Tips for an Amazing Dollar Party
Invitations
Print out a fun explanation of the concept and add it to your invitation (a dollar party goes with any party theme.)
It can say something like...
It can say something like...
- “What's a Dollar Party? A new tradition in birthday parties! Instead of bringing a gift, please bring along 1 dollar for each year of the birthday age. The birthday girl will then use the dollars to buy her favorite gifs on a fun shopping spree!”
- "Good news: This is a dollar party! That means, instead of a gift, you can bring one dollar for each year of the birthday boy's age. That's 7 dollars! For more info on dollar parties, see dollarParties.org."
- "Save the earth and save the time--This year Emma's throwing a dollar party! That means, instead of a present, you can bring her a dollar for each year of her age. She'll use it to splurge on a few things she's crazy about!"
Managing the loot
Set up something fun for guests to pop their dollars into. A treasure chest, a basket with some chocolate coins sprinkled at the bottom, a mailbox, a purse, a bank, the tardis--let your imagination be your guide. Don't forget to add a sign to indicate to guests where to put their gift. Watch your child’s eyes grow wide as the basket fills with heavy cards and lovingly crafted coin bags.
Smart shopping
Kids get twice the birthday out of a dollar party when its shopping time. But make a day of it, and do it wisely. Younger kids are likely to blow it all on the first thing they see, so take them “browsing” first. Have them point out all the toys they might want to buy and make a list with prices--even better, take photos as you move along. After all the browsing is done, sit down for a snack and help your child sort through the list (this is where they'll be doing the math). Then head back to the store and watch them proudly pay for their new prized possessions themselves!
Spoilers
Grandparents or close friends who are desperate to give more than the set number of dollars can still stick to the rules by giving separate dollar bundles from each person in a family, or even one from the dog and cat. In essence, they can still give as much as they want without breaking theme.
Convert the currency
Dollar Parties can just as easily be Pound Parties, Euro Parties and Peso Parties, so customize to your region and enjoy the rewards!