Making Gift BasketsI enjoy making gifts using baskets from thrift shops and filling it with tons of the samples I order from the internet. If the items are basically shampoo, conditioners, etc. I will line the basket with a couple of hand towels and wash cloths.
Inexpensive Baby Gift Ideas?I need a new baby gift for a baby boy. I'm low on money.
Thanks.
ISO Decorating Ideas for a H.S. Band Banquet?Need do-it-yourself ideas for centerpieces and gift bags for seniors!
The Gift of AttentionThe gift of attention to the elderly is the best and easiest
gift that anyone can make. I think that taking the time to
visit an elderly relative is a great way to brighten up
their day. Cookies and a smile are always welcome.
New Relationship Birthday Present Ideas?I have just recently started dating after getting divorced. I have been seeing this person on and off for about two months. My problem is that his birthday is coming up next week and I have no idea what to get him or do for him on his birthday.
Looking for Tiered Circle Boxes?I am looking for a company that would sell boxes at a thrifty price. I am planning on making 3 tier snowmen as gifts for co-workers and friends. Does anyone know of a company that sells tiered circle boxes for a cheap rate?
Adoption Gift Ideas?I need a gift idea for family who has just finalized an adoption. The kids are too old for new baby gifts any ideas? Thanks
Family Present?I'm supposed to send some friends a "family" present. A gift for the whole family for under $20. Any ideas? There are 5 in the family, mom, dad, and 3 kids 5-9.
Church Dinner Centerpieces?Our church is having their annual parish dinner. I need to create 33 centerpieces with an international theme. I would like to spend between $3-5/each centerpiece. Any suggestions? Help!
Valentine's Day Centerpiece?I need ideas for a Valentine table centerpiece. Any help would be appreciated.
More Rainbow Tea?Those were some excellent suggestions for decorations, now, I would like someone to suggest some games and activities that could be done at a church rainbow tea.
Looking for an Inexpensive Royal Blue Prom Dresses?I got invited to the prom last minute and looking for a royal blue dress under 100$. I only have until the 14 of May. If you can help e-mail me at bluetigger112@aol.com. Thank you.
Simone
Frugal Gifts for KidsWhenever I run across a good kid's CD (sometimes I merely borrow them) I burn as many copies as I need and keep them for nieces, nephews and friends.
Hawaiian Birthday Party?Help! My five-year old has decided that she wants her sixth (going on 30) birthday party to have a hawaiian theme. She told me she wants to wear coconuts and a grass skirt. I need to find ways to inexpensively decorate and still have the house, back yard and covered patio look like a tropical paradise. Does anyone know of recipes and games with a tropical flair. I'll have about 75 adults and kids there. I have a large, close extended family.
Sandy
Inexpensive Gift with Rave Reviews!Have a gift idea that always gets rave reviews. I wrap a small photo album purchased at Michael's for $1, a disposable camera at Walmart for $3.50 and a $5 Walmart gift card for developing. This gift is appropriate for kids as young as 5 years old.
50th Anniversary Party Question?I have a question! I am planning a 50th for my folks, and they don't want a 'big blow-out' either. We got a deal (free..good deal, huh?) on a beautiful banquet room overlooking the falls. We're putting together some Memory scrapbooks and will have some of their fav 50's music playing in the room (background music)... Love the gold and white balloon idea! We are ending the evening by having a vow renewal ceremony (hope they are ok with that LOL)
But, here's my question ... we are trying to decide if it should just be immediate family, (kids, spouses, grandkids) or if we should invite a select few to join us.. what is the protocol when paying for dinner. If we invite them, are we obligated to pay for their meal/drinks? And if not, how do you tactfully let them know? Yikes.
Party with Wild West Theme?I am planning a birtday party for my 9 year old son with a wild west theme. Anyone have any party favor, decoration and game ideas that would fit that theme?
Thanks, Jan
Anniversary Punch with Frozen Pansies?We are having our 20th Anniversary in 2 weeks and I would like to fix a punch with frozen pansies. Any suggestions? Thanks,
Patricia
Throwing a Baby Shower?I need any ideas that anyone has about throwing a baby shower, anything you can think of. I've never given one. Much help is needed, but I'd really like to do it.
Thanks,
Ksievers
Gift Box Tag? Please, does anyone know the words to the tag attached to decorate a pretty little box that is empty? It went something like this...
It's My PartyParties range from quick get-togethers to very elegant, formal
affairs. If you are the host/hostess, the bulk of the
responsibility lies on your shoulders. So make an impression
that will knock the socks off of all your guests. You are not a
professional caterer - you don't have to be. A few simple tricks
or tips and you are an entertainment specialist.
Looking for ideas for a party with a 'Grease' theme.I am having a "Grease" (the movie) themed birthday party for my daughter who is turning 6. I am making poodle skirts out of felt and am going to let the girls decorate them.
Great Gift Idea: Gel Potpourri JarsHeat half the liquid potpourri in saucepan or microwave. Stir in the gelatin until dissolved... Fantastic gift ideas or for personal use.
Fruit of the Spirit Centerpieces?I need some ideas for centerpieces for our MOPS group . Our theme is fruit of the spirit. I need something inexpensive, and creative. We sell the centerpieces at the end of the year at our silent auction. Please help!
Cluttered Room and Sleepover Birthday Party?I'm having a sleepover birthday party. My room is so out of date! But it's so cluttered that I can't do anything with it! Please help me!!
Cowboy Western Boat Racing Banquet?We are having a year end banquet for our boat racing association and our theme this year is cowboy or country western. Is ther eany fun and inexpensive ways to decorate using both the speed boat theme and the western theme?
- Candice
Help with SuperBowl Party Decorations and Centerpieces?I am planning the decorations for our organization's event in January. The event is for approximately 650 people and it has a SuperBowl theme (since we are in Jacksonville). I am having a hard time coming up with the centerpieces for the tables. We are going to involve local high schools to help with the decorations so any suggestions that you can make on decorations and centerpieces that they can put together would be appreciated.
Lillian
The Cotton Ball GameDo you need a fun game to play at a Shower or Party? Well I know one that is absolutely hilarious... The Cotton Ball Game.
Looking for Shower Wrap Information?A friend told me about shower wraps she used to help sew for another lady to sell. She said you use a towel that has a wide hem, 4" of velcro to close at top, elastic for around the top and a ribbon trim. Has anybody else made these? I would like to make a couple for my daughter's-in-law for Christmas. My friend had forgotten the measurements used for the small, medium and large sizes. I would just like to hear if anybody else is making these. Also, wouldn't it be neat to make a matching one for the guys?
Katherine
Early Bird Christmas Gift Ideas for KidsWith school supplies on clearance now it is a good time to stock up on crayons markers and colored pencils to make art kits for the children on your list.
Fisherman KitTake advantage of clearance sales right now by buying your fishing supplies now. Tackle boxes, fishing lures and fishing gear are all on sale so they can make room for the winter sports stuff.
Baby's First Halloween CardWhen my granddaughter was an infant, she was too young for trick or treating on her first Halloween so I bought a "Baby's 1st Halloween" greeting card. We dressed my granddaughter in a costume and at every house we stopped at, we said we didn't want candy but we would like them to sign the card.
Precious Placemat Gift IdeaThis is especially nice for Grandparents. Have your children draw a picture of grandpa and grandma and then sign their names to this work of art. Cover with clear contact paper. If you have a baby you could coat one of their little hands and one little foot with paint and then press on the paper and then sign it for them.
Don't Throw Away Those Board GamesMany companies will send you replacement parts for free or for a nominal fee (shipping and handling). Many of the major game companies have web sites where you can request parts and instructions for games.
Dollar Store Beauty Gift for a Young GirlAt the dollar store you should be able to find a tube of different colors of lip gloss. Near the lipstick you should also be able to find some body glitter that is so popular with kids of the younger set. Jewelry is cheap there, too. Clip on earrings and a couple of bead necklaces are great.
Ideas for a Lizzie McGuire Party Theme?I would like to know if anyone has any ideas for party favors/goody bags for a Lizzie McGuire birthday party for an 8 year old girl. This is the theme that she has her heart set on. The store-bought stuff is really expensive. Any frugal ideas for a mom on a budget?
Cindy from Medicine Hat, AB
Help Making a Large Race Car Cake?I am having a hot wheels party for my son and my mother in law is going to make the cake but I want to give her a little help. I have told her that I want a figure 8 black race car track on the cake and I will put some cars on the track but I have no clue how she is going to make this. Has anyone ever done it before? Can anybody give me some tips to give her? She has never made a race car cake like this before and I am needing it for 40-45 people. Any ideas would be appreciated!
Erricka
Tea Party in a BoxYou can make an adult version of this or one with a play tea set for your favorite little girl.
"A night at the Ranch" Parade Float Ideas ASAP!My daughters homecoming parade theme is "A night at the Ranch" Does anyone know of patterns to cut out a cardboard fence or cardboard horse, wagon wheel, etc? Any other ideas? The person doing this got sick and we have 2 days to pull it off.
Ideas for Truly Madly Deeply Prom?My daughters are in charge of their Prom and need ideas for creating a water fountain look and ideas for a picture corner. The theme is "Truly Madly Deeply" Any ideas are appreciated.
-lazetta
Candy and Cookie Gift PackagingMaxwell House Coffee cans, 13 oz. size, have an inner metal ring just under the lid that strengthens the can and avoids sharp edges. Also, the thin plastic covering peels away easily leaving a shiny container that needs no other decoration. I use these to pack my best candies and cookies for gifts. I use a circle of waxed paper between layers and top the container with a bow.
By Elizabeth
Cookie Cutters as Napkin RingsInexpensive cookie cutters make cute seasonal napkin rings.
By Linda
Tea Party Ideas for 6 Year Old?I need ideas for a Tea party of a 5 year old turning 6. I came across a post over the weekend that I thought was at this website, where someone posted an idea for a Tea Party. The craft was decorating hats, using peanut butter sandwiches. I can't find the post. Could someone help me find it or share some ideas.
-video312
Sweeten The Air With Herbs And SpicesPlace spare sprigs of fresh herbs directly on the oven rack toward the end of the baking or roasting time. The aroma will stimulate your family's taste buds and welcome arriving guests to the anticipated feast.
By joesgirl
Sharing Thankful ThoughtsAs your Thankgiving guests arrive give each a paper fall leaf to write a "thankful" thought on. Have them drop them in a clear vase or fishbowl. They needn't sign it unless they want to. Then, if there are only a few, read them before the meal, or after, or hang them up for all to see.
Use the Crockpot for StuffingPrepare your favorite stuffing and bake it in your crockpot while the turkey occupies the oven. You can prep this the day before and refrigerate, it is so much easier than stuffing it into the turkey.
Always Ask for Gift Boxes and CardsWhen I buy an item at a store, I always ask for a free gift box and card. Even if the item I purchase is something for me. I store them until I need a gift box for articles that I had made or purchased at a backyard sale.
By Jean Sterling
Send People Happy ThoughtsI collect the happy thoughts I read in magazines or hear on TV into a notebook. Once a month, I write them down on colorful paper and mail them to my nieces and nephews. It keeps us close even from miles away!
By Kathy
Ask for Christmas Gift BoxesIf you will need boxes for Christmas gifts, start asking for them now whenever you shop in clothing stores. Close to Christmas they sometimes run out.
By Linda
Gift Wrap IdeasBecause of our consumer society, wrapping paper can be a huge expense. We may want to consider "downgrading" the packaging and wrapping of the things we purchase in the coming year.
I recently heard of a great idea: instead of wasting what amounts to tons (collectively) of wrap and ribbon, why not use seasonal dish clothes or towels to wrap some items? You could use place mats that have been rolled up and tied as a beautiful gift alone or with some kind of neat kitchen gizmo tucked inside. Use YOUR imagination!
Editor's Note: What gift wrapping ideas have you used? Do you have any ideas to share with our readers?
Army Homecoming Ball?I am in need of ideas or suggestions for an Army Homecoming Ball. My husbands Army Reserve unit will be returning from a year long deployment. We will be having a homecoming ball in late February. There really is no theme, except maybe patriotic. We have a shoestring budget and would appreciate all ideas or suggestions. Thank you. - Crys
Online Advent CalendarsThere are a lot of sites on the internet that have online advent calendars and a few sites with printables to make your own. Here are some links to some of the best sites.
Keeping Mashed Potatoes HotOnce you've mashed them, keep them on low, covered in a crockpot. Butter melts well on them. Delicious!
Get the Whole Family InvolvedThanksgiving is hard to enjoy when you are doing all of the work. Even the littlest members of the family can help so don't take all the work on yourself. Make sure you get the family involved in the preparations, table setting, chopping of vegetables, cleaning and all of the things that you need done for a great celebration. It will make it more enjoyable for everyone if you are not stressed out when it comes time to eat.
Susan from ThriftyFun
Need Help with Gift Ideas?ok I'm a kid. I have a problem. I'm 14 and I can't drive so I have to get my mom to take me places to buy her stuff? hello! problem! My dad is in Iraq so basically I am screwed i get $40 a week if I do my chores for everytime. If I miss a chore my mom takes off 5 bucks! I need that money to buy stuff for her and for her stocking and Domi (foreign exchange student, 17, can't drive) and Max and the dogs and Grandma
what i got my mom so far is:
~a beauty basket
~a snowglobe
~cookbooks
~rich chocolate for her stocking
but thats it! I need help please how can i get cash for gifts?
chelsi
Thrifty Christmas GiftA thrifty Christmas gift I have given in years past is to buy bread dough shaped into dough balls. I arrange them on a baking sheet in the shape of a tree or a wreath and bake according to package directions. Then I drizzle powdered sugar frosting over the rolls and decorate with red and green cherries and small bows. These are well liked by everyone!
By Robin
Keeping Champagne in the GlassIf champagne starts to fizz over while you are pouring it, discreetly, dip one of your fingers into the glass.
By Jazzlyn
Tradition for GranddaughterA lady I know started a tradition for her little granddaughter. Whenever it was gift giving times, (ex. birthday, Christmas, etc.) she'd purchase an item from an expensive bear collection and had several already, when I was shown this. She said by the time the granddaughter got to be college age.
Unusual Condiment Serving ContainersScoop out green or red peppers to make containers for mayonnaise, salad dressings, sauces and dips.
By Jazzlyn
Gift Baskets Ideas for My Dad?I like to make gifts for my parents and this year I want to make gift baskets but I dont have one for my dad. I just don't know what to put in it. Any ideas? Please help.
Casey
Thinking Ahead - Save Money Next ChristmasMake your Christmas list in January. Then shop all year round when you see something you think the person you are shopping for might like.
YOUR Birthday is for Mom too!My friend sends her mother a bouquet on her own birthday. After all, it was a big day for mom too!
By CGH
Reduce Waste This ChristmasChristmas is responsible for more waste and consumption than any other holiday. North American's trash increases by 25% over Christmas - which equates to 25 million extra tons of garbage going to the landfill. By recognizing the incredible waste that is generated the urgency to do something becomes apparent. A truly useful or environment friendly gift is a better ecological choice. Here is a brief list of ideas to inspire you.
Cake You Can Cook In A Jar?I saw somewhere, perhaps on your site, a receipe for cake or maybe bread, that you actually bake in a jar. I would appreciate any information anyone could give. I thought these would be neat Christmas girft that were economical as well as fun.
Linda from Iowa
Looking for Small, Elegant Treat Ideas?I have a cute idea on how to package gifts for my friends but I can't seem to find any elegant yet small treats or candies to make to put in it. Any ideas would be helpful, thanks!
Sofia from Maryland
5 Tips for an Easier Holiday SeasonUse gift bags instead of wrapping gifts.So much easier and you can still use cute little package tie ons for the bag handles such as candy canes, ornaments or anything you can think of.
Gift Idea Using White Plastic Tall (3") Pill BottlesThis idea can be used for Christmas, birthday, Easter, Valentine or whatever! Use your imagination.
Taking the Little Ones ShoppingWhen my niece was old enough to save money, which was about 4 or 5 years old, I took her and her cousin Christmas shopping the day school dismissed. By the time she was in first grade the number of "guests" had grown to 4. They may have had a total of $2-$3, I would give each of them $5 each
January Birthday Party?I have a birthday party to plan for January 3rd. It is an office party for our woman administrator. She love Americana and Country stuff. I need ideas for decorating without having to go out and buy Americana items at top dollar. Help. Mary Ellen
Decorate Wal-Mart LayawaysIf you pick up Walmart layaways and they are wrapped in the brown craft paper just use holiday stencils to decorate. Of course, you'll want to peek to figure out just who's gift it is.
By Melanie
After School Birthday Party Game - Follow Clues for SnacksAt the start of an after school birthday party, I have clues placed around the house or yard having one clue lead to another (about 8 in all) until the last clue led the kids to finding their after school snack. Great fun and with something you would give them anyway!
By June S.
Musical Squares GameIf you want to play "musical chairs" at a kid's birthday party but don't have enough chairs or enough room, use cardboard squares for the children to stand on and play "musical squares."
Flame Retardent Plastic Table Covers?I am putting together a stage like area, and am working with plastic table covers. The event that this is for is questioning if they are flame retardent. I don't know. How can you check?
Michelle
How to Find the Store When Returning Presents?I am sure other readers have incountered this problem. What do you do with all the Christmas presents that you do not want or need.. Also how do you find the store where they bought the item. My father gave me a full set of National Geographic for the computer.
Take Advantage of Birthday PerksCheck and see which restaurants offer the birthday person a FREE desert or a discount coupon on a meal. They usually will sing Happy Birthday too!
Planning A February 14th Birthday Party For A Two Year Old Boy?My two year old's birthday is Feb 14 and I am stumped. He is a typical boy and I have my hands full so whatever I do has to be quick and easy, but cool and flashy. Thanks,
Donna from New York
In Need of an Inexpensive Prom Dress?"I want to go to prom but I can't afford a dress!" Helpful hints from the ThriftyFun community. If you have advice on frugal ways to get a prom dress, please post them below.
Cure For The "Gimme" Mentality At ChristmasSomething to keep in mind for next Christmas: if you are dismayed at the "gimme" mentality displayed by so many kids at Christmastime, instead of asking them "what are you getting for Christmas this year?" ask them instead, "what are you GIVING for Christmas this year?". Ask what they are giving Mom, little brother, etc. This helps take the emphasis off receiving and puts it back on thinking of others.
By Becki in Indiana
Post Prom Party Decorations - Olympics Theme?We are going to have a post prom party in our gym. Our theme will be the Olympics. Can you give me some ideas for decorating. Thank you. Candy from Ne
Looking For a Special Gift For A Guy?I'm within a budget and looking for the perfect gift for a 21 year old guy! It has to be something special because he is a really good freind!
Thanks!
Sweets
Cheap Prom Dress?I was wondering if anyone knew of a place that sells cheap prom gowns. I'm disabled and my 16 year old daughter would love to go to her prom but finding a dress on my budget is hard.
Planning a dance for my daughter's 13th birthday?My daughter will turn 13 in July and I am wanting to have her a dance for her birthday. I am looking for any ideas on how to decorate the hall. I am also looking for games they can play during the day so any ideas would be helpful.
Michelle from Texas
Ideas For a Pig Themed Float?I work at a Nursing Home in canada... We are making a float for our town's parade. The theme is PIGS does anyone have any ideas for what to put on it, or what to use to make things? PLEASE HELP!
Have a Late ChristmasMy friends and I had our Christmas on Jan. 14 so we could go to all the after Christmas sales. We are all in college and money is tight.
By Katie
Ideas for Reunion in Arlington, Texas?We have a reunion every year, and in a different city. This year I am planning the reunion here in Arlington, Texas but don't know where to have it. Where are some great spots to have it? Do you have any ideas for a theme? For an example "building the gap", "staying connected", etc. Any ideas? Dorothy Norwood
Nice Simple Gift For Any OccasionEach holiday (Christmas, birthdays, just because, get well), for gals on my list, I buy reasonable priced candles and fingertip towels (all on sale) and save them for gifts. I wrap the candle in the towel, attach a tag/card and give. They're always thrilled!
By Cathy
Decorating a Truck For a T-ball parade?My son is starting his first t-ball season. To kick off the season, they will be holding a parade. We have to decorate a truck for the kids to ride in. I am looking for some decorating ideas for the truck. They are the White Soxs and the team colors are Black and White. I am known for my elaborate birthday party decorations but, am drawing a blank on how to creatively decorate the truck to win!
Teacup Teapot Sets For Sugar and CreamRemember when those teacup/teapot sets were very popular as gifts for anyone you didn't know well? Well as a teacher I got a few of them. They did not work very well because the pot got so hot you couldn't handle it.
The Best GiftsMalls are everywhere - in every town, city, village and nook. They house thousands of storefronts and assorted units. The products they stock are numerous and the array is mind-boggling. There are items for the home, clothing, jewelry, plants, furniture, and gift assortments to pick and choose from.
Cheap Art Deco Party Decoration Ideas?I am planning a 1930's Nightclub theme party in the nursing home where I am doing my student placement. I am looking for ideas for decorations in the Art Deco style REALLY CHEAP as the facility that I am in cannot give me any funds for decorations. I am hoping to make these myself. Any ideas would be much appreciated. Thanks.
Helen from Toronto
Retirement Party For A Sheriff?I need some ideas for my husbands retirement from the sheriffs dept of 36 years. I am open to any ideas...thanks for any help you might have. I also need some ideas for a retirement gift from me to him.
Jodi
Cheap & Festive DecorationsQuick, easy, and inexpensive--this is great for any party (just change the color scheme!) Go to your party supply store and buy a large spool of "curling ribbon" (the kind you put on balloons). . .
Mailing a Get Well CardAnytime I mail a get well card to someone in the hospital I put THEIR home address in the the "return" section of the envelope. That way if they are discharged before the mail gets to them it will be "returned" to them at their home.
Barbara in NC
Prom Theme For School That Is Closing?Our high school is deactivating and we want to decorate our post prom with a nostalgic theme. Do you have any suggestions?
Siisy
Looking For Wholesale Spam Supplier?I was wondering if anyone knew where I could find wholesale Spam, I am a caterer who specializes in retro-Americana cuisine and I have contacted Hormel numerous times and they have yet to get back to me. Buying Spam by the can is such a ripoff!
Thanks!
Adam
Looking for Wholesale Party SuppliesIt's that time year whenever you hear your kids running around singing ITS MY PARTY AND I'LL CRY IF I WANT TO!
And you have heard so much about having that special birthday that you wished you hadn't asked your baby what they would like,
you're already partaaed out! Buy the time you get everything together your running around with your hands in the air.
I know all you mothers out there so know what I am talking about..
I am needing some good wholesaler info on balloons, party supplies,
etc. Thanks so much
SJE
Do It Yourself PartyEnter teaser before activatingBuy the raw materials, invite a group of people over, and have a creative afternoon of do-it-yourself fun!
By Tif
