Party Ideas & Inspiration

20 non-candy party favor ideas under $3 each: bubbles, stickers, crayons, tattoos and seed packets. Budget $2-5 per child and what to avoid.

For 50 guests buy 120-150 plates, 150-200 napkins, 100-150 cups and 75 cutlery sets. Full shopping list and budget breakdown.

A 32-item party planning checklist: 4 weeks out for venue and invites, 2 weeks for supplies, 1 week for food, and party day for setup.

A garland needs no frame and costs less; an arch needs a stand and about 40% more balloons. Comparison table with counts and setup times.

Air balloons last 2-4 weeks and cost nothing; helium costs $1-2 per balloon and floats 8-12 hours. When to use each and how to extend float time.

Bamboo plates cost $0.40-0.80 each and handle heavy food; paper plates cost $0.15-0.35 and compost in 2-6 weeks. Comparison table and buying advice.