Is it just us, or are we all craving a little bit of analog magic this summer?

Forget sleek, modern pool parties. Summer 2025 is all about leaning into nostalgia, getting outdoors (even if it’s just a styled backyard), and embracing a sense of playful adventure. Welcome to the rise of “Camp Whimsy.”

Think less “survival training” and more Wes Anderson movie set. It’s glamping meets scout troop, bringing a cozy, retro vibe to birthdays, unique bridal showers, or just an elevated weekend gathering with friends.

Here is how to channel the Camp Whimsy aesthetic for your next event, starting with the perfect invite.

The Vibe: Stylishly Outdoorsy

Camp Whimsy is all about curated rustic charm. The feeling of fireflies, s’mores, canvas tents, and patches sewn onto backpacks. It evokes memories of summer camp, but with a sophisticated, stylized twist. It’s playful enough for a kid’s 8th birthday “adventure,” but cool enough for an adult’s 30th “glamping getaway.”

The Color Palette: Earthy & Moody

To nail this look, step away from bright primary colors. The Camp Whimsy palette is rooted in nature but feels vintage.

• Deep Forest Greens: The anchor color.
• Mustard Yellows & Burnt Oranges: Like a sunset over a lake or a vintage bandana.
• Creamy Off-Whites: Think natural canvas or aged paper.

The Motifs: Setting the Scene

The visuals for this theme are incredibly fun to work with. We’re seeing a resurgence of retro illustrations featuring:

• Pennant flags and bunting
• Friendly woodland creatures (bears, foxes, and raccoons drawn in a storybook style)
• Pine trees and mountain ranges
• Vintage lanterns and canoes

The Invitation: Your Call to Adventure

For a theme this specific, your invitation does heavy lifting. It’s not just giving the date and time; it’s setting the entire atmosphere before the guests even arrive. An invitation featuring a rustic pennant flag or a retro “merit badge” design immediately tells your guests to pack their sense of adventure (and maybe bug spray). It transforms a standard RSVP into a “camper registration form.”

Whether you are planning a backyard campout under the stars or a weekend-long cabin retreat, let your invitation be the first spark that gets everyone excited around the (metaphorical) campfire.