A quick refresher before we get started to get you up to speed on the new party speak:
Our generation: “Pin the Tail on the Donkey” is now: “Portable Petting Zoo”
Our generation: “Jumping on Furniture” is now: “Inflatables and Bouncy Houses”
Our generation: “Clown” is now: “Clowns, Face Painting, Hot Air Balloon Rides and Trip to the Moon”
What are the hottest trends and venues for this season? Read on, birthday boys and girls. It’s party prep time.
Customization is king at the new Kids Rule Parties, where sitting down with owner Jeff Sherfer, has been called “an absolute pleasure” by local mamas looking for the perfect party for any age, gender or interest. The 10,000 square foot, multi-level space hosts over 10 different types of parties- everything from Dance Parties held on their LED lit dance floor which come with bubbles, fog, and neon primping stations, to Paintball Parties and orchestrated games of Silly String and Glow Ball. Guests can even choose favors by “shopping” the candy/toy bins and busy mamas will appreciate the “all-inclusive” turnkey option where Kids Rule staffers handle every detail for one price. (basic options start at $16 per child, Kids Rule Parties, 157A Main Street, Hackensack, 201-576-9423, EXCLUSIVE OFFER: TAKE 10% OFF AN ALL INCLUSIVE PARTY WITH THE MENTION OF BERGEN MAMA)
The new Carlo’s Bakery, Ridgewood, is running signature Cake Decorating Parties in their adorable, checkered floor party room designed to hold up to 28 mini-chefs in training. Under the tutelage of an expert Carlo’s bakery employee, partygoers outfitted in chef hats and aprons will pipe, ice and crumb coat their own personal cake, then munch on pizza and finish off with a house-made Buddy birthday creation. (90 minute party is $599.40 plus gratuity includes a 90 minute party for up to 12 guests, 12 Wilsey Square, Ridgewood, contact Nikki at 201-448-8427 for more information)
Your resident adrenaline junkie and his pals should bring their A-game to Pole Position Raceway, where party packages offer 1 and 2 races on the largest indoor kart track in the area. Guests get exclusive use of the track (so they can race against each other) plus invitations, game room tokens and one of the private party rooms set up with post-race food and drink. Luxe add-ons like Trophies, Carlo’s Bakery Cakes, and decked out digs are available for an additional fee. (Packages start at $40 per child and include 1 to 2 races, must be 48” or over, Pole Position Raceway, 99 Caven Point Rd, Jersey City, 201-733-7223, EXCLUSIVE OFFER: TAKE 10% OFF YOUR PARTY PRICE WITH THE MENTION OF BERGEN MAMA before June 30th, 2013)
If you’re looking for that wow factor (and to avoid the eye rolls of your tween), book a private experience at Converse in Westfield Garden State Plaza. After selecting their ideal sneaker size and style, your girl and her besties will settle into a designated area at the “Ink Bar” and select graphics, grommets and laces to make the pair their own. Fast forward 3 days later, and they’ll be sporting fresh, one-of-a-kind kicks worthy of posting to their Instagram accounts. (Prices start at $65 per person based on size, at Converse, Westfield Garden State Plaza, Paramus, (201) 845-4538)
Up the fun factor at your next in-home bash with the help of The Glam Tram or Milkpop.
Glam Tram founder Ali Mancuso is a licensed Cosmetologist/Esthetician with 20 years experience whose love of primping extends to her clients. Tram members (including a “Party Motivator”) bring that same enthusiasm when they arrive for your in-home “Spa-Jama” or “Ultra Glam” party leaving guests with post-cucumber facial glows and mini-manicured hands. (Rates start at $385 for up to 8 guests, call 845-269-1522, EXCLUSIVE OFFER: TAKE 10% OFF YOUR PARTY PRICE WITH THE MENTION OF BERGEN MAMA if you book before March 30th, 2013)
Our kids are obsessed with the latest in-home party trend brought to you by Milkpop. Artist and Founder Jena Scacceti, created a cast of adorable characters to grace the fabrics of everything from stuffed toys to Vans and Tees. Order up a package that your kids can decorate with fabric safe colored markers, pom poms and more. (Prices are per item and can be found online, [email protected] for inquiries)
Mini-veterans of the party circuit will be excited by World of Wings’ fresh new take on kid’s parties. The combo butterfly museum/kids center offers themes like “Bead It”(jewelry design), to cupcake decorating, inflatables and dress up, where you can combine your kid’s favorite pastime with a visit to the museum’s exhibits. All parties include two hosts and a private room, plus food for the kids and adults- or choose the VIP option, which touts a larger space with music, karaoke and unlimited access to the museum- perfect for the most momentous occasions. (Packages start at $599 for 10 kids, World of Wings, 1775 Windsor Rd., Teaneck, 201-833-4650)
