An Adventurous, Outdoor, Huckleberry Finn-Inspired Birthday Bash
When party planner and confections queen Jenny Keller describes her son Hudson, she writes that he is one million percent boy. This made choosing the theme for his sixth birthday party a lot easier.
"He isn't a kid infatuated with superheroes, trucks, or building Legos," she writes on her site. "He just wants to be outside." Jenny pulled inspiration from famous outdoorsman Huckleberry Finn to create a birthday bash that was as adventurous as her little boy. From the fare to a faux fishing station, this party was perfect for any child who longs to spend their days in nature. Scroll through to see every element of this wilderness bash.
You're Invited
When it came to invitations, Jenny "didn't want anything cutesy." She settled on customizable cards from The Blue Egg Events.
Grab Your Cap
Guests were encouraged to don raccoon hats à la Davy Crockett.
The Campgrounds
Jenny jazzed up some tents from B.E. Little You and Me by attaching feathers to the top. She also kept guests comfy (and dirt-free) by laying out blankets for sitting.
Soup's On
Since the party was held in the evening, Jenny served some chili and other suppertime fare.
Hot Potato
Jenny also set up a baked potato bar with toppings that ranged from the traditional sour cream and chives to the more elaborate baked beans, mac and cheese, and pulled pork.
Ready, Aim, Fire!
Jenny set up a slingshot station where guests shot marshmallows at vintage bottles and cans.
Go Fish!
Initially, Jenny planned on letting kids "fish" in a nearby pond, but an extrahot Summer left her with a mere puddle. So instead, she set up a bait shop filled with gummy worms, frogs, Swedish Fish, and eggs.
Some Sweet Bait
Jenny gave each child a tackle box to fill with candy.
Antique Accents
Vintage fishing gear and books made the party feel a bit more sophisticated.
Murky Waters
Guests sipped on soda and swamp pop (aka ginger ale).
Time to Hunt
In addition to the slingshot station, kids were sent on a nature-themed scavenger hunt.
What a Catch
Guests placed their finds in these dollar-store nets.
Hit the Trail (Mix)
Hudson's favorite trail mix fueled guests during the scavenger hunt.
Tasty Display
Jenny used an antique shelf to display the treats. She donned the dessert station with antlers, a wooden "H" and "6," and two old Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn prints from Etsy.
Cookies Upon Cookies
Jenny said her traditional sugar cookies didn't fit the party's theme. Instead, she opted for no-bake cookies and acorn doughnuts.
Easy as Pie
Jenny enlisted the help of the Snohomish Pie Company to create these pint-size confections.
An Adventurous Cake
Jenny dressed up her cake — a homemade chocolate cake with a German chocolate and buttercream filling — by adding fresh greens and a Huckleberry Finn cake topper from eBay.
Some Bunny Wishes You a Happy Birthday
It was only fitting that the family's pets made an appearance at the party.
Read All About
Jenny found copies of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and Tom Sawyer at Target for only a dollar! She wrapped each book with strips of plaid flannel, tied them with leather, and tucked in a feather to create the perfect party favor.
Sweet Send-Off
Jenny tied some cookies in twine to send home with guests.
The Birthday Boy
Jenny says her son Hudson had an amazing time at his party. So much so that she's thinking of giving his bedroom a Huck Finn makeover. We can't wait to see the finished product!