J begins to see the allure of a Chuck E. Cheese party

M is going to be three on May 19. So we're hosting a birthday party for her the weekend prior. Unlike the previous two years, she is starting to have definite opinions about her birthday. When we first broached the subject, M told me she wanted to be a princess. Which is why, two weeks ago, I found myself throwing together a rather gaudy evite (envision pink castles with purple turrets) and inviting 40+ kids/adults to M's Knights and Princesses Party. And it's why, today, I find myself searching the web for ideas on how to throw a successful princess party on the cheap. During my travels across the webisphere, I visited some interesting places.

Take for example, this company which has received many accolades in spite of having a site that looks like something Lisa Frank might throw up after one too many drinks.

Or this one, which by the look of things, hosts parties for children from very wealthy families (be sure to check out her blog and then sit back and savor the resulting feelings of inadequacy).

And then there's this one which has a Kids Pottery Barn-feel to it featuring cute kids in cute costumes having the time of their lives.

On a budget? Never fear! There are a few "do-it-yourself" party sites you can peruse: here, here, and here. Of course probably best to view these first because, frankly, the ideas and accompanying photos look like complete shit when compared to the professionally organized parties above.

And what do I have to show for all this research? Not much other than this face: