Kids’ birthday parties are so over the top these days! Gourmet cakes, bounce houses, performers, and don’t even get me started on the goodie bags. Don’t get me wrong – I appreciate a good party. I just don’t think every single birthday should be a big blow-out. Think back to your own childhood, what do you remember about birthdays? My best memories are of eating pizza, and sucking in helium from balloons to hear my voice magically transform into Donald Duck (I’m not endorsing doing this by any means!). Simple times, simple times. When it comes to your own kids’ birthday parties, why spend more money than you have, just to keep up with the Jones’s? Check out my Frugal Friday tips to throwing a simple birthday party on a dime:
Host it at home – Your house is the perfect, free venue.
Dollar decorations – Do not, I repeat, do not buy all of your party needs from a party store. This stuff is disposable, so there’s no need to invest in it. The dollar store, Target, and Wal-Mart have everything you need for a dollar: plates, plastic-ware, balloons, tablecloths, streamers, candles, the list goes on.
Homemade treats – I almost always make my own cupcakes for kids’ parties. Because, guess what? Kids don’t care if they’re eating a $5 red velvet cupcake from a boutique bakery, or a Betty Crocker one you made in your own oven. I also make my own toppers by printing themed pictures, gluing them to straws, and sticking them in the cupcakes. My out-of-the-box Thomas cupcakes look almost professional, no?
Pinterest! – Just do a simple search of your theme. Prepare to be inspired. You’ll be surprised how many free printables are available. Throwing a frugal birthday party has never been easier.
What are your tips and tricks for keeping party costs down?
