Our 5 Favorite Wedding Planning Resources
Posted on May 15, 2013
Planning a wedding isn’t necessarily an easy task. That’s why when you have a wedding at Faulkner’s Ranch or Benjamin Ranch we do everything we can to make sure that your planning goes as smooth as possible.
So, in order to help you out, we’ve compiled a list of
our Five Favorite Wedding Planning Resources.
Enjoy!
our Five Favorite Wedding Planning Resources.
Enjoy!
1.
Why We Love It: This website literally tools for everything you need to plan your wedding and keep it organized. In addition to the thousands of inspiration photos, there is an awesome timeline to keep you on track, as well as great reviews of vendors in your city. This is definitely a great starting place for any bride-to-be!
2.
Why We Love It: This website is another great source for inspiration from flowers to dresses to cakes. And best of all, everything is local! This is a must-bookmark-site for anyone having a wedding in the Kansas City area!
3.
Why We Love It: This blog is the wedding blog of choice for any brides planning a rustic or country wedding. In addition to beautiful inspiration photos, it features DIY projects, etiquette advice, and helpful articles. There is also it’s sister site, Rustic Wedding Guide, which helps connect couples to the best rustic wedding vendors.
4.
Why We Love It: If you are looking for ideas and inspiration, Pinterest is the place to go! Just beware – you might get stuck on there for hours pinning your heart away! Another great advantage of Pinterest? It helps keep your inspiration ideas in one place. Just be sure to make a “secret board” if you want to keep them a surprise before your big day.
There is a reason why we do this professionally. We love putting on top-knotch events. Our event coordinators can point you to the best of the best based for whatever you are looking for. We are connected with the best DJ’s, florists, and entertainers in the business. Just ask and we’ll be able to point you in the right direction!
Are you interested in having your wedding at Faulkner’s Ranch or Benjamin Ranch? Just visit our website or give us a call today at (816) 761-1234.
We can’t wait to make your dream day come true!
Have a great day, ya’ll!
Word From the Herd: Pony Party Saturdays
Posted on May 14, 2013
I think it goes without saying that most people love Saturdays. It’s the weekend after all!
Well, we especially love them here at the ranch because our Saturday’s are filled with Pony Parties!
Lately we’ve had some super cute parties come through.
Just see for yourself!
Just see for yourself!
We loved this Toy Story inspired birthday cake! Isn’t it adorable?
Adelyn, one of our birthday cowgirls, loves animals. So of course this super cute cake was very fitting!
These adorable cupcakes were made with love by one of the birthday mama’s. We love how she used the old fashioned peanut candy. It made us think of Bud Faulkner, better known as Granddaddy, and how he always kept that kind of candy in his office at the Western Wear store.
They are pretty creative, huh?
We can’t forget to showcase some of the Pony Party fashion. Gotta love a fancy pair of boots!
Of course, no birthday would be complete without meeting the party animals!
Check out these two little siblings. They’re just two weeks old and best friends already!
The parties especially love the goat climb! (And so do the goats! They always have very happy tummies after birthday parties!)
We love a great party favor! We love how these healthy treats were wrapped up in bandannas!
And last but not least, a special thanks to all of our little birthday cowgirls and cowboys! You make our Saturdays so much fun!
Are you interested in having your kiddo’s birthday party at Faulkner’s Ranch?
Click here to see what is included in our Pony Party package.
Have a great day, ya’ll!
Word From the Herd: Kentucky Derby Gala
Posted on May 13, 2013
On May 4th, we were thrilled to host Sugar Creek Equinapy’s Kentucky Derby Party here at the ranch.
Sugar Creek Equinapy is not-for-profit charitable organization that serves those who have disabilities through equine-assisted therapy at their therapeutic riding center located in Harrisonville, MO. To give you just a glimpse at the amazing things they do, just read their mission statement:
“Our mission is to improve the quality of life for those who have physically, mentally, emotionally, or debilitating life situation through the use of equinapy, our horse-assisted therapy program. We will strive to make a positive difference in the lives of our staff, volunteers, and our animals, to create an atmosphere that is inclusive to all.”
Needless to say, we were so excited to have them here at the ranch celebrating our mutual love for horses.
This party was a lot of fun! There were so many neat ideas that they incorporated that made us feel like we were at the actual Derby.
For example, like any good Derby Day, there were lots of awesome hats!
In fact, the students created and entered Derby Hats into a competition to be voted on. Here was the winning hat that day:
Pretty cool, huh?
They also had the official Derby drink, Mint Juleps.
Lisa here used mint from her garden and sonic crushed ice to add her own flair to this classic drink. She truly went above and beyond making them – they were delicious!
For food they chose to serve an incredibly yummy spread of our wings, sausage medallions, pulled pork sliders, cheeses, and assorted veggies. Just thinking about it makes us hungry again!
In addition to the delicious food and drinks, they also played games and had a silent and live auction. Here’s one of the unique items that was up for bid…
A piece of Derby Pie!
And of course, we all gathered around the big screen to watch the 139th Kentucky Derby Race take place. They say that it is the most exciting two minutes in history and that is so true!
All in all, this was one great party!
A special thanks to Sugar Creek Equinapy for choosing to celebrate at Faulkner’s!
As you can see, we host a variety of parties here at Faulkner’s Ranch! Are you interested in having your special event with us? Just click here for more info or give us a call today!
Have a great day, ya’ll!
PS – Congrats to Orb on his big win!
Happy Birthday Matt!
Posted on May 8, 2013
Today we are tippin’ our hats to celebrate a very special guy…
It’s Matt Faulkner’s Birthday!!!
 |
| Matt and his daughter, Maddie |
Besides being an amazing son, brother, and cousin…
 |
| Flashback: Bob and Matt |
 |
| Matt and his beautiful mother, Marilyn (in green) |
 |
| Brother and Sister |
 |
| The cousins minus one. |
He’s an extraordinary father…
 |
| Matt and Brody |
 |
| Matt and Madison |
The go-to guy here at the ranch and one of the hardest workers you’ll ever meet…
He’s also an excellent cook…
And did we mention that he can bake and decorate one hell of a cake?
(you know, just a little hidden talent…)
And on top of that he is truly one of the most genuine, hard working, creative, nicest guys you will ever meet.
So with that being said, we just want to say
Happy Birthday Matt!!!
Hope it’s a good one!
We love you!
We love you!
Remembering Marilyn Jo (Faulkner) Nauman
Posted on April 26, 2013
This week has been one full of sadness for the Faulkner Family.
As some of you may already know, Marilyn Jo Nauman, the dear sister of Bob, Dick, and Judy passed away on Monday from cancer and other complications.
Marilyn Jo (Faulkner) Nauman, 76, passed away April 22, 2013 after a short illness. Marilyn was born in Kansas City, Mo. She graduated from Witchita State University. For more than 30 years, she worked as a tax preparer at H&R Block Premium until her retirement in 2012. Marilyn was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, E. Bruce Nauman. Survivors include her daughter, Cindy (Paul) Baglow of Niskayuna; her son, J. Michael (Rene) Nauman of Little Rock, Ark., as well as six grandchildren, Melissa (Mark) Arsenault of Pottstown, Pa., Brandon Baglow, Laura Baglow and David “Buddy” Baglow of Niskayuna, and Edward Alexander and Rachel “LaLa” Nauman of Little Rock and one great-grandson, Anthony Forlano of Niskayuna. She is also survived by one sister, Judy (Woody) Blake and two brothers, Richard Faulkner and Robert (Marilyn) Faulkner, all of Kansas City. Calling hours will be from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, April 26 at the Daly Funeral Home, 242 McClellan St., Schenectady. Funeral services will be Saturday morning at 10:30 at the Daly Funeral Home. Burial will immediately follow in Parkview Cemetery in Schenectady. Memorial contributions may be made to the City Mission of Schenectady, 425 Hamilton St., Schenectady, NY 12305.
But Marilyn Jo was so much more than what her obituary says.
In addition to being a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, she was so many amazing things that made her the incredible woman that she was.
 |
| The Faulkner Siblings (from left to right: Dick, Judy, Marilyn, and Bob.) |
She had a passion for traveling that ran deep in her veins. Through her life her journeys led her to all corners of the earth. She had countless stories from the experiences she’d had all over the world.
She loved dollhouses and had collected several beautiful ones in her home. Whenever she would visit her family in Kansas City, she would always take them to the local dollhouse museum.
She had such a special relationship with her granddaughter, Melissa. She was so incredibly proud of her and all that she had accomplished.
 |
| Marilyn Jo with her daughter, Cindy, and granddaughter, Melissa. |
 |
| Marilyn Jo seeing Melissa in her wedding dress for the first time. |
She spent many a night on the phone with her sister, Judy, talking about anything and everything. Many times they would look at the clock only to realize that they had been talking for hours and it was well past midnight.
She was also incredibly fond of her dog, Manny, a gentle giant who kept her company in her New York home.
She was cultured and refined, extremely smart and well-read.
Beautiful inside and out.
A compassionate and accomplished woman who lived a full life filled with lots of love and family.
Beautiful inside and out.
A compassionate and accomplished woman who lived a full life filled with lots of love and family.
 |
| Marilyn Jo with her great-grandson, Anthony. |
While we feel that she was taken to soon, we find comfort in knowing that she is in a better place, with GrandMary and Granddaddy and her loving husband, Bruce.
We will miss you, Marilyn Jo!
Word From the Herd: An Eventful Weekend
Posted on April 23, 2013
Most people know Faulkner’s Ranch for our Pumpkin Season. Others know it for our company picnics and weddings.
But did you know that we actually host a variety of parties and events from benefits to milestone parties to team building and awards ceremonies?
Early in March we hosted two unique (and very fun!) events.
The first was with the Lee’s Summit Basketball Association on March 3rd. They celebrated their board appreciation dinner here at the ranch. One of the most special moments of this event was when they recognized one of their referees for the way he handled himself during a stressful situation at a game. A random fan saw his behavior and felt that it should be commended. They wrote a letter to the board to let them know how this awesome 21 year old stayed composed and set an example for everyone watching.
 |
| Applause for a job well done. |
The next event was one of our favorites of the year – The Sears Power Rama Training!
 |
| “Schmitty” polishing up the new lawn mowers. |
This event, which took place over the course of three days, was a lot of fun. Each day, the Sear’s lawn and garden sales associations would come in to train the Sears employees on their products. One of the reasons that we love this event every year is that it signifies one thing – Spring is coming!
The Sears employees and truck drivers are so incredibly nice. They are all so fun and friendly to work with. The truck drivers even went out of their way to give one of the Faulkner grandchildren, Miles, a special tour of their big rig. Wasn’t that nice of them? And not only that, but they also gave him a t-shirt which totally made his day. He even wore it to school the next day!
So, as you can see, we do more than just pumpkins here at Faulkner’s!
Are you interested in having your special event at Faulkner’s Ranch? Just give us a call at 816-761-5055 or visit our website today.
Have a great day, ya’ll!
Word From the Herd: Chili Cook-Off
Posted on April 18, 2013
Recently at the Ranch we hosted a super fun (and super yummy) event…A CHILI COOK-OFF!
That’s right! On March 23rd, we teamed up with Keller Williams Charities (KW Cares) for their chili cooking contest. For just $20, you and your team could enter your special recipe. Tickets to the event were only $5, which also got you a hot dog bar. Hot dogs and chili…mmmm! So good! In addition to the delicious food there were also raffles and door prizes (a great addition to any event).
All of the proceeds went to the charity, so guests weren’t just treating their tummies to some yummy chow; they were also helping out a good cause!
It was a snow day which made for absolutely perfect chili-eatin’ weather…
There were 28 entries in all. So much good food to try!
We even entered our own chili…
It smelled so good! We used pulled pork as our special ingredient.
The Faulkner’s actually had two entries with Cousin Lisa’s entry, Mimi’s Chili.
Unfortunately, we didn’t place, but we did have a ton of fun working the event together that night!
David Coffelt was the emcee for the night. He did a fantastic job!
And of course, we can’t forget the woman behind it all, Nancy Baalman! She was truly a joy to work with as we planned this event.
Now, I bet you’re all wanting to know who won, right?
Well, the judges had a tough job eating all of that incredibly delicious chili.
 |
| Accepting bribes? ;o) |
But they finally picked a winner! There he is, the man in red with the red hot chili!
He was a ton of fun. In fact, we knew that he was going to win when we met him. His chili had tri-tip steak (yum!) and he did such a fantastic job of promoting his chili. He really sold it!
Congrats! Congrats! Congrats!
This was such a fun (and delicious) night! Thank you Keller Williams for choosing Faulkner’s Ranch as your party place!
Interested in having your special event at Faulkner’s Ranch? Just click here for more information or give us a call at 816-761-1234!
Have a great day ya’ll!
How to Throw An Awesome Retirement Party in 10 Steps
Posted on April 11, 2013
We LOVE helping people celebrate the important milestones in their life.
That’s why when Sandy Hoffman came to us about celebrating her husband Gary’s retirement at Faulkner’s Ranch we were absolutely thrilled! Sandy works for us part time helping with events and she is by far one of the nicest ladies that you will ever meet.
We had so much fun helping her celebrate this big event. Everything from the decor to the guests to the special touches was executed with perfection.
Here is what she had to say about the big day:
“Everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves; the guys were like a bunch of old women! Tall tales galore!”
Wanna know how to throw an awesome retirement party?
Just take a note from this party and follow the steps below!
1. When everyone arrives, ask them to sign in. But don’t just have them sign any old thing! Do what Sandy did and have a framed picture available for them to sign. This not only will serve as a “guest book” down the road, but it will become a beautiful keepsake that they can hang in their home.
2. Get the drinks flowing! Open up the bar right away. Make sure that you have plenty of options. It’s always good to start with soda, beer, and wine, as well as some water, iced tea, and lemonade. That way you have something for everyone!
 |
| Sandy’s granddaughter is served by her mom and watched by her brother. |
3. Have some fun decor! Choose decorations that pay tribute to the retiree’s line of work. We love the use of construction cones and signs for this party.
 |
|
Meet Mr. Electricity! He came complete with hot sticks, boots, lineman belt, and a hard hat!
|
4. Now open up that buffet! It’s time to serve the food! Take a note from this party and open up both sides of the buffet at once. That way everyone gets to start chowing down sooner.
5. Once the food has been served, turn on some tunes and let everyone sit down, eat, and talk each other’s ears off.
 |
|
Eat and talk….and eat some more!
|
 |
| Family Chow Time! |
 |
| Gary and His Friends |
6. By the way, be sure to invite special people! Include family, friends, co-workers, and other groups that the guest of honor is involved in.
 |
|
The Lions Club members all showed up to support Gary.
7. During the party, let the retiree show off his work skills to his party guests.
|
 |
|
Gary shows off the safety demo to interested party goers.
8. Then pay tribute to the person of the night with a video and a display of memorabilia. Include things like pictures, uniforms, awards, and work ID’s.
9. And don’t forget to give a heartfelt speech. You can even ask the guest of honors closest co-workers and friends to each say a little something.
 |
10. Then just enjoy the rest of the night as your guests chat away and have a great time!
 |
|
And who said women were bad about talking?
|
We’re so glad that we got to celebrate this special day with the Hoffman’s!
Once again, congratulations to Gary on his retirement!
Way to go, pardner!
Are you interested in throwing a special party for one of your loved ones at Faulkner’s Ranch? Just click here for more information or give us a call at 816-761-1234.
Have a great day, ya’ll!
Word From the Herd: Spring Chicks
Posted on April 8, 2013
It’s Spring, so you know what that means?
Babies, Babies, Babies!
They’re everywhere!
Here on the farm we’ve got lots of adorable new little ones…
We even added a brand new member to the ranch family last night!
Meet Stormy!
This sweet little thing was born during last night’s Spring storm.
We are happy to announce that mama and baby are doing fine!
But wait, there’s more!
We’ve even got some new little chicks in the Faulkner family!
Kelly Jo, our director of social media, brought her baby girl by the farm the other day to say “Howdy!” to her cousins…
Don’t you just love that adorable cowboy hat from Cousin Christy? Yee-haw!!!
And a big congrats to Farmer Loneman, our hayride driver of 11 years, on the birth of his new granddaughter…
Such a sweetie!
Gotta love the cuteness! Spring has officially sprung!
Have a great day, ya’ll!
A Princess Pony Party
Posted on March 8, 2013
Lately our weekends here at the ranch have been filled with the cutest little cowboys and cowgirls coming to celebrate their birthdays
with a Pony Party!
We just love seeing the awesome ideas that their mamas and papas come up with. We especially love seeing what theme they choose!
This month we had a super cute theme that we just had to share…
A Princess Pony Party!
Meet Olivia! The Birthday Girl and Princess for the day!
She is also a Pony Camp graduate!
Last year she celebrated with us with a cowgirl themed party, but this year she brought the sparkle and the glitz with a super cute princess theme.
Of course, Olivia was dressed for the part complete with a tiara and wand! And check out that ring on her finger! This party was all about the bling – lots of sweetness and sparkles!
Party Tip: In the invitation, encourage your kiddo’s guests to dress according to the theme! It not only gets them excited for the party, but it also makes for some really cute pictures on the big day.
We just love it when our pony campers come back to the ranch to celebrate their birthdays. It’s so much fun to see them reunite with their pony camp pony and show what they learned to their friends. Plus, the ponies LOVE all of the extra special attention.
A good party favor is a great way to thank your guests for coming and a fantastic way to give them something to remember the fun that they had. We just love the party favors from this party! Aren’t they cute?
Her mom ordered these personalized bottlecap necklaces from Etsy to give to all of the girls.
Party Tip: With handmade or personalized party favors, it is important that you know your guest list well in advance so that you get them ordered on time.
The cuteness didn’t stop there. Just look at the adorable pony cookies that were served.
Not to mention this princess cake…
Can you believe that her mom made it herself?! Way to go, mama!
Party Tip: Even one really creative snack that goes along with your theme, like the cookies above, will leave a lasting impression on your guest.
Needless to say, this was a super fun party with a super fun little gal!
Thanks for celebrating your birthday with us again, Olivia! You rock!
Interested in throwing a Pony Party at the ranch for your little cowpoke?
And don’t forget to sign up for Pony Camp! Sessions are booking fast!
Have a great day, ya’ll!
Follow Us