While a getaway is often welcome, sometimes staycations can feel just as nice — and why stop there? Summer can be filled with busy schedules, between weddings, events, traveling, and holidays, and sometimes you just want to hang in your own backyard or patio for an event — and have someone else do all the work for you.
Wonder & Whimsy is an event rental company in Kansas City, run by Parkville native Sara Garris. On top of her glamorous tablescapes and luxurious lounge set-ups, she specializes in tent rentals. Wonder & Whimsy offers large teepees or little bell tents, and they’ve been used for a whole range of things — bachelorette parties, engagement proposals, baby showers, birthday parties and even camping.
We sat down with Sara to brainstorm some party ideas for whatever special occasion you might have planned this summer — or, heck, even an ordinary but elevated night in.
Pool party
If you’ve got a backyard pool, Wonder & Whimsy has the perfect tropical decor to match. With colorful balloons, florals, fringe umbrellas, and woven grass poufs, you’re one step closer to the ultimate tiki party.
Royals watch party
Grab some extension cords and you’ve got a Royals watch party — in style! A Royals’ themed birthday party would also turn a big Royals fan into their biggest fan, like the one pictured here with kid-sized beds from The Little Teepee.
Backyard glamp
If you’re into the idea of camping, but not quite the execution, one of Sara’s bell tents is the perfect option for sleeping in a beautiful space, on an actual bed — but outdoors. It’s a great compromise for a relationship that is only half outdoorsy.
Downtown patio party at No Vacancy
No Vacancy is an aesthetically curated guesthouse in the Crossroads, and they’ve got a very stylish bar and patio. You can actually rent out the patio for your own private party and leave the decorating to Wonder & Whimsy. It’s the perfect vibe for vibing.
Sleepover
Whether it’s your kids’ birthday or you just want to treat them to something extra special, Wonder & Whimsy pairs up with local business The Little Teepee for a sleepover they’ll never forget. Sara sets up her tent and The Little Teepee provides these darling beds and linens. The themes are adorable, including leopard prints, tropical, mermaid, and movie-themed.
Wine tasting party
Whether it’s in a vineyard or your backyard, nothing pairs more with wine than a beautiful setting from which to drink it. Wonder & Whimsy collaborates with event rental company Good Stuff China, which has a stunning curation of vintage china so your wine glasses will be as Instagrammable as the rest of your picnic.
Luxury picnic
Maybe you don’t have the best outdoor space but still want to have a fun party at your favorite outdoor spot. Sara has set up picnics all over Kansas City, such as the lawn of the Nelson-Atkins, for folks celebrating a special occasion. This would be great fun at your favorite public park — just imagine this set-up at Loose Park!