There’s nothing sweeter than celebrating a milestone birthday surrounded by family and friends. This year, Willow turned four, and her big day was hosted at The Paperback Playhouse in Blue Springs—a magical indoor play space designed for kids ages 0–8.
While the author received goods, services, and/or compensation from the businesses mentioned, all thoughts and opinions shared are entirely their own.
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The Paperback Playhouse made party planning easy and stress-free. Their packages include private use of the entire facility, DIY set-up or have them do it for you, a dedicated party assistant, and even clean-up afterward. Families can bring in their own food, beverages, and décor—or choose a package where cupcakes, place settings, and more are provided.
Willow and her friends enjoyed 90 minutes of play, followed by 30 minutes for cake and cookies. We opt not to open gifts at parties that way we can spend more time together during the gathering. The space included a birthday-themed sensory table and a flower-themed sensory table, a storybook corner, and a birthday book gift with stickers and bookmarks for Willow to take home. Sam, owner of Paperback, even put together all the goodie bags for us! They had stickers, necklaces and sunglasses!
Vendor Spotlight:
The Paperback Playhouse – Indoor play space and party venue for ages 0–8.
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Every element of Willow’s party tied back to her “wildflower” theme. Invitations set the tone with the phrase “may she be 4 ever wild”. A hand-painted banner by Byrd + Brush read “our little wildflower is turning 4” and became the centerpiece of the celebration. Guests took home wildflower seed packets that read “she is like a wildflower, beautiful, fierce and free” as thoughtful party favors to continue the theme long after the party ended.
The décor was anchored by a gorgeous balloon garland by Whimsy Balloons, woven with florals to perfectly complement the wildflower theme. The whimsical touches provided the perfect backdrop for photos and tied together the natural, airy feel of the party.
Vendor Spotlight:
Byrd + Brush – Custom, hand-painted banners and event artwork.
Whimsy Balloons – Balloon installations and custom party designs.
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No birthday is complete without cake and cookies! Willow’s dessert table featured two dozen custom cookies by Kindhearted Cookies and a beautiful floral-inspired cake by Sweet Serotonin Bakery. Both looked almost too pretty to eat—but were enjoyed by kids and adults alike. One thing I love about custom cookie orders is asking for them to be individually bagged and sealed, so that if there are any left over at the end of the party, guests can take those home with them as well!
Vendor Spotlight:
Kindhearted Cookies – Custom, hand-decorated cookies for every occasion.
Sweet Serotonin Bakery – Custom cakes and desserts made with love.
From a play space designed with families in mind, to desserts and décor crafted by local small businesses, Willow’s 4th birthday was a day filled with joy, imagination, and community. Every detail reflected the “wildflower” theme: beautiful, free-spirited, and full of life—just like the birthday girl herself.
