Birthday Girl: Maisie McDonald of Florence, MA

Her Dream Party: Rocking out with her pals

Party Report From: Deanna Cook, Maisie's mom and FamilyFun's Creative Development Director

Maisie is a born singer -- she spends her free time belting out tunes, dressed in crazy costumes and playing a toy guitar. So when she turned 7 years old, we decided to turn our house into a cool concert venue and celebrate in true rock-star style. Here, we share the easy ideas and activities that got everyone into a musical birthday groove.

SETTING THE STAGE

Before guests arrived, we made our family room into a rock arena by pushing some furniture aside. For star-worthy curtains, we cut an old sheet in half, strung it on a clothesline, and decorated it with silver posterboard cutouts.

Tuneful tip: To create "backstage" and "onstage" areas, hang the curtains in a doorway between two rooms.

GETTING THE LOOK

Instructed to come wearing rock-and-roll finery, the girls had raided their moms' closets for some pretty outrageous styles. Maisie's older sister, Ella, and her best friend were enlisted to do hair and makeup (a great way to involve Ella in the party) for each new arrival. When everyone was totally glam, we had a runway-style photo session to record their fabulous getups.

Tuneful tip: Have plenty of extra baubles, boas, and funky hats on hand. For an even wilder look, let your guests apply temporary tattoos.