Budget Halloween Party Tips

• Use Online Invitations

Instead of splurging on printed invitations, invite guests using customizable online invitations, such as Celebrations' plan your party tools. It may not be as formal as mailed invitations, but will save you both time and money. You can easily manager your RSVP list and communicate with guests.

• Use What You Have

The easiest way to avoid blowing your budget on themed party ware is to use what you have. Guests won't notice if hors d'oeuvres are served on a Halloween platter or a plain, white serving dish. Using silverware and other non-disposable serving ware will help you avoid the expense of purchasing disposable items. Plain serving dishes can be dressed up with festive touches such as a sprinkling of candy corn or crushed cookie "dirt".

• Make a List and a Budget

Decide ahead of time what you will need to throw your party. You might find that you can recycle decorations you've used before or borrow big ticket items such as a smoke machine. Sticking to a list and budget will prevent impulse buys and over-spending.

• Buy Over Time and In Bulk. 

Unless you're throwing a last minute party, you can shop for your party supplies, food ingredients and decorations over time. If something you know you might need is on sale and won't perish, pick it up! Invest time in shopping different stores, which will have different items on sale at different times.