Cheap Party Supplies

From LoveToKnow Party

Cheap party supplies mean you don't have to compromise on the style of your celebration to save money.

Make your own party decorations to cut your party planning budget.

Sources for Cheap Party Supplies

Lower-priced supplies are available from a variety of sources. Plan ahead so you have time to shop around for the best deals.

Clearance

Buying from clearance stock can help you save on party supplies. This will require some advance planning, as you'll be buying Mardi Gras beads in April and Halloween décor in November. However, if you always watch for clearance tags as you shop, you can make your next party look fabulous without spending a lot of money.

Discount Retailers

Discount retailers, such as Walmart, Kmart and Target, often have lower prices on party supplies than dedicated party supply stores. Check out sale ads for additional discounts, especially in the weeks leading up to a holiday or special time, such as graduation season.

Dollar Stores

Dollar stores, 99 cent stores and similar deep discount retailers are a great source for cheap party supplies. For only a dollar, you can find streamers, party blowers, hats, banners, centerpieces, tableware, favors, balloons and more.

Homemade Party Supplies

Give your party supplies a personal touch by making your own. Free printable party decorations are a frugal option. Why buy a piñata when you can make your own? Instead of buying expensive party favors, send guests home with a bag of homemade candies or cookies.

Rent or Borrow

With rentals, you can enjoy significant savings compared to the cost of purchasing supplies for your party. If you only need an extra table, a few more chairs, or a particular serving piece, borrowing from friends and family members is another option.

Secondhand Shopping

If you enjoy shopping at garage sales or thrift stores, keep an eye out for potential party supplies. You may be surprised at your discoveries. Make sure disposable plates, napkins, cups and silverware are properly sealed, as you won't be able to wash them before use. Don't forget about the party potential of folding chairs, card tables, board games and other everyday household items.

Warehouse Stores

Warehouse stores can offer great savings on bulk quantities of food, supplies for serving food, paper goods, and even tables, chairs and tents for outdoor events. If you don't normally shop at these stores, make sure the cost of a membership doesn't outweigh the savings for your celebration.

Money Saving Tips

Keep these tips in mind before embarking on your quest for cheap party supplies:

Check the quantity to make sure you're getting the most for your money. It may be more cost-effective to buy a slightly more expensive package that contains twice as many cups or napkins.
Bulk isn't always the best deal. If you find party hats for 25 cents each, but you must buy twice as many hats as you actually need, a smaller package is likely a better fit for your budget.
When buying from an online retailer, look for free shipping offers and coupon codes before placing your order.
Share with friends and family. If you have leftovers at the end of a party, offer them to the next person planning a celebration.
Only buy a few thematic or character party supplies. If your daughter wants High School Musical party supplies, buy cups featuring her favorite characters and plain plates and napkins in a coordinating color.
If you rent or borrow supplies, be extra careful with them. You don't want cleaning or replacement fees to negate your savings.

Party supplies don't have to come at a high price. Take advantage of discount options for an event budget you'll want to brag about.

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