A Retro Carnival Birthday Party Full of Vintage-Inspired Details

Step right up to one of the most beautifully classic birthday parties we've ever seen — a retro carnival full of classic entertainment and old-school snacks! For Ella's fifth birthday, guests took a step back in time, racing in potato sacks, firing off ringtosses, and having their faces painted. There was a magic show with live animals, wandering clowns, a bouncy house, and plenty of retro-inspired food to fill hungry bellies — think a vintage popcorn maker, Sno-Kones, and cupcakes from The Sweet Tooth Fairy.

Emily White of Park City's Haute Hostess, the woman behind the vintage-inspired event, says the party was a hit with adults and kids alike, despite the outside temperature passing the 100°F mark. "I think the most memorable moment was the 100-plus-degree temperatures," she said. "But that didn't dampen any spirits. Thank goodness for the waterslide bounce house!" That, combined with unlimited Sno-Kones, kept kids cool despite the weather.

To create a retro feel for the party, White scattered vintage wind-up clowns and penny candy throughout the decor. But her favorite element of party decor was something she randomly found, a "huge wrought-iron Ferris wheel I randomly found in a boutique furniture store." That, combined with game signage she made from red-and-white-striped paper plates and a Cricut letter maker, added a perfect feel to the soiree.

Read on to see all the beautiful details — the smiles on the guests' faces are a sure indication that the party was a bona fide hit!Photo by Carla Boecklin Photography via Two Bright Lights