How to Save on Kids Birthday Parties
Kids birthday parties can be expensive!
When it’s all said and done, purchasing food, decorations, invites, entertainment, favors and a venue to host at can set you back hundreds – if not thousands of dollars. And that’s not counting the birthday presents!
But did you know you can host an awesome birthday party for just a fraction of that cost?
Here’s several tips to help you do just that:
Do Your Own Thing
We’ve all heard of keeping up with the Joneses, and this is one area where that is really unnecessary. No matter what type of parties are expected in your social circles, there are always ways to cut expenses without cutting quality. You CAN throw a great party on a budget so don’t think you need to impress. This is for your kids, not the neighbors!
Get Feedback From Your Kids
Don’t just assume that every kid wants a big birthday bash with clowns and ponies. Your child might be just as happy (if not more!) having their friends hang out at the neighborhood pool with ice cream and cake.
Ask your child what type of party they would like – big or small, friends or family, at home or somewhere else. You might be surprised at their answers!
Be Prepared with Cheap Party Decorations
You know when birthdays are coming up, so think ahead and be prepared!
Stock up on clearance gifts, favors and party supplies throughout the year. Think outside the box too – solid red cups and plates from Christmas or Valentines Day sales can work just fine at a Robot party, and pink or white wedding themed supplies would fit in perfectly for a Princess party.
Hit Your Dollar Store
The dollar store is a great place to stock up on cheap party decorations. They often have theme supplies – like tropical and patriotic stuff so you can easily do a theme party.
Look for streamers, balloons, banners and other items that can be used for multiple parties. Don’t forget the basics like plates, cups, napkins and utensils – you can often find these in fun colors or themes as well.
Be Creative With Your Use of Supplies
Get creative with how you use your party supplies! Borrow ideas from other parties you’ve attended or get inspiration from Pinterest – there are tons of great ideas out there.
For example, those solid red Solo cups from Christmas can easily double as robot eyes if you use a black Sharpie to draw on a pupil. You can also use mason jars or other glass containers as vases for flowers or centerpieces.
Think Outside the Box
There are lots of places other than party stores where you can find cheap party decorations. Check out your local dollar store, Target’s clearance aisle, the after-Christmas sales or even your own home!
You might be surprised at what you can find to use as decorations.
Cheap Places to Have a Kids Birthday Party
If your home is too small for hosting a party, look for creative low-cost solutions. Churches and community centers often rent out rooms inexpensively.
Even better, see if you can host your party at a city park or community pool. Or have your guest come out for pizza at a local restaurant – you won’t have to decorate and the food is inexpensive and a crowd favorite. They may even allow you to bring your own cake.
Save Money on Favors
Don’t feel like you need to send each child home with a bag full of goodies – there are so many creative things you can do instead.
Make a group craft part of the activities, and send each kid home with their own creation as a favor. Or host a scavenger hunt with candy for prizes. Homemade playdough or simple prizes from the dollar store make for great favors too!
Save on Cake
You really don’t have to spring for a designer cake. Make your own cupcakes and have the kids decorate them as a party activity. Set out bowls of colored frosting, sprinkles, edible glitter, and candy and let them go!
Or purchase a small professionally decorated cake, and order a simple sheet cake of the same flavor to serve. Small (clean) toys make great cake toppers and can even be sent home as party favors.
As you can see, you don’t need to spend a ton to throw a great party. There are always ways to save on kids birthday parties – no matter how big or how small – it all adds up. With a little creativity and some smart spending, you’ll be able to host a fun filled party that your child will remember for years to come!
