However, there was a lot going on that summer as we were moving from Wisconsin to California. My husband was already living in California and our house was in a constant "show" state - and I couldn't imagine having one of my normal parties (normal to my standards) with all that was on our plate. So, I contacted The Little Gym where my daughter took gymnastics. She loved it there, it was colorful and Miss Kate was the best teacher there - and she would lead the party. In all, it was the best solution to a true conundrum at that moment in our lives.
But, don't think I just gave in and allowed the venue to dictate every detail. There was no way I would do it "like everyone else." So, I started planning on how I could use what is provided to us (a short window, limited space) and tried to find a way to make it as perfect as possible.
I am sure you are asking how I made it unlike "everyone else" and naturally...I will tell! The party was a huge hit - every detail was appreciated by the kids and parents - and despite this being the most unlikely place for one of my parties - it turned out just fine.
The Third Birthday
Inspiration: Gymnastics
Location: The Little Gym - Fitchburg, WisconsinThe invitation.
The invitation was simple and found on my "old reliable" trusty website: Tiny Prints. Sadly, I don't have a photograph to show what we did for her 3rd birthday. Again, living out of boxes!
The Cake and Food.
The cake and cupcakes were simple this time. I didn't go to the drawing board as I have in the past. I simply wanted something colorful and festive to match the bright primary colors found all over The Little Gym. The Rolling Pin bakery did a good job in trying to capture what I had in my mind. I had a mini cake made just for Maddie and then cupcakes for her friends.
I didn't have an opportunity to do one of my traditional themed food buffets due to the time limitations. But, I did at least provide some finger treats for the parents and kids but mostly the focus was the dessert.
In an effort to ease my mind and try to create little experiences that one would not typically find at one of these venues - I created the "Maddie Moo's Munchies" candy buffet. This was fun! The kids could build their own take-home gift filled with wonderful sweet treats from the candy buffet. One of my best friends even brought Brigaderio's (a traditional Brazilian treat) to add to the colorful selection. It was a big hit!
The activity (aka the FUN)!
The main focus of the party is the activity. The kids spend about an hour and a half in the gym - dancing, moving, celebrating and just letting loose. My daughter had the time of her life - and in the end - that is all that matters, right?
...did I mention that Miss Kate was amazing!
Party Favors!
In addition with a bag full of sugar from the candy buffet (sorry parents) each kid got a customized T-Shirt that read: I went for the Gold at Maddie's 3rd Birthday Party! They were cute and perfect for that gymnastics theme. Many of her classmates wore their t-shirts at school the following week. In my daughter's eyes - it was reason to celebrate her birthday again and again.
The Summary?
Despite feeling like my creative hands were tied by going to one of these venues - we achieved our desired results: a GREAT party. I won't lie - not having to do any clean up after a bunch of wild toddlers take over my home - was FANTASTIC! And, if you really push (and nag) you can certainly bring more pizazz to a party of this kind and everyone at The Little Gym were patient and accommodating (no, I am NOT high maintenance at all).
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