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10 Frugal Yet Creative Party Ideas Using Balloons

If you’re entertaining on a budget, one of the best ways to throw an unforgettable party is to invest in a big package of multicolored balloons. From invitations to party favors, balloons can be used in endless ways to celebrate almost any occasion.

1. Party Invitations

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Balloons are often thought of as frugal party decor, but they can also be used to make unique invitations with an interactive element. Visit A Girl and A Glue Gun for the tutorial, as well as the free project printables you need to make assembling your invitations a snap.

2. Confetti Balloons

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Jazz up ordinary balloons by filling them with colorful confetti. If you don’t mind a little cleanup, you can let your guests pop them to scatter the confetti halfway throughout the party. Learn more at Kojo Designs.

3. Balloon Banner

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Make a colorful, personalized party banner using balloons, stick on letters, fringe garland, confetti, and twine. Real Simple has the complete project tutorial.

4. Balloon Arch

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Balloon arches add a dramatic touch to your party. This version costs just $10 to make, using supplies from your local hardware store.  Assembly instructions can be found at Less Than Perfect Life of Bliss.

5. Balloon and Streamers Backdrop

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This colorful backdrop, courtesy of Decorating By Day, is perfect for highlighting the buffet table or for creating a cute spot for a DIY photo booth. The color scheme can easily be adapted to fit any party theme, using balloons and streamers found at your local dollar store.

6. Balloon Messages

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Add interest to an ordinary balloon bouquet by writing messages on your balloons relating to the theme of your party. This example is for a bridal shower, but the idea could be adapted to fit any occasion. Head over to Studio DIY to learn more.

7. Balloon Wreath

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This adorable balloon wreath can be reused year after year, making it the perfect decoration for birthday celebrations. The initial in the middle is interchangeable, so it can be used to honor multiple birthday boys or girls. Roberts Love has the full tutorial.

8. Balloon Cooler

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Use water balloons instead of ice to keep your drinks cold. They make a pretty display and you can have a water balloon fight when they melt. Head over to House Beautiful for more clever backyard party ideas.

9. Balloon Dart Painting

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Make balloons part of a fun party activity by filling them with paint and inviting guests to throw darts at them. As the balloons pop, you’ll end up with a colorful work of art to keep as a souvenir. Head over to Hello Wonderful to learn more.

10. Filled Balloon Party Favors

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Sending guests home with a party favor is the perfect way to end any event. Candy sticks, bubble gum balls, glow sticks, and small containers of bubbles can be slipped inside balloons for unique party favors guests of all ages are sure to love. Dukes & Duchesses explains how to put together this clever DIY project.

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