Birthdays on a Budget

All parents want their child’s birthday to be special, but the costs of throwing a party can really add up, especially if you have multiple children. Is it really possible to cut party costs without losing the fun and excitement that parents and kids alike have come to love? One way to cut down on costs is by purchasing birthday supplies that can be reused or repurposed year after year.

The easiest way to start saving on party decor is to stock up on items when they are on sale or clearance. Choose items that are not theme specific and select a variety of colors that are gender neutral. Basic birthday signs, party lanterns and photo backdrops can be reused again and again. You even can make your own decor out of stronger materials like cardstock or cardboard or hit up the dollar store for streamers and signs that can be used repeatedly. As you collect a stash of items, store it someplace organized and easily accessible for when the next birthday arrives.

When purchasing items for the special day, you may find it wise to spend a little extra money on birthday items you know can be used many times over several years. Purchase games that can be used every year, like bingo, bean bag toss or yard games such as badminton. These games are fun for any party, and you’ll see a return on your investment quickly. Chalkboards for birthday signs, cake stands and punch bowls also can be purchased once and used for many parties.

Another fun way to get mileage from your money is buying dress-up items that can be used for a photo booth year after year, such as hats, silly glasses, feather boas or masks. Kids of any age will have a great time posing in different costumes. Many of these items can be purchased at a dollar store, garage sales or may be lying around your house. Choose a basic birthday backdrop for your photo booth or use a plain sheet or tablecloth to keep things simple and affordable for your photo backdrop. A number of fun apps allow you to put in different backdrops if you use a green background. Photos taken in the photo booth can double as thank you cards for your guests.

Saving money on tableware is possible in a few different ways. Cloth tablecloths and plastic plates can be washed and used again. They will last for years after a one-time investment. If the thought of extra cleanup doesn’t appeal to you, try buying a giant roll of white butcher paper and unrolling it on the table as a tablecloth. Allow kids to color right on the tablecloth during the party. When the festivities are over, simply roll up the paper and toss it. One roll of paper will last for years, and because of the neutral color, it can be used for many holidays and birthdays.

Another way to save on birthday expenses is to replace balloons with party lanterns. You can purchase these for about the same price as balloons, but instead of getting a one-time use, you can utilize them over and over again. By choosing a variety of neutral colors, you will save money and enjoy a very festive look.

Once the party's over, theme-specific party decorations can be repurposed in many ways. Cards and invitations can be made into wall art, ornaments, gift tags or garland. Crepe paper and napkins can be made into confetti or garland. Old ribbons and balloons can be used to make a festive wreath. Possibilities are limited only by your imagination.

            Olathe mom of six Sarah Lyons loves saving money on birthdays!