10 tips for decorating your next party

If throwing parties is your thing, then you probably love thinking up ways to make sure your guests have the best time. A great place to start? Amazing decor! There are so many possibilities when it comes to effortless and budget-friendly decorations. Here are 10 tricks to transform any place into an amazing party space and set the mood.

1. Rethink your walls. Temporarily swap out the photos and art in your frames with pictures of the guest of honor or images related to your party's theme. You can also replace them with swags and garlands, which make great backdrops for the food table.

2. Brighten the table. Cover the dining and/or serving table with a tablecloth or a couple of yards of fabric for an instantly put-together look. (Pro tip: Ask the fabric store to cut the material with pinking shears for a no-sew edge.) We like neutrals like cream, but don’t be afraid to take your cue from your party theme: Choose a playing-card motif for a casino party or red for the holidays.

3. Bring the outdoors in. Plants and flowers are great for tropical events, but they also add life to any party. Bring outdoor potted plants inside, cut some blooms or even branches from your yard or pick up new plants or flowers at the farmers’ market. A minimal floral arrangement goes a long way if you put a few flowers in small vases throughout the house.

4. Dress up your windows. String fairy lights around your window frames or a pennant banner over a window to add to the festive spirit.

5. Organize with trays. Group food, drinks and favors on colorful or elegant trays, depending on the type of event. After the party, they’re the perfect organizer for everyday items like TV remotes, sunglasses and keys.

6. Bring out your best tableware. Now's the time to show off all those beautiful dishes, serving bowls and glassware stored away for special occasions. Fancy tableware (think seasonal platters, martini glasses and cool ceramic dishes) instantly elevates the table.

7. Set the mood with lighting. Swap out white light bulbs for colored ones to create a cool effect, especially for holidays with strong color associations like Halloween or St. Patrick’s Day. Once the sun goes down, place light dimmers on low and light candles throughout the house.

8. Refresh the bathroom. Clear your counters of everything except a fresh bar of soap and at least one fresh hand towel. Want to go above and beyond? Float tea light candles in the bathtub—trust us, they're a game-changer.

9. Switch up your seating. If seating is limited and your budget allows, rent classier wooden chairs instead of plastic folding chairs. Decorate seating with tulle, balloons and/or ribbon for an easy upgrade.

10. Don’t neglect the entryway. Greet guests with a sign or balloons at the front door to hint that they’re at the right address. Leave coat racks and hooks free so they have room to hang their belongings, or place a chair or bench by the entrance where guests can put their belongings.

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