Pumpkin Party

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELISSA JILL STYLED BY PETITE PARTY STUDIO

The pumpkin carving tradition gets a little tricky when there are tiny tots to consider. Held at the DenMar estate in Mesa, Arizona, Veteran mamas and owners of Petite Party Studio show a way to navigate this pumpkin predicament that’s both knife and mess-free.

Activity Spray paint pumpkins with chalkboard paint and allow plenty of time to dry. Set out colored chalk, and little ones can decorate pumpkins to their heart’s content.

Decor Hang a printable “Happy Halloween” banner with twine in front of a dessert table or on the front porch. (Download available from Petite Party Studio on Etsy.) A bold print gallery wall comprises the backdrop, and the black and white theme pops up throughout the party, from soda wrappers and straws to plates and invitations.

Menu Cake pops by Inspired Sugar are displayed in a foam pumpkin atop a cake pedestal. Don’t forget to whip up a batch of homemade apple dip (page 32)!

Favors Along with their decorated pumpkins, paper trays loaded with caramel bags and apples make a DIY favor for kiddos to take home.