Strong Man Carnival

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Strong Man Carnival Party Dessert Table
As Featured on Amy Atlas.


There are so many wonderful ideas that can be incorporated into a theme such as a carnival party. The key is to pick one element and emphasize it. Our inspiration for this carnival was The Great Alberto canvas shown below. The idea of a strong man theme resonated as the party was intended as a celebration of strength, determination & progress.

The youngest birthday boy, Ryan age 4 has been challenged with a neurological disorder known as Apraxia. This disorder affects the muscles that relate to speech. Since before the age of 2 Ryan has been in therapy to improve this neuro- muscular challenge. Now at the age of 4, his speech communication progress is miraculous in great part thanks to his own strength of character and tenacity and the good work of his dedicated speech therapists. As a way to give thanks to the speech program that Ryan so greatly benefits from,  the brothers Jack 8, and Ryan 4, agreed to share a big birthday party and in lieu of gifts, asked guests to make a donation directly to the non profit Speech Program (see invitation).

Many Bon Fortune friends and vendors participated to create a unique and fun carnival experience for all.  The boys uncle Ben, was an extraordinary DJ, spinning vintage vinyl calliope and carnival music from the barn loft. A gypsy wagon awaited adventurous children and told of fabulous good fortunes. The Great Alberto served as the backdrop to an inflatable set of barbells that made each child feel extraordinarily strong.  A photo booth backdrop & banner was set up by Whitney Hartmann Photography and guests were treated to a picture party favor donning hats and clown noses.

A happy clown twisted balloon animals, and put on a magical performance beside the charming child's tent.  Kids meandered through the farm and played old fashioned carnival games, earned prizes and enjoyed carnival fare, such as popcorn, peanuts, corn dogs, hot dogs, fresh lemonade and sweet treats by the jar full.  Both children and parents alike had a unique party experience and left with a bag full of goodies, balloons, and custom Strong Man theme cookies by Tiffany of Baked Perfection and the sweetest cupcakes from Violette Bake Shop.

Thanks to Shannon from To you From me for her styling services and gift of floral. and Jennifer Housh of Events by Milk & Honey Farms for all the amazing vintage props and trailer.  A special thanks to our charming gypsy, Chloe, and her band of friendly & lovely helpers. And thanks to Auntie Christine & Mike for the pink popcorn delivery and helium balloon duty, and Grandpa Tom for creating the ticket booth that will likely be reincarnated as an ice cream stand for a blog post this summer.  It was truly an affair of the heart for family and friends and Clarrisa Koenig photography captured many of the images here, along with Whitney from Whitney Hartmann Photography and we are so fortunate to be able to share these fabulous images and ideas with you.
Thank you to all. ~ Gina, Bon Fortune.
The Great Alberto from The Tent Merchant
Top Hat Novelties from Bon Fortune and Cookies by Baked Perfection 
Vintage Rentals, Props & Styling Services Courtesy Milk & Honey Farms 
We see amazing parties in your future. 

Custom Invitations by Brightside Prints                               

Old Fashioned Carnival Games!








Muslin Gift Bags from Bon Fortune 
Prizes and Favors




Children's Carnival Tent from The Tent Merchant

Pre Packaged Cotton Candy & Peanuts. Bags & Bows from Bon Fortune

Cupcakes by Violette Bakeshop in Golden Cups from Bon Fortune

Parasols & Paper Straws in every color at Bon Fortune

Lovely Floral & Table Top Styling by To You From Me


Cookies by Baked Perfection
Pickle bags from Bon Fortune
Milk & Honey Farms for Vintage Props



Corn Dog Bags & Wooden Utensils From Bon Fortune
"Make a Wish" Mobile from Bon Fortune
Carnival Balloons available at Bon Fortune
Custom Keepsake Clothes Pins graciously donated by Etched in Time LLC


Photography by Whitney Hartmann Photography & Clarissa Koenig Photography.


Party coordinator, stylist, favors and party supplies: Bon Fortune
Cupcakes and cake: Violette Bakeshop
Cookies: Baked Perfection
Floral Tabletop:  To You From Me
Props Rental & Styling Services: Milk & Honey Farm Trailer
Custom Clothes Pins: Etched in Time LLC
Invitations & Graphics: Brightside Prints
Carnival Tent & Strong Man Canvas: Tent Merchant