How to Throw an Affordable Holiday Party

Decorate Gingerbread Men

Decorating gingerbread men is a superfun activity that is surprisingly cheap. Ikea sells a pound of gingerbread dough for just $3. Grab a couple tubes of red and green icing for about $2 each, and you're all set!

Photo by Rustic White Photography via Style Me Pretty

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Put on a Spotify Playlist

A party isn't a party without music. Luckily, we have all kinds of totally free and festive playlists, like this one filled with Christmas pop songs.

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Use Leftover Wrapping Paper as a Photo Booth Backdrop

Chances are you have rolls of wrapping paper hanging around after wrapping all sorts of presents. Use the leftover paper and tape it to your wall to make a fun patterned backdrop for taking pictures. If you have to use different kinds of paper, it's OK — it will create a cozy-patchwork-quilt look.

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Use Candy Canes as Treats and Decor

Put candy canes all over your space for guests to snack on. You can also hang them from a tree, banister, or mantel for decoration. Get this pack of 60 candy canes for $20. You will be covered on both decor and sweet treats.

Source: Style Me Pretty

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Buy a Few Bottles of Two Buck Chuck

A Christmas party requirement is some spirits to sip on. Alcohol can be superexpensive, but we praise Trader Joe's for its Two Buck Chuck. The store has a variety of Charles Shaw wines in the $2 range, so you can buy plenty of bottles depending on the number of guests you're having.

Photo by Meg Runion via Style Me Pretty

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Rent a Classic Christmas Movie From Redbox

Image Source: Paramount Pictures

When the party starts to die down, pop in a classic holiday movie rental like White Christmas from Redbox for only one buck! Everyone will enjoy a nostalgic flick before they head home.

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