Tots through teens can celebrate at the Palace in Des Plaines
Like many suburban parents, Mark and Shane Dupke were constantly searching for new places to host birthday parties for their three young children.
The husband and wife team were also looking for a business venture. The couple found Party Time Palace, a party place in Marrero, La., which was ready to start franchising. The Dupke's recently launched the first franchise at 723 W. Golf Road in Des Plaines.
The 21,000-square-foot facility caters to all ages providing everything from laser tag for older kids to train rides and soft-play equipment for the younger guest.
"We cater to everyone from toddlers to teens," Mark said. The facility features party rooms and is also open to the public.
For younger children, the facility features an inflatable mechanical bull, an electric train and an inflatable bouncer with two slides. An arcade with games and an area to redeem prizes is another highlight.
A 9-hole miniature golf course designed with Chicago attractions, including the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel and Wrigley Field is another part of the facility.
Party packages are available ranging from $199 to $299. The public can come in and play various games and pay as they go.
A 15-minute game of laser tag is $6.99 per child. Golf, train and bull rides are $3 each. Pizza, hot dogs, appetizers and pop is also available at the facility decorated in bright primary colors.
The business owners agree it's risky to launch a new business at this time. "It's a big leap of faith in the economy today," said Mark, who also works as a mortgage consultant. Shane works in the medical industry. The couple is raising three children; Rachel, 7; Joshua, 3; Rebecca, 1 in Park Ridge.
"It's a business our family can be involved with. We're hoping it's recession proof," Mark said. While researching business concepts, he said family entertainment is a growing area.
Business started off slow, but is picking up, the owners said. They booked 15 parties in February. They booked 15 parties last week alone.
The business is booking more summer camp outings, basketball team group gatherings and Boy Scout and Brownie packages.
For more information, call (847) 437-3100 or check out partytimepalace.com.
• Kim Mikus covers small business and retail. She welcomes comments at (847) 427-4567 or kmikus@dailyherald.com.