Despite the warm and fuzzy appeal of homemade gifts, not everyone has the patience or time to jump on the DIY bandwagon. That’s why we’re kinda crazy about Toluca Lake’s new shop, Zookies . . . .

We knew that cakes could be shaped like Lightning McQueen or Hello Kitty, but we had no idea the trend had hit the balloon sphere. So here we are with the latest way to go totally overboard for your kid’s birthday.

Trade shows and consumer showcases are hit or miss. Most often they’re a total drag. But we kinda like the sound of Plush, the “posh little urbanites show” being hosted at the Vibiana hotel in downtown L.A. on Sunday, June 5th.

Hollywood’s latest addition to the play space market has siblings in mind. In addition to the usual dance, art, and gym offerings for older tots, Romp (opening April 30th) features a 3’s-and-under room . . . .