Vintage Kids’ Parties And Supplies

How to Host a Vintage Kids’ Party – Nostalgic Celebration.

Importance of choosing a vintage theme for a memorable kids’ party

Choosing to hold a vintage theme for a kids’ party can make the celebration truly memorable by adding a timeless charm and uniqueness. Adding your own personal touch to the event will make it extra special for them.

Nostalgic Appeal: Vintage themes often evoke feelings of nostalgia, serving as a reminder to parents and grandparents of their own childhood. This often creates a connection across 2 generations – and makes the event more meaningful for everyone involved.

Unique Aesthetic: Vintage décor, costumes, and games provide a distinct and unified look that stands out from modern, often tech-focused parties. The classic colors, patterns, and materials of the time add a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Interactive Activities: Traditional games and activities associated with a vintage theme – such as sack races, hopscotch, or homemade crafts, encourage a more hands-on interaction among the kids, creating lasting memories.

Timeless Photography: The vintage theme lends itself beautifully to photography. The classic decor, attire, and props can result in charming, timeless photos that will be cherished for years to come, so bring out the single lens reflex camera (if you still have one), and point-and-shoot.

Creative Flexibility: Vintage themes can be tailored to different eras, like the 1920’s, 1950’s, or 1970’s, with each offering unique elements in terms of fashion, music, and entertainment. This certainly allows for a wide range of creative possibilities.

Overall, a vintage theme adds a special, memorable touch that can resonates with both adults and children, and adults, making the occasion a hit.

Curating vintage party supplies: sourcing authentic decorations and tableware

To curating authentic vintage party supplies can be both a challenging but rewarding task. I’ve prepared this guide to help you source some genuine decorations and tableware for your special event.

Antique Stores or Flea Markets

Focus: Look for glassware, porcelain pieces, linens, and unique decor items from different eras, but remember to check the quality before purchasing.

Tips: Visit stores or markets that specialize in mid-century, Art Deco, or retro items – depending on your theme.

Estate Sales and Auctions

Focus: Estate sales often have entire authentic collections of vintage household items, making it easier to find matching sets, however be mindful on the cost – as it may not be in everyone’s budget?

Check auction listings online, and make inquiries to attend local estate sales for particular bargains on larger quantities such as table cloths, candelabras or centerpieces.

Online Marketplaces

eBay, Etsy, and Ruby Lane: These platforms are excellent for finding authentic vintage tableware, glassware, and decorations. Etsy have a great selection of vintage glass ware and glass items – take a look here.

Tips: Use specific search terms like “1950’s dinnerware,” “Art Deco centerpieces,” or “vintage lace tablecloths” to narrow your search for a particular item. Online you can find many vintage table cloths of all sorts in this selection.

Thrift Stores and Charity Shops

Focus: These are treasure troves for vintage finds if you’re patient and consistent. Allow enough time prior to your event to delve into a variety of these stores.

Tips: Regular visits to these shops increase your chances of finding unique items as stock can change daily.

Specialty Retailers

Reproductions: Some companies specialize in high-quality reproductions of vintage items like furniture pieces or even clothing – which can be a good alternative to something authentic.

Tips: Look for retailers that offer themed collections inspired by different decades, and make online inquiries before you venture out – to be specific on what you need.

DIY and Upcycling

Focus: Repurpose vintage fabrics, glass bottles, and old picture frames to create unique decorations. Use glue or staple guns to secure a collage or anything upholstered.

Tips: Combine authentic pieces with handmade items to maintain the vintage feel while being cost-effective if you’re crafting from scratch.

Community Groups and Forums

Facebook Groups and Reddit: Join groups dedicated to vintage collecting where members often buy, sell, or trade items. Where you can also give advice or get opinions on certain things.

Tips: Engage with a community forum to learn more about sources and trends.

By mixing these sourcing strategies, you can gather a cohesive collection of authentic vintage party supplies that perfectly capture the charm of your chosen era, or gain food for thought?

Incorporating vintage-themed games and activities

Remember the old games we used to play as kids? well by incorporating some classic games and activities – this can really create a memorable addition to any vintage party.

Pin the Tail on the Donkey: A classic party game that has been enjoyed for generations. You can create or buy a vintage-style donkey poster and use fabric or paper tails. Use thumb tacks not velcro – keeping in with this nostalgic skill and theme of the game. A modern version of this game with poster can be sourced right here today.

Ring Toss: Use vintage-style bottles or wooden pegs with rings made of rope or metal. Secure the bottle or peg to a board, omitting glass for obvious reasons. This game is simple yet fun for all ages.

Sack Races: Burlap sacks made of hessian, sisal or jute add a nostalgic feel. Make sure the sacks do not have any holes before using. Set up a race area and let the kids hop their way to the finish line. A variety of sack race bags can be found here at Amazon.

Egg and Spoon Race: Use wooden spoons and real or wooden eggs for an old-fashioned relay race. You can substitute wooden eggs for plastic table tennis balls, but using real eggs makes it more challenging. Wooden or imitation eggs are located here for your purchase.

Musical Chairs: Play classic tunes from a vintage record player (or from a modern speaker with a vintage playlist) while the kids compete for chairs in a circular pattern.

Treasure Hunt: Create a map on light cardboard paper that looks aged – and have the kids search for hidden treasures. Use vintage items like old keys, coins, or small toys as the hidden treasures. If you want to buy an old map already drawn up – look no further than this lot today.

Hoop Rolling: Provide kids with wooden or metal hoops and sticks, and have them race while rolling the hoops along the ground—a classic Victorian-era pastime. Hoola hoops can be used as substitutes if it’s not possible to get vintage types.

Marbles: Set up a game of marbles with vintage glass marbles and teach the kids how to play this historic game by using strings to form a ring. Scroll through this selection of toys to find the marbles you desire.

Tin Can Alley: Stack vintage-style cans on a shelf or low table and let the kids knock them down with bean bags or softballs.

Three-Legged Race: Pair up the kids, tie their legs together with vintage-style cloth or old pantyhose, and have them race together.

These games can be both entertaining and a delightful nod to the past, making the party memorable for everyone.

Menu ideas: Classic treats and refreshments that fit the vintage theme

For a vintage-themed event, classic treats and refreshments are a must – evoking a nostalgic feel. Check out some of these old world menu ideas:

Sweet Treats

Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting: Simple yet timeless, topped with sprinkles or cherries.

Homemade Pies: Apple, cherry, and pecan pies served in mini sizes or slices. Here are some sweet vintage party recipes you may want to consider when hosting a kids party at home.

Ice Cream Floats: Root beer or cola floats served in vintage soda glasses, also known as Spiders.

Sugar Cookies: Shaped like stars, hearts, or animals – with pastel icing.

Candy Bar: Set up jars with classic candies like rock candy, licorice, all sorts and saltwater fruit chews.

Brownies: Simple, fudgy brownies cut into squares, possibly topped with walnuts or desicated coconut.

Savory Snacks

Finger Sandwiches: Classic cucumber, egg salad, or ham and cheese sandwiches cut into triangles.

Deviled Eggs: A vintage staple, often with a sprinkle of paprika or parsley. Savory party food recipes are available for purchasing today.

Cheese and Crackers: An assortment of cubed cheeses paired with classic crackers like Ritz.

Pigs in Blankets: Mini frankfurt sausages wrapped in puff pastry and baked.

Refreshments

Lemonade Stand: Freshly squeezed lemons, lemonade, possibly with a few flavored options like strawberry or mint and sweetener, served over ice.

Iced Tea: Sweetened or unsweetened, served with lemon slices.

Punch Bowl: A fruity punch made with sherbet powder, ginger ale or lemonade and fruit slices.

Milkshakes: Vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry topping shakes made with full cream milk and ice-cream served in tall glasses.

These treats and refreshments not only taste delicious but also perfectly fit the nostalgic, vintage vibe.

 

Tips for setting the perfect vintage ambiance: music, lighting, and decor

To set the perfect vintage ambiance, always place focus on these three elements: music, lighting, and decor.

Music:

Era-Specific Playlists: Curate playlists that reflect the decade you’re focusing on. For a 1920’s vibe, play jazz and swing music. For the 1950’s, opt for rock ‘n’ roll, country and western, and early pop hits. Vinyl records or music with a crackling effect – can really enhance authenticity.

Live Instruments: If possible, consider hiring a small band or musician to play vintage tunes. A solo pianist, a jazz trio, or a swing band can add an immersive live element to any vintage party.

Lighting:

Warm, Soft Lighting: Avoid bright overhead lights such as fluorescents. Instead, use warm, dim lighting to create a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere. Edison bulbs, string lights, or vintage-style lamps can provide the right glow.

Candles and Lanterns: For an intimate feel, incorporate candles in holders, lanterns, or hurricane lamps. Flame-less candles are a modern safe alternative that still offers a vintage effect. A variety of candles and lanterns can be found at Amazon, look at the styles available today.

Colored Filters: If you want to capture the feel of specific decades, use colored gels or filters over lights. (Cellophane is a cheap but effective temporary alternative). For instance, a soft sepia or amber tone can evoke the 1920’s, while pastel filters might suit a 1960’s theme. Big selection of cellophane light filters can be purchased for your convenience here.

Decor:

Authentic Pieces: Source or rent period-specific items like vintage radios, record players, and old telephones. Antique mirrors, picture frames, and clocks can also add to the theme.

Furniture: Use retro furniture styles like mid-century modern for a 1950’s or 1960’s theme, or ornate Victorian pieces for earlier periods. For a cozy vibe, include overstuffed armchairs and vintage-patterned tablecloths.

Tableware and Linens: Choose dishware, glassware, and linens that reflect the era. For example, floral or lace tablecloths and vintage china for an Edwardian theme, or bright, atomic-age patterns for a 1950’s theme. Great varieties of dinner ware can be bought here including Miffy, Disney and Beatrix Potter melamine sets. Look at these cute table cloths selling today.

Vintage Posters and Photos: Decorate walls with period-appropriate posters, advertisements, and framed black-and-white photographs. Scroll through the large selection as you choose your perfect images here.

Bonus Tip:

Scent: Incorporate scents that evoke the era, like floral perfumes, tobacco, or leather for an old-world feel. Essential oil diffusers or scented candles can subtly add this layer without going overboard trying to find actual scents or incorporating tobacco into the mix. Classic style diffusers and oils are bought online, look at the selections you can choose from.

Each element should work together to transport guests back in time, creating an immersive experience.

 

Unique invitation ideas that set the tone for a vintage party

Formal invitations set the stage for a vintage themed party. Here are some unique invitation ideas to capture the vintage vibe:

Postcards from the Past: Design invitations that look like old-fashioned postcards, complete with sepia-toned images, vintage fonts, and faux postage stamps. The backs can include event details with a handwritten-style font. Classic vintage post cards resembling the bygone era can be found here.

Antique Book Pages: Create invitations that resemble pages torn from an old book. Use aged paper, or torn out sections with classic fonts – add borders or embellishments that evoke the style of early 20th-century literature.

Vinyl Record Sleeves: For a music-themed vintage party, design invitations that mimic old vinyl record sleeves, or purchase the sleeves at a garage or car boot sale. Write party details on a “record label” inside using a texta – adding to a classic retro design. Record sleeves are found in white or black where you can put your own personal stamp on as you please, here.

Vintage Telegrams: Send out invitations styled as vintage telegrams, using typewriter fonts on pastel paper – ensuring minimalist layouts. You can even deliver them in envelopes with wax seals to add an extra touch of authenticity.

Old Newspaper Clippings: Design invitations that resemble clippings from a vintage newspaper. Include headlines that announce the party. Cut and paste columns of event details in a classic newspaper font.

Retro Ticket Stubs: For a movie or event-themed vintage party, create invitations that look like retro ticket stubs, using a template or trace images from an online image. Use bright, bold colors and include event details like date, time, and “admit one.” Vintage ticket stubs can be used for games or anything you like – I found some great classics here.

Tea-Stained Letters: For a more elegant touch, handcraft invitations using tea-stained paper to give them an aged look. Once the paper is fully dried, write the details in calligraphy or a vintage font, and consider tying them with a vintage ribbon or sealing them with bees wax.

Vintage Postage and Stationery: If you want to mail your invitations, use vintage-inspired stationery and add real vintage postage stamps (if you have old stamps lying around) for an authentic feel. The stamps can be carefully selected (or visit your local Post Office for more advice) – to match your party theme. Airmail and “blank canvas” stationary in sepia can be sourced online – learn more about these here.

As an affiliate I may receive a commission when you click on a link and purchase through this site.

These invitation ideas not only set the tone but also give your guests a glimpse of the unique experience they’re about to enjoy!

Dressing up: Costume ideas and suggestions for kids and adults

Dressing up is half the fun if you’re hosting a vintage-themed event. Costume wearing can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike – capturing the charm and nostalgia of past eras. Here are some costume ideas and suggestions to consider.

For Kids:

Victorian-Era:

Girls: Gathered waist dresses with puffed sleeves, tights, lace gloves, and bonnets. Girls Victorian attire is located here – learn more about these gorgeous designs today.

Boys: Knickerbockers, waistcoats, long sleeved shirts and caps. Boys Victorian and steampunk attire is also located through the same store online.

1920’s Flapper and Dapper Gentlemen:

Girls: Sleeveless fringe dresses, feathered headbands, long beaded necklaces, satin gloves, and Mary Jane or flat T-Bar shoes. Learn more about kids flapper dresses through these selections. Cute as a button Mary Jane shoes for girls are sourced here online.

Boys: Pinstriped suits, bow ties, and newsboy caps. Buy your kids newsboy caps here. 2 piece suits and waistcoats can be bought online today.

1930’s Newsboy: Caps, suspenders, knee-length shorts, button-up shirts, and bow ties. Boys accessories are bought through here – scroll through the colour choices available today. Assorted buttoned shirts are found here as well.

1950’s Greasers and Pink Ladies:

Boys: Leather or denim jackets, white T-shirts, cuffed jeans, and slicked-back hair with gel or brylcreme. Cute boys jackets including bomber are found here – look at the styles in stock.

Girls: Poodle or swing skirts, buttoned cardigans, pastel blouses, saddle or oxford shoes, and a scarf tied around the neck. If oxfords are inappropriate – you can substitute for black or brown lace shoes. Located some great poodle skirts and dresses here at Amazon for your selection.

Classic Storybook Characters:

Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, Little Red Riding Hood, or Robin Hood. Classic story book costumes including Willy Wonka, Paddington Bear and Red Riding Hood are located here, learn more about what else they stock today.

For Adults:

Victorian Gothic or Steampunk

Women: Corsets, peasant tops, ruched long skirts, lace gloves, adorned top hats, and ankle boots. Many Victorian dress costumes including Jane Austin styles are found here online. Victorian inspired boots have a great selection at Amazon today.

Men: Tailcoats, top hats, cravats or bow ties and walking canes. Look no further than these affordable hats today. Tailcoats come in all styles – look at these. Bow ties and cravats – something for all tastes, are also here. And last but not least the walking cane – found these for your consideration.

Roaring ’20’s Gatsby Style:

Women: Flapper dresses, pearls, feathered headbands, long gloves and T-strap heels. Gorgeous flapper dresses can be found through Zapaka online, look what I found. Larger sizes are here. Accessories they have as well. T.strap heels are through this store online.

Men: Pinstripe 3 piece suits, fedoras, ties, pocket squares and two-tone shoes. Men’s 3 piece and gatsby striped suits are sourced through this store online. Fedora or Trilby hats are also located here. You’ll find some oxfords amongst these to complete the look. Not forgetting the pocket squares – here are many that I found.

1940’s Wartime Era:

Women: Victory rolls, tea dresses in block colours, and seamed stockings. Tea dresses are sought here with Retro Stage online. Some plus sizes are bought here online.

Men: Military uniforms, berets, or workwear with suspenders and newsboy caps. Modern military inspired uniforms are available through Amazon. While at Etsy you can find old military uniforms available now. A large selection of newsboy caps are here for your perusal.

1950’s Rock ‘n’ Roll:

Women: Full skirts with petticoats, cinched belted waists, bobby socks with ballet flats or wedges and cat-eye glasses. Full skirts and poodle styles are found here – take a look. A few assorted styles of ballet flats are located at Amazon today. Get your catty glasses right here online.

Men: Elvis-style slim outfits, bowling shirts, brogues and pompadour hairstyles. Classic 50’s bowling shirts are located here – take a look. Brogue 50’s shoes look great complimenting any outfit.

1960’s Hippie Vibes:

Women/Men – Flowing paisley print dresses, bell-bottoms, open vests, tie dyed shirts, boots, peace sign accessories, and headbands. Look into these wild styles at Amazon today – get your hippy style on. Loud or tie dyed shirts are sought right here. Some tassle hippy vests are located amongst this lot. Modern and vintage peace signs are bought here online. Here are an assortment of headbands for you to peruse.

Additional Tips:

Accessorize: Vintage accessories such as pearls, hats, stockings, gloves, ties and suspenders can elevate any costume.

Hair and Makeup: Ladies consider period-appropriate hairstyles and makeup, such as finger waves for the ’20’s or beehive hair for the ’60’s.

Mix and Match: You can blend elements from different eras to create unique, eclectic vintage inspired looks.

These costume ideas will help set the perfect nostalgic mood for any vintage-themed event.

Sharing memories: Creating a nostalgic photo booth and keepsakes for guests

By creating a nostalgic photo booth, and keepsakes for guests – is a wonderful way to capture memories at your vintage-themed event. Many ideas come to mind, but some in particular are:

Nostalgic Photo Booth Ideas

Vintage Backdrops: Use old wallpaper patterns, retro floral prints, or classic brick walls as backdrops. You can also hang vintage frames, lace curtains, or repurposed wooden doors of which many can be sourced at antique or specialty shops. Scroll through these awesome backdrops available to you today.

Personalized Postcards: Print the photos as vintage postcards with a thank-you note on the back. Guests can send them back to you, or keep them as a memento.

Props: Include vintage props like hats, bow ties, pearl necklaces, rotary phones, typewriters, gramophones, and old cameras. A few items from the specific decade of your theme will add an authentic touch. Here are some vintage inspired props to jazz up your party if the real deal is unobtainable.

Polaroid or Instant Cameras: provide instant cameras for guests to capture their own shots. This adds to the nostalgic feel and provides guests with a tangible memento. Get snap happy with this selection of cool instant cameras.

Sepia or Black & White Filters: If using a digital camera, add filters to give the photos a timeless, vintage look, or add these filters when editing images and prior to printing.

Keepsake Ideas for Guests

Photo Strips: If you are able to – hire a vintage-style photo booth that prints out photo strips. Guests can take these home as a fun keepsake.

Customized Frames: Distribute small, ornate frames for guests to place their photo strips or prints in if you can or simply search for bulk small frames in raw wood – providing a “uniform” style that you can personalize with the event’s date and theme. Try these cute antique looking photo frames as gifts for your guests.

Memory Albums: Set up a station where guests can glue their photo strips into a scrapbook, leaving a note or message. This can be a collective keepsake for the host, or upload a shared digital copy for all guests within a social private group. Scrap book or vintage albums are available to hold your special memories today.

Vintage Keychains: Offer key-chains with small frames where guests can insert a photo strip or picture from the event. These keychains are located at Amazon, look at the varieties available.

These unique ideas will help create a nostalgic atmosphere that guests will remember fondly long after the event.

Sustainable and budget-friendly ways to host a vintage-themed party

Hosting a vintage-themed party in a sustainable and budget-friendly way can be both creative and rewarding. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

Thrift and Reuse

Decorations: Visit thrift stores, garage sales, and flea markets to find authentic vintage decorations like tablecloths, glassware, and serving trays, making it unique and cost friendly.

Furniture: Repurpose old furniture pieces or borrow items from friends and family to create a nostalgic setting.

Clothing: Encourage guests to thrift, borrow or craft vintage clothing for the event.

DIY Decorations

Bunting and Banners: Use fabric scraps, old table cloths or bed-sheets to make DIY bunting and banners. Vintage party bunting or banners are sold here – take a look what’s available.

Tableware: Repurpose jars, bottles, and tin cans as vases or candle holders.

Paper Goods: Create invitations, menus, lanterns and signs from recycled paper, using vintage-inspired designs.

Eco-Friendly Tableware

Biodegradable Options: If you need disposable items, choose biodegradable plates, cups, and cutlery made from recycled paper, bamboo or palm leaves.

Cloth Napkins: Use cloth napkins instead of paper to add a touch of elegance while reducing waste.

Local and Seasonal Menu

Farmers Market Ingredients: Source ingredients locally and choose seasonal produce to minimize your carbon footprint.

Homemade Treats: Make classic homemade treats that align with the vintage theme, like pies, lemonade, jam or finger sandwiches.

Digital Invitations

Online Invites: Send digital invitations to reduce paper waste, use Canva or similar DIY custom printing to create vintage-inspired designs to set the tone.

Social Media: Create an event page or group to share updates and details with guests.

Rent Borrow or Craft

Rent Vintage Items: If you need specific vintage pieces, consider hiring them instead of buying. This can help reduce costs and waste. But don’t forget to return them on the next business day.

Borrow or Craft yourself: Ask around to see if friends or family have vintage items you can borrow, if you are not able to craft them yourself (using 2nd hand fabrics or remnants).

By focusing on secondhand, DIY, and eco-friendly options, you can create an authentic vintage atmosphere that’s both sustainable and kind to your budget.

 

It's been a particularly fun topic to cover - and I hope you got something out of it as much as I did.

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Many thanks

Helen

 

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