Conversations with Katie

Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie.

Hi Katie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started my career as a NICU nurse, caring for premature and critically ill newborns—a role that taught me patience, precision, and how to stay calm in chaos. After becoming a stay-at-home mom in 2021, I found myself craving a creative outlet. I threw a themed sleepover for my daughters, and it lit a spark. That one party turned into The Sleepy Teepee Co., which I launched in late 2024.

As the business grew and my offerings expanded beyond sleepovers—into patch parties, spa experiences, glam picnics, and more—I rebranded to Katie’s Party Lab in 2025. Now, I create hands-on, memory-filled events for kids in Erie, Colorado, and beyond. It’s been such a rewarding shift from nursing to party planning, but the heart of it is the same: caring for others, making them feel special, and creating joy.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Definitely not a completely smooth road, but I think that’s true for most small business journeys! In the beginning, I underestimated just how much work goes into running a business behind the scenes: marketing, pricing, inventory management, logistics, you name it. I had to learn a lot on the fly.

One of the biggest challenges has been balancing business growth with being a present mom. I want to give my kids a magical childhood and help other families create those same memories. That tug-of-war can be tough. I’ve also learned the importance of setting boundaries and pricing my services in a way that reflects the time, creativity, and heart I put into every event, rather than trying to please everyone.

But every challenge has taught me something. And honestly, the joy I see on kids’ faces when they walk into one of my setups makes it all worth it.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At Katie’s Party Lab, I create unforgettable, hands-on party experiences for kids. I design everything from themed sleepovers and spa parties to glam picnics, custom patch parties, and stuffed animal workshops. Each event is crafted to spark creativity, build lasting memories, and make the birthday child feel like the star of the show.

I specialize in turning ideas into immersive party setups that both kids and parents rave about. Whether it’s pink glitter slime or a butterfly tea party, every detail is thoughtfully planned and beautifully executed. I’m most proud of the reactions I get—those wide-eyed, joy-filled moments when kids walk in and realize the party was made just for them.

What sets me apart is my background as a NICU nurse. I bring that same level of care and attention to every event because to me, this is about more than just decorations. It’s about creating joy, making kids feel special, and giving parents a stress-free way to celebrate life’s sweetest moments.

We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Something surprising is that before starting Katie’s Party Lab, I spent years working as a NICU nurse. Most people see the glitter, balloons, and party magic, but don’t realize my background is rooted in high-stress, high-stakes care. That experience taught me how to stay calm under pressure, pay attention to the tiniest details, and show up for people during their most important moments. All of that carries over into my business, just in a much more colorful and playful way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://katiespartylab.com
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/katiespartylab
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566464684996