Roll up, roll up and prepare to be dazzled, delighted, shocked and astounded. TLC’s latest inspiration guide takes a behind-the-scenes dive into a carousel fairground spectacular we organised. A 21st birthday party full of energy, pazazz and showmanship. If you’re looking for fairground inspired party ideas that are EXTRA in all the best ways, then, ladies and gentlemen, step this way for all the fun of the fair. TLC style of course.
CONJURING THE MAGIC
Our clients’ brief outlined a fantastical fairground adventure to celebrate their daughter’s 21st birthday. They wanted joyous moments. Bright, playful décor. Entertainment to remember and above all a completely immersive party experience that left their guests spellbound.
Talking of her vision for the theme, TLC’s chief executive Liz Taylor said:
“Fairgrounds bring out the childlike side in any of us. Our aim for this party to was to appeal to those nostalgic, magical memories that we all have. Time spent at the fairground, often with family, conjures up moments of pure, unfiltered delight. It’s a colourful, vibrant theme for a party, full of joyfulness. As event planners we decided to have as much fun as we wanted in the hope that our guests would too. And they certainly did…”
SETTING THE STAGE
The venue for this party was a huge marquee in Lancashire, that was completely transformed into a Victorian fairground attraction.
Our fairground inspired party ideas start from the moment guests arrive. The entrance to the room was formed of a giant illuminated archway to provide a feeling of grandeur within the theme as our revellers arrived in the party space. Our live actors dressed as fairground characters welcomed the guests. A ringmaster, clowns, acrobats and live performers began the spectacle before anyone had stepped foot in the building. immersive entertainment to transport guests to that fairground experience.
The room looked spectacular! Up lighting is one of our favourite ways to add dramatic detailing to a room and this one was no different. Blue, red and green lighting filled our arena, adding a sense of production and a layer of professional polish to the décor.
SENSATIONAL STYLING
The wealth of fairground inspired party ideas were carried throughout the room with various staging areas. Heavy red drapery created a decadent theatrical atmosphere and anticipation of a ‘Big Top’, where hand-painted backdrops and a photo booth were created. Our unique photo booth used the ‘postcard’ image of a jolly Victorian seaside lady and her ‘strongman’ as the backdrop. Just poke your head through and create a unique Instagrammable moment.
We added magnificent decorative chandeliers to these areas – underscoring the feeling of opulence. Table décor kept to the main colour theme of red and white with large floral arrangements in tall glass vases to add height and interest.
And as to how guests found their seats? Personalised ‘hook a duck’ toys provided a fun, opportunity for an interactive seating plan.
MOUTHWATERING MOMENTS
Our menu was of course hooked around all the fun of the fair, with playful dishes carrying through our theme into every inch of the party.
Most memorable were our signature cocktails which took the form of a vodka and tonic served in plastic zip bags with straws and plastic goldfish, just as you could win at the fairground back in the day. Popcorn-flavoured cocktails are served in individual popcorn boxes with covered on the top with popcorn! The smell and the taste screamed – fairground!
Dessert was “fairground” of desserts including a mini jam doughnut and a ball of pink and white ice cream on a stick …….
THE TLC GOLDEN TOUCH
EVERY one of our parties has a wow moment. Something unexpected. Unique. Spellbinding. A moment that is pure gold. Collapsible floors reveal a sunken dancefloor/party space, hidden rooms and secret speakeasies of fully immersive entrance spaces that start guests on a journey to a party beyond their wildest imagination.
This event was no exception and an open book in terms of opportunities to delight the crowd. Yet we still thought outside of the box for our Midas moment. The bar, a focal point in the centre of the room, was transformed into a huge rotating carousel. The circular shape allowed for 360-degree service from our ringmaster bartenders.
The cherry on the cake? Not only did our carousel rotate, but it also housed our DJ for the night. She was able to conduct the crowd from her lofty crow’s nest revolving above the bar.
SPREADING YOUR WINGS
If you’ve enjoyed this party theme inspiration guide, then how about using the delightful island of Majorca as your muse. Here’s everything you need to know about organising a destination event in Majorca: https://www.tlc-ltd.co.uk/destination-guide-mallorca/
THE LAST HURRAH
We knew we were on trend, but it appears we’re also ahead of our time. Even the Kardashians are bringing the fairground theme into their parties in 2024 https://www.ok.co.uk/lifestyle/kim-kardashian-shares-glimpse-inside-32058062