Charlotte entrepreneur Laurie Gattis introduces Gobsmacked, a children�s party planning service, perfect for busy parents.  A great solution for parents who have run out of time, ideas or both…

So what is Gobsmacked?  It�s certainly not a term you hear every day, and that�s the point.  �I needed a word to clearly reflect a child�s expression if they were to walk into a birthday party and feel �flabbergasted, astounded, shocked�; the official Webster�s definition of the term gob-smacked.�  It�s quite similar to Christmas morning, when many children wake to discover that Santa did come, their expressions are priceless! 

Laurie is a local mother of two who has combined her creative abilities, successful professional background in sales and marketing, topped with an education in public relations to embark on this endeavor.  While there are numerous event planners in town, Gobsmacked seems to be the answer for children�s parties.  �The nice thing is that I will be able to assist parents with any style of party that they want.  I offer to both meet with clients by the hour and give them ideas that they can run with, or I will plan and implement the entire event � down to keeping track of RSVPs and writing thank you notes if you can believe that.�  This type of service offers parents the ability to customize their child�s birthday party so it�s not the same party they attended last month.  Laurie offers assistance with venues and themes, as well as décor and character visits.  She likes to provide the WOW factor.  One of the Gobsmacked mottos is �the possibilities are endless�, and they certainly are.  Parents can now sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.

Laurie is thrilled to be able to offer invitations to clients as well.  She has found some of the most unique and impressive invitations available in the country.  �I selected brands that you won�t find in most local shops.  They are all wonderful, and some are unique to Charlotte.�  This can be one stop shopping.  A far cry from most birthdays, where frantic parents can be found running around town tying up loose ends down to the last minute.  Another Gobsmacked slogan is �you choose the date and I handle the rest�.  �It undoubtedly can be just that easy�, Laurie assures her clients.

�Parents are busier than ever now, believe me I know.  This is where my services come in.  The thing is… I love doing this, and not everyone does.�  Kids love parties and take pride in hosting a successful event where all of their friends are having a ball, no matter what their age.  It�s important for parents to know that you don�t have to spend a fortune to have a great party.   You just need a good plan.  Some may think hiring a party planner is a bit extravagant, not realizing that planners can negotiate competitive pricing behind the scenes to provide discounts to their clients.

�I get such pleasure from planning the event and carrying out the details.  It�s my passion.�