I do love a good party décor DIY session. But after the recent “birthday bash” this past weekend, I had to admit it was getting a little wearing to try to keep up with Pinterest-perfect party standards.
I mean, I love party prep – the maker in me adores coming up with themed this-and-thats for a penguin, dinosaur, knights in shining armor party… or whatever theme my boys have requested year by year. But sometimes, the constant creation leaves me feeling drained. Surely that’s not what partying with your kids is supposed to feel like?
So after our recent party, I confessed to the boys we’d have to scale back the party prep in the future. I want to make the parties festive, while keeping party prep aligned with our family goals to live simply.
I thought about what aspects of party décor were the easiest to achieve and also had great “party power” (my own term!).
Here’s my top five easiest party decoration ideas ever!
Balloon Swag – A one-dollar bag of balloons and length of ribbon lets you quickly create a swag, row or bunch of balloons to hang from a wall, across a doorway, or on the birthday child’s chair.
Party Banners – Rectangles strung on ribbon – it’s that simple. You don’t have to get fancy and create pennants or fancy chevron shapes if you don’t have time. Use stencils (or your own nice handwriting if you have it!) to write a simple “Happy Birthday,” “Congrats!” or your child’s name. Size the banner up or down for your space. Because this party décor can be personalized, it’s an extra special touch that comes together within minutes.
Decorated cups – Easy: Googly eyes and cut out hearts and triangles can make all sorts of paper cup creatures for guests to enjoy.
Easier: Googly eyes and markers to draw on faces – maybe have guests create their own when they arrive!
Easiest: Large stickers that match your party theme – instant party paper goods!
Paper Straws – Nothing says “party!” like swirly paper straws. This is such a do-nothing trick with great party power! Paper straws can be found in the dollar sections of most stores these days. I like to pick up small packs in random colors to save for parties or special meals. Display a handful in a large cup and presto! Party décor that is Insta-worthy!
Simple Photo Booths – Simply tape a patterned fabric sheet, or bright solid piece of gift-wrapping paper to a wall. Add costumes or chalkboard signs guests can write custom messaging onto. This would be a great spot for that balloon swag! But really it could be as simple as a fun background to take photos without being photo-bombed. Maybe! A photo booth is also a great ice-breaker that reminds everyone to grab a friend and snap a shot, commemorating the party! I love when party activities also double as party décor!
Each of these easy party decoration ideas should take less than fifteen minutes to create and set up. Meaning you can spend your time and energy actually celebrating the guest of honor!
Julie Kieras is a former English teacher turned stay-at-home-mom. She is quietly amassing the world's greatest little home library and loudly enjoying life as a mom of two rambunctious boys. All while sharing ideas and tips for natural living and play on her family blog HappyStrongHome.com!
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