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How to Plan the Perfect Party - Without Breaking the Bank

Updated: Oct 11, 2023



Are you a mom on a mission to throw the most unique, home birthday party but you're also worried about finances? Then stop stressing! I'm here to show you how you can turn even the smallest home space into a party wonderland without breaking the bank!!


Get ready to discover some budget-friendly party decorating ideas that will leave both your child and your wallet smiling.


Tip #1 - Plan Ahead!


We all know, that one of the biggest stresses of planning a home party, is deciding what theme we are going to do, and how to transform our home to look like, well, not home!


And, well, home, parties are the best when we want to save money! So, make sure you get budget and theme ideas early! Especially if we are tight on funds or just don't want to waste money with a super expensive and unnecessary party! Sooo... pick a decor budget and stick to it!!!


For this party, my daughter wanted Bratz, I decorated the dining area, and we won't talk about the full budget, since it was her 16th birthday but....


For all the decorations above, I spent about $36


$6.25 - 4 Packs of plastic tablecloths from Dollar Tree (2 black, 2 holographic tablecloths)

$12 - 160 Balloons (2 different packs on Amazon.com) *one was on sale

$1.25 - Confetti from Dollar Tree

$2.50 - Disco balloons from 5 at Dollar store

$8 -2 (2pk) Packs of fringe streamer from amazon.com

$6 - Large #16 balloons

$0 - Ballon strip (already had extra)


(You can spend less money, for this same look, however, I wanted specific balloons and I couldn't find them at the Dollar store.)


Tip #2 - Don't be afraid to be cheap!


Birthdays come every year! and though it is one of the best days of our lives, as parents, we still need to save money or maybe our budgets are tight! One of the best ways to save money is by shopping smart. Dollar Stores are filled with budget-friendly treasures that can transform any space into a festive paradise.


I try to get everything that I can from the dollar store! Make sure you have an idea of what items you will need before you go! This is why determining what area of you're home you are going to decorate is so important! Make sure you get enough stuff but don't overspend!


Grab some colorful tablecloths from the to instantly brighten up (or darken), your party area. In this case, I used them to cover the walls, and floor and darken the window! I also got disco balls and confetti from the Dollar Store.


“Balancing your money is the key to having enough.” – Elizabeth Warren

Tip #3 - Utilize Other party stores when necessary


Certain items won't be found at the Dollar store, at least this time, and that was okay! I still spent less than my planned budget for the decor, so I was satisfied! (If you really need to stick to the dollar store, do it! Don't be picky, make sure you improvise!)


I had a hard time finding pink or purple balloons so I went to Amazon! But, as we know, balloons are an absolute must for any birthday celebration, and luckily, they're incredibly affordable, no matter where you buy them! Grab a pack or two along with a balloon pump from your local dollar store. Inflate them and scatter them around the room for an instant pop of color and fun, create a balloon wreath or both!


Now, we already have a manual balloon pump, so no money was spent there! However, I'd highly recommend getting an electric one 😅


If needed, they have them on Amazon: Balloon pump - manual $2.99, electronic $19.99



Tip #4 - Make it all about your child!


Incorporate everything that they like into the decor if you can't decide on a theme!


To add that extra touch of pizzazz, sprinkle confetti all around the tables and floors. It's an inexpensive way to make everything feel more festive and celebratory.


And let's not forget about those big number balloons! You can find these at affordable prices on websites like Amazon.com. Choose the number that corresponds with your child's age, and inflate it with your balloon pump! Helium is not necessary!


Tip #5 - So let's get this Party started!!!


As you can see, with these budget-friendly party decorating ideas from local dollar stores and Amazon.com, you'll be able to create an unforgettable birthday celebration without spending a fortune. So go ahead and let your creativity flow while keeping those pennies in check - because throwing an amazing party shouldn't mean sacrificing financial peace of mind!


I hope you all enjoyed and can utilize some of my party planning tips! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and most importantly, leave your feedback!!


This theme was definitely a 10 out of 10!



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