Just Add Kids and Cake is the brain child of Kathleen Ewen and Sherry Essany, a daughter-mother team in the Chicago suburbs.

By the time Kathleen was 18 she had spent 2 summers as a nanny, 1 summer as a church day care/summer camp counselor and 3 years as an extended care provider, so it was an easy decision for her to study elementary education at Illinois State University. While earning her degree she was given an assignment that included looking into other rewarding careers that could utilize her education. That is where she stumbled upon children’s party planning and mentioned it to her mother, Sherry Essany.

Sherry spent her entire life in customer service and/or sales so she has learned the importance of listening to customers and finding solutions that fit their needs and improve their lives. Being a working mother Sherry remembered how difficult it was to plan a memorable birthday party for her children. Finding the time to go from store to store to gather all the supplies not to mention planning games and activities to keep the children occupied was a challenge, especially with a budget. So when Kathleen mentioned she was interested in children’s party planning, Sherry immediately recognized the need for comprehensive party plans and supplies to help busy parents provide unique party experiences for their children.

They put their skills and experiences together and developed several themed parties, complete with costumes, game directions and supplies. You just add kids and cake!