9996.

Midwest Aquatics - Overland Park, Ks. Scuba Diving & Swim Parties include favors, invitations, gift for birthday child, cake, ice cream, and juice. There’s 60 minutes of fun in the heated indoor pool with lifeguard/instructor, and then 30 minutes for refreshments and gifts. Scuba equipment is provided for scuba party. Table and chairs, set up, and clean up also included. Just mail the invitations and show up! Cost: Scuba Party $295 for up to 10 participants; $25/additional guest and Swim Party $195 for up to 10 participants; $15/additional guest. Gratuity not included. Contact: 913-402-0403.

movinNgroovin - Overland Park, Ks. Fantastic fun for kids of any age! Parties are packed with energy, but parents can relax—the staff takes care of everything. Choose from lots of activities: Gymnastics, PS2 Cardio, Fun Dance, Hip Hop, Cheer, Sports, Relays, Rockwall, and more! Invitations, paper goods, and decorations are provided. Time for cake and gifts included. They can help with cake and goody bags, too. Choose either the 90-minute or 2-hour party. Mention MACR for $25 off; some restrictions may apply. Contact: 913-851-3400 or www.movinNgroovinKS.com.

Paradise Park - Lee’s Summit, Mo. Kansas City’s Premier Party Destination can make all your Dreams & Wishes come true! These fully-hosted parties continue to be a favorite with both parents and kids alike! They offer the CEDC (Children’s Edutainment Center) and FEC (Family Entertainment Center) Birthday Parties and their 3 Adventure Packages: Ultimate Adventure (unlimited fun for the entire day), Adventure 20, and the Big Kid Adventure! What’s your wish? Cost: parties start at $256. Contact: www.Paradise-Park.com or 816-246-5224 Ext. 121.

Pottery Art - Indep., Mo. Choose from their many party package options. Children love to create their own bowl on the pottery wheel at the Pottery Wheel Party. Or your child might prefer to make glass pendants in the Jewelry Party. Your kids are sure to enjoy painting at the Paint on Pottery Party. Pottery Art is open evenings and weekends. Let their friendly staff make your birthday special. Contact: 816-353-3055.

Pruter’s U.S. Martial Arts and Sport Taekwondo - Blue Springs and Lee’s Summit, Mo. Parties, for up to 25 children, run 1-1/2 hours and include 2 instructors to lead the fun! Kids enjoy the 30-minute martial arts class where the birthday child breaks a board! Pizza and soft drinks are served! They furnish table settings with plates, cups, napkins, forks, and a tablecloth! Watch the thrilling cake cutting ceremony where your child uses a real sword to cut the birthday cake! Games, contests, and prize drawings, too! Cost: $199. Contact: www.pruterstkd.com or 816-224-0000 (B.S.) or 816-525-4300 (L.S.).

The Pulse Performing Arts Center - Kansas City, Mo. 816- 941-2278. Celebrate imagination and fun with exciting birthday parties for ages 3–12! Choose from 4 popular options: High School Musical, Pop Starz, Ballerina Dream, or Fairytale Princess. The 90-minute party includes themed paper products and decorations, games and activities with prizes, fun dances taught by the host, use of studio props, and an 8x10 photo. You provide refreshments. Cost: $150 for up to 10; $15/additional guest. www.ThePulsePAC.com

Pump It Up of Shawnee Mission. Shawnee Mission, Ks. Private 2-hour Classic Party for up to 26 children, ages 2+! Supervision provided—only the host is required to stay; parents are welcome and can play for free! Invitations and paper products are included for you to use in their colorfully decorated party room. They serve your cake. Let PIU provide pizza/drinks, balloons, and goodie bags—sit back and take pictures while your guests have a blast! Cost: $260/Weekend Classic; $225/Weekday Classic; $175 Weekday Mini-Classic. Mention MACR to receive 10% off Classic Party booked by 1/31/08. Contact: www.pumpitupparty.com/shawneemission.html or 913-236-PUMP(7867).

Pump It Up of Olathe - Olathe, Ks. The coolest place in town to have a party! All parties are private, clean, and fun! They have 12,000 square feet of inflatable play arenas and party rooms and many packages to choose from. Parties run from 1-1/2 – 2 hours and are fully staffed. They take care of the invitations and supply all the paper goods. Contact: www.pumpitupparty.com or 913-764-7529.

Radisson Hotel -Lenexa/Overland Park - Lenexa, Ks. Check-In at 3 p.m. to 2 connecting poolside rooms each with 2 double beds. Four medium pizzas and 3 pitchers of soda from The Bistro will be delivered to your room at a time you specify. Enjoy 1 free Pay-Per-View Movie and the hotel’s indoor swimming pool or video game room. Two-Day advance booking required. An adult 21 years of age or older must check-in and stay. Call hotel for availability. Cost: $225 plus tax. Mention MACR for 10% discount. Contact: www.radisson.com/lenexa.com or 913-888-6670.

Storybook Stables - Kansas City, Mo. This farm is nestled on rolling hills in Kansas City North, just five minutes west of I-29 and Barry Road. A 2-hour party includes 1 hour of pony rides on two ponies and 1 hour in the party room or at the picnic grounds. Customize your party by adding a campfire, painting a live pony, a hay ride, games, more ponies and/or lengthen your party time. They can also travel to your location for an additional fee. Cost: Basic Package is $200; call for optional activities pricing. Contact: 816-716-4714.

Studio La-di-da - Overland Park, Ks. Studio La-di-da always has a party going on! Choose from the party menu: Makeovers & Fashion Show; Cheer; Spa; Craft; and Limo.The Perfect Party Package includes invitations, thank-you notes, refreshments, and goody bags. If you want to provide your own party supplies you can rent their party room. Other services:Girl Scout Badges; Craft Class; Etiquette Class; Summer Camp and Mini-Camps when school is out. Call for cost. Contact: www.studioladida.com or 913-681-5808.

Theatre of Imagination - Kansas City, Mo. With Movie Star Acting they bring costumes to you and make your child the star of a movie. Everyone watches the movie right there and you get a free DVD. Ages 4 & up, parties run 2 hours. Themes include Hannah, Superhero, Diva, HSM, Pirate, Princess, Beach Party and more. Also good for Scouts, after school, slumber parties, fundraisers/auctions, home school groups, church functions. Cost: $200 for up to 15 kids. Contact: www.tiarts.com or 816-561-2787.

Timbermist Farm - Pleasant Hill, Mo. Birthday party includes use of the heated and air-conditioned furnished lounge area for serving food, opening gifts, etc. A barn tour and a hay ride on the 50-acre farm is included, too. Meet the horses up close and personal and learn about the workings of a show barn. Each child receives a mini riding lesson provided by our instructor in the indoor arena. Cost: $20/child. Two adults are included on the hay ride; $5/additional adult. Minimum of 6 children. Contact: 816 540-1776.

Wings of Love Bird Shows - Kansas City, Mo. Choose from 3 shows which include colorful toucans, an owl, parrots, and a vibrant pollinator. Bird-day child participates in show by performing magic tricks and other interactions with birds. Birds ride table bike, spell, bicycle on high-wire, roller-skate, drive vehicles, play basketball, bowl, raise the flag, speak on cue, hip-hop, break-dance etc. Dazzling educational entertainment for all ages. Cost: $210 – $275. Contact: www.wings-of-love.com or 816-645-3601.

Wonderscope Children’s Museum - Shawnee, Ks. Is a wonder-filled place to celebrate a birthday for your child ages 2–8. Children create, play, explore, and discover their world in a place tailored especially for them. Party include: 90 minutes museum playtime, reserved party space, cupcakes, drinks, favors, and a staff member to help. Cost: start at $125 for 12 children. Contact: www.wonderscope.org or 913-268-4176.

Young Chefs Academy - Leawood, Ks. Let Young Chefs Academy create an unforgettable birthday celebration for your child! YCA Birthday Party runs 1-1/2 hours, and the birthday guests will participate in real “hands-on” cooking during that time. Contact: 913-451-2YCA.