Summer is the season for parties. I thought it fitting that I share my collection of vintage party books to get us in the mood.
Parties with Purpose, Published by Dennison in 1937. This little gem features ideas for parties with titles such as "Kitchen Candy Pull" or Texas Hoe-Down".
With the Fourth of July around the corner I thought I we could use some table-scape inspiration. Giant firecrackers made from ice cream containers and crepe paper.
Party Book (with darling cover illustration) published by the Saalfield Pub. Co. in 1937
Perhaps I should make some Fourth of July hats using this pattern.
Let's Give a Party, Wonder Books, 1960
The Campbell Kids Have a Party, Rand McNally Books, 1954
This is one of my favorite party books. Children's Party Book, which was published by the Staley's Cream Corn Starch Company.
The illustrations are magical. Here are the pages for the Fourth of July festivities. It suggests serving "Cannon Cracker Sandwiches", which are white bread, white cream cheese and red jelly. Roll them up and tie with a ribobn.
Easy to Make Centerpieces and Favors Using Odds and Ends.
Another idea for the Fourth. They make their giant firecracker centerpiece from an oatmeal box and construction paper.
Gay Decorations with Dennison Crepe Paper, published by Dennison in 1953.
This book is the go-to book with crepe paper decorations. Here we have some ideas for a patriotic occasion.
Last but not least, Party Favors and Decorations, Published by Oregon State College in 1956.
I love the section on the CORRECT way to cover a nutcup...I did not know there was a right or wrong way.
Party time and hope you are inspired to throw an amazing one this summer! If you have an idea for a future collection challenge, leave me a comment and finish the sentence "Show me your collection of ____."
happy day!
I'm your twin when it comes to this collection. I have stacks of them in my craft room for inspiration. Renee sent me the Children's Party Book (published by the Staley's Cream Corn Starch Company) last year. The illustrations are just gorgeous.
Party ON!!
Posted by: Kim Kenward | June 19, 2012 at 08:32 AM
oh i love these! i think my favorite is the one about making centerpieces with odds and ends! i used to throw lots of parties, but got kind of burnt out. I think i need to start again!
Posted by: rae | June 19, 2012 at 09:09 AM
What a fun collection Laurie. I bet you get tons of inspiration from these books.
Posted by: Danielle @ Blessed Serendipity | June 19, 2012 at 09:20 AM
Love that Saalfield Pub. Co. They seem to have had some wonderful illustrators. This is a collection that could be very handy. Something I am sure you reference often! Have a wonderful party filled day...smiles...Renee
Posted by: Renee | June 19, 2012 at 09:51 AM
No party for me... I'm too worried people will talk about the improper way I covered my nutcups and purposelessness of the party!
The Campbell Kids look pretty cute -- don't think I've seen that little book. The hunt goes on...
Posted by: janet | June 19, 2012 at 10:06 AM
Oh, I have some books like that around. I need to pull them out and try some of the ideas. Thanks for the inspiration! And yes, you do need to make the party hat!
Posted by: Kathy | June 19, 2012 at 12:07 PM
A very fun and very unusual collection. Has it occured to you that you collect collections?
:>)
Posted by: Annette | June 19, 2012 at 05:23 PM
What a fun collection of party books! The Campbell kids are so cute! Let's see... Show me your collection of tin canister or tin trash cans. xo Heather
Posted by: Heather | June 19, 2012 at 06:12 PM
What a great collection!!! Your collections never cease to amaze me!!
chris
Posted by: chris mckinley | June 19, 2012 at 07:05 PM
Holy Moley did you ever get a lot of great things from the estate sales! I see collection challenges in their futures.
So glad you saw my post about your creAtions! My own crafts never leave my craft room, but yours can be found sprinkled all about. They make eVeryone smile!
Have a great weekend! E
Posted by: Elizabeth | June 20, 2012 at 06:40 AM
As always your collections are magical.
Sheryl
Posted by: Sheryl Remy | June 20, 2012 at 10:13 AM
Hi, just wanted to say it was nice seeing you at Glory Days Antiques on Tuesday. I saw you at Farm Chicks, but was unable to get over to you. Hope you liked the shop! Debbie, Station 521
Posted by: Debbie | June 20, 2012 at 11:29 AM