Halloween Party Supplies

Supply List

Tableware

Consider the following in getting ready to set your table:

• Plates
• Napkins
• Cups
• Eating utensils
• Serving bowls, plates and utensils
• Tablecloth

Use your party menu as a guide in determining exactly what supplies you will need. For instance, if you are serving ice cream, you will only need spoons, but cookies require no utensils at all.

Decorations

Decorations are a key part of your Halloween party supplies. Whether you plan a haunted house for adults, full of fake blood and body parts or a cheerful celebration for kids with smiling jack-o'-lanterns, decorations set the scene. You may want to buy:

• Streamers
• Balloons
• Confetti
• Character cutouts
• Fake spider webs
• Centerpieces
• Scary sounds effects and Halloween music

Games and Activities

When gathering your supplies, don't forget everything you will need for games and activities. Perhaps you need glass jars and candy corn for a Halloween-themed version of the clothespin drop, a pumpkin piñata, or paper plates, paint and glitter for mask making. Make a list, so you don't come up short after the event begins. Don't forget prizes and treats for the participants.

Where to Buy Halloween Party Supplies

Local

Party stores are the best place to shop for a large selection of products. In comparison, discount retailers, such as Wal-Mart, Kmart, and Target, may sell a smaller line of products, but the lower prices often make them worth a visit. For even better deals, check out the selection at local dollar stores. Craft stores are a great source for fun projects for kids to create during the party in addition to providing all the supplies you need to create unique centerpieces and other decorative elements. Check party rental stores for tables and chairs, larger props, and devices to produce special effects, such as a fog machine or strobe light.

Online

Visit the following sites for convenient online shopping and a large selection of supplies:

• Party America sells decorations, treats, and game kits.
• FrightCatalog.com offers spooky Halloween decorations, including bloody tablecloths, glow maggots and realistic tombstones.
• PartyCity sells everything you need to set your table, including themed plates, cups, and napkins, and everything you need to set the scene.
• ShinDigz will help you decorate with coordinated theme kits, while their decorative napkins, plates, and glasses let guests snack in style.
• Buycostumes.com sells more than just costumes. They also offer complete party kits, with everything from dessert plates to confetti, and themed decorating sets.

Tips for Cutting Costs

The following ideas can help you trim your party-planning budget:

• Avoid purchasing specialty holiday-themed tableware. One alternative is to decorate plain paper products with Halloween stickers. You can also make decorating a plain tablecloth a project for the kids or even an activity for the beginning of the party. Guests will be proud to eat on their creation.
• If you don't want to cut it out completely, consider whether every single piece of your tableware has to fit the theme. Will the kids really care if they wipe their hands on a plain white napkin instead of one decorated with pumpkins? Save the extra money for details that will last throughout the party, such as a spooky centerpiece.
• Use free printable Halloween decorations instead of buying paper and cardboard decorations. For instance, you can create large cutouts for your walls or use printable coloring sheets as a party activity.
• Buy in bulk. From peanut butter kisses to napkins, the larger the package, the smaller the per-unit price.
• Watch for sales and coupons. In the months leading up to Halloween, grocery stores will offer sales on candy and retailers will begin to discount tableware and decorations.

Halloween party supplies are the backbone of a successful celebration. Fortunately, there are options for every theme and budget.