Plan a party on the cheap: how to get the most from discount and dollar stores

If you're trying to save money these days (and frankly, who isn't?), consider shopping for your next party at a discount store like the Dollar Tree (a favorite of the 15-Minute Party Planner because the selection is good and everything really is only $1).

Luau-themed party supplies from
the Dollar Tree.

The Dollar Tree carries a regular stock of party merchandise including invitations, disposable table cloths, party favors, paper goods, flatware, and decorations. In addition to standard solid-color items, you can easily find themed decorations for birthday parties, luaus, graduation celebrations, bachelorette parties, weddings, baby showers, and the like.

Furthermore, the Dollar Tree often has close-out party supplies from other brands, which savvy shoppers can pick up at drastically-reduced prices. For instance, we here at the 15-Minute Party Planner have frequently found Hallmark-brand decorations and paper goods at the Dollar Tree for the bargain price of $1 per pack, rather than the Hallmark price of $4.95 or more!

In addition to paper goods, invitations, and decorations, discount stores are a great source for party favors and goodie bags. You can also save money buy baking or purchasing a simple sheet cake, and then decorating it with branded toys (Mickey Mouse, Cookie Monster, etc.) purchased from the Dollar Tree or another discount shop, rather than paying for a premium themed cake at a bakery.

Tell about your favorite party-planning deals in the comments.

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