I love to have get-togethers, “shindigz” as we call them here, and parties. However, I don’t like the price that goes with them sometimes when I’m trying to live on a budget. If you read our article on 15 Things You Should Be Buying From The Dollar Store, you will know how much I love this place. My local Dollar Tree is my go-to store when I’m having several people over, and I’m going to let you in on my shopping tips.
- Set the table for less. Items like paper plates, tablecloths, and napkins are much less than at other big box stores. Even though the number of plates or napkins might be smaller than other stores, I don’t mind that because you’re not usually having fifty people or more at an event. I also like the color coordinated plastic silverware and the fact that I can get all of it for about $3.00-$5.00 total. Specialty stores are so much more expensive, so this is an area where you can really save.
- Decorations. Our local Dollar Tree has streamers, balloons, and even the three-dimensional stand up centerpieces for certain events like birthdays and baby showers. Also, you can purchase helium balloons for less than our local florist or grocer.
- Catering supplies. Our local store has large bowls, tongs, and even Sterno. The larger bowls can be used for chips, pretzels, fruit salad, etc. These are especially nice for when you are having a picnic outdoors. You can also snag some cute plastic cups that even come like champagne flutes. These would be so much more expensive at big box or restaurant supply stores.
- Cards, gift bags, and gift wrap. If your gathering is for a birthday party or some other gift-giving event, you can’t beat the prices for the quality for all of these items. Their cards are very nice (not flimsy), and their gift bags are perfect for any event.
They also have candles, balloon weights, and other odds and ends you would pay much more for at other stores.
5. Goody bag items and favors. There were so many small items that would be adorable for a goody bag at a birthday party. They even have favor boxes for weddings and baby showers as well. There are party noisemakers too, even though I’m not sure I’d want them at a party at my house.
6. Invitations & Thank you cards. Invites can be so expensive, but really, they just get thrown away. Don’t waste money on expensive invites. Use that money for better quality foods like fruit or a higher cut of meat. If you are looking for a way to say thank you after a party where you receive gifts, they even have thank you card packs, which would cost at least $6.00 or more at other stores in our area.
7. Snacks & candy. However, be careful to double check the cost per ounce, because sometimes the smaller packages don’t save you any more than buying higher quality candy somewhere else. Make sure you check your numbers!
What are your Dollar Store party savings tips? Comment them below!
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