Hey fellow Playgrounders! My group is starting a new campaign soon and its going to be 3.5

I am trying to build a Red Wizard eventually (we start at lvl 1) either through being a Sorcerer or a Wizard and trying to find a way to maximize the circle magic ability.

I was thinking of using the Leadership feat and gaining a Cohort that can smash face and take part in the magic circle by maybe being a Duskblade? But I would also have to use arcane using followers.....

I was just wondering if you guys had any ideas....... :)