Tips for a Cheaper Birthday Party: SouthFlorida.com

Throwing a kids' party doesn't have to break the bank. A party can be fabulous without all the frills. Here are some ideas to help you stay within your means this year.

Stock up on party goods when they are on sale.
I always browse the grocery store ads before I make a shopping trip. The best deals are typically in the form of buy-one, get-one-free offers, in which you can often purchase juice boxes, chips, sodas, cake mixes, etc. You'll save you money in the long run by planning in advance.

Don't go overboard on decorations and party supplies.
Check out your local dollar store. A lot of them carry provisions such as plates, tablecloths, plastic ware, cups, party favors and balloons. Another option is to think green by using reusable plates and cups (more elbow grease, less spending). Instead of buying decorations, use things from around the house and garden, or borrow someone's pre-loved decorations.

Make your own cake.
You can make your own cake or cupcakes for next to nothing. If you have a large crowd, you can purchase massive desserts from a wholesale store such as Costco, Sam's Club or BJ's. They all sell huge cakes for less than $20. Upon request, they will add a personalized message on the spot.

Think "kid food."
Cheese pizzas, PB&J, chicken nuggets, chips and juice are easy, cheap and delicious. Need I say more? To please the adults, add some beer or margaritas and call it done.

Limit the guest list.
It's easy to keep the guest list short when children are young. The "4 and younger" crowd isn't usually expecting an extravagant affair, as they probably will once they hit school age. A good rule of thumb is to invite one child-sized guest at age 1, two at age 2, and so on and so forth. Pick your child's favorite friends (or yours) and keep it small. Smaller groups equal a smaller bill.

Host the party somewhere free.
Parties thrown at the playground or your own home will take a bit more thought and effort than a prepackaged party. But when you think of the amount that bounce houses, kid gyms and theme parks charge for a 90-minute gathering, it is enough to make a grown woman cry. So what do you have to spare -- time or money?

Simplify your goodie bags.
For about $1 per kid, you can create a fantastic party favor by (again) hitting the local dollar stores. Instead of buying actual goodie bags for the treats, you can wrap them in leftover fabric or simply attach a ribbon. Another thrifty idea is to have your decorations or craft activity double as the party favor.

Save on wrapping paper.
Keep some of your children's artwork that you would normally toss. You can later reuse it as wrapping paper or gift cards. If your children don't like the idea of losing their creations, you can take digital photos of each piece first. Then they will be preserved forever.