Putting together the “perfect” party for your child’s birthday party can be a lot of fun, but if you get carried away it can also be very expensive!!  Here are 5 ways you can save money on the party decorations alone!

1. Instead of purchasing the expensive tablecloth to match your party theme, how about:

• Use a flat bedsheet (that can then be washed and reused)
• An inexpensive solid tablecloth (check Target/Wal-mart)
• Cover the table using a roll of Kraft, butcher paper or 12 x 200′ Paper Roll – Refill and put out a box of crayons. The guests can doodle while waiting for everyone to arrive, finish eating or while presents are being opened.

2. Placemats that double as party favors

Once you have selected your theme, look online for a coloring page that matches the theme (check Printables4Kids.com for a huge selection of free kids printables). Print out one page for each party guest. Cut around the coloring area and paste onto sheets of construction paper. As the kids arrive have them color their placemat (don’t forget their name). As the kids finish the placemats laminate using a home laminator (if you have one) or use clear contact paper to protect their piece of artwork. Kids then have a fun takeaway item that can be used again.

3. Party accessories

If you are going for a specific theme, check for value priced birthday party theme packages or select one or two main items from the party theme and decide which themed items are essential and where the less expensive, solid colored plates, cups, napkins, balloons or streamers can be substituted. Check the clearance bins at local party stores and discount stores for inexpensive key pieces or solids that could be mixed and matched. Or use some of your own non-disposable items like plastic cups, silverware and plates for even more savings.

4. Decorate with items you already have

Use items from the house such as stuffed animals, dress up items, and other toys as the base for a centerpiece or other decorations. One year my son wanted a car themed cake so I used toy cars and street signs from his collection as cake toppers – it might be one of the cutest cakes I have made yet.  A large stuffed animal would make a perfect centerpiece for a jungle or zoo themed party. One year my sister-in-law used the blow up kiddie pool my nephew got for a present as the centerpiece and the logical place for party guests to put gifts as they came in. Use your imagination!

5. Pinatas

What child doesn’t love pinatas? Pinatas are big, colorful and very eye appealing by nature.  And a pinata offers great value for the money as it can be used as a centerpiece, party game, and party favors all in one event. Click here for large selection of pinatas for your next party!

With a little imagination, you can still create a well decorated kids birthday party that is fun and affordable!!