Greenville, SC Editorial Photographer | Dani Lacey Photographs
Throwing a summer bash?
There’s nothing better than a poolside party filled with color, custom details, and cool treats. Especially when it’s done by House of Fete! Kelsey and Marissa are a dream team, and each time I photograph with them it’s my new favorite party, Whether you’re planning a birthday celebration or just want an excuse to soak up the sun, here’s all the pool party style inspiration you need to create a kids pool party that feels both elevated and playful.
Invite+ Pringles Design by Itsy Bitsy Parties & Flat Lay Styling and Hosted by Kelsey Klos
There’s something undeniably magical about a well-styled pool party
The kind that feels effortless but looks like it stepped off the pages of a summer editorial. Think bold colors, curated snack stations, and a laid-back vibe that invites everyone to jump in (literally and figuratively).
Start with a cohesive color palette — something that pops against the pool’s blue water. Incorporate playful elements like custom towels, oversized floaties, and personalized party favors to instantly elevate the vibe. Don’t forget the food: a colorful fruit board, fun-shaped cookies, and a cooler full of icy pops make for the kind of setup that’s as functional as it is photogenic. Add florals, fans, or signature drinks to take it even further.
But the real magic? It’s in creating a space where people can relax, laugh, and make memories. A well-designed pool party isn’t just about style — it’s about joy. So lean into the theme, make it your own, and let summer do the rest.
Floats by Bello Sole
If you’re planning for kids
Keep it playful but elevated. Curated favor kits with sunscreen, mini hairbrushes, or lip balm tucked into clear pouches are both cute and useful. Striped towels in coordinated hues can double as decor draped over chairs, while popsicle stations and floaties make for instant fun. It’s those thoughtful, creative touches that make the party feel intentional — without overcomplicating the day.
And of course, don’t forget the photo moments. Whether it’s a fruit-filled table setup, a balloon arch, or kids mid-cannonball, your styling creates the story your camera gets to capture. Design your layout with both beauty and function in mind, then let the candid energy of the day fill in the rest.
Custom Embroidery by Nottingham Embroidery | Tags by Chalk Designs by Me
No pool party is complete without something sweet
Custom sugar cookies are the perfect way to bring personality into the dessert table. Kelsey went with cheeky swimsuit shapes, flamingo floaties, and bold summer colors that tied into the party’s palette. Not only did they look adorable on display, but they also doubled as edible party favors (and yes, they tasted as good as they looked).
For the main course, keep it simple and nostalgic: hot dogs, but make it cute. A vintage-style hot dog steamer stole the show and made it easy to serve up lunch without fuss. Guests could grab a dog, add their own toppings, and head straight back to the pool. It was casual, self-serve, and felt like a classic summer cookout — elevated with just a hint of retro flair.
Fans + table runners Cami Monet | Cookies Royally Iced | Favors Vacation Inc.
To top it all off
Designed custom t-shirts for each guest to wear (or tie up over swimsuits) is always fun. Whether screen printed with playful slogans or personalized with names, it added a uniform touch in the best way. The shirts can become a take-home souvenir to make everyone feel part of the club — because when the vibe is Summers Club Only, you want everyone to remember they were on the list.
Acrylics by Acrylic Sticks
Florals Florals Floras
While they might not be the first thing you think of for pool party style inspiration, they always make all the difference. Kelsey used bright, cheerful blooms in sunset tones like coral, fuchsia, and golden yellow to add a punch of color to the tables and favor displays. Whether tucked into a bold vase or casually arranged in a scalloped bowl, the flowers brought a fresh, editorial feel that balanced the playful elements with something a little more refined. It’s a small touch that made a big visual impact — and totally transforms a space or setting.
Whatever you are planning
The key is in the details that make it feel personal and unforgettable. From curated snack spreads to playful t-shirts and popsicle carts, it’s all about creating moments that feel as good as they look. Ready to bring your own pool party vision to life? I hope this pool party style inspiration helps you design your own celebration!
Napkins by Suburban Soiree | Party Supplies Shop Sweet Lulu | Location is The Club at Pine Forest
Love what you see?
If you’re planning a pool party and want every vibrant, joy-filled detail captured with editorial flair, I’d love to photograph it for you. My work are all about styling moments that feel like magic — and turning them into images you’ll never forget.