🎯 1. Start With a Budget (And Stick to It)

Before you buy a single balloon, take a few minutes to set a realistic budget. Break it down into categories like:

• Decorations

• Food & drinks

• Activities & games

• Party favours

This helps you avoid impulse buys and focus your spending where it matters most.

💡 Budget Tip: Themed party bundles can help you stay on track. For example, you can get full sets of plates, cups, and decorations for themes like Minecraft, Peppa Pig, Sonic, Hot Wheels, and Pokémon—all in one affordable package.

🎨 2. Pick One Clear Theme

One of the easiest ways to make a party feel well put together (even on a budget) is by choosing a strong, consistent theme. Kids usually have a favourite character or game, so building the party around that makes everything simpler.

Top trending themes for 2025 include:

• Minecraft – especially with the new movie release this year

• Peppa Pig – with the buzz around her new baby sister

• Pokémon – always a favourite for games and collectables

• Sonic the Hedgehog – perfect for energetic kids

• Hot Wheels – ideal for car lovers and race fans

When everything matches, from the tableware to the balloons, it looks impressive—even if you didn’t spend much.

🏠 3. DIY Where You Can

Not everything needs to be store-bought. If you’re feeling crafty, try making:

• A “build your own racetrack” station with cardboard for a Hot Wheels theme

• Minecraft-inspired creeper masks using green paper and black squares

• Printable cupcake toppers with your child’s favourite Pokémon

YouTube and Pinterest are great for DIY ideas—even basic printables can elevate your party without costing more than a few pounds in ink and paper.

Still, not everything needs to be handmade. Sometimes it’s easier (and actually cheaper) to get ready-to-go themed sets that save you hours of effort.

🏃‍♂️ 4. Keep Entertainment Simple but Fun

You don’t need to hire a magician or rent a bouncy castle to keep kids entertained. In fact, some of the most fun games are the ones that are easy to set up and free to play.

Here are a few ideas that work for all ages:

• Scavenger hunts: Hide themed items or characters around the house or garden and let the kids search for them. You can create simple clues or just use pictures for younger children.

• Obstacle courses: Use cushions, cones, or chalk outside to set up a mini course. Time each child or encourage them to cheer each other on.

• Musical games: Classics like musical chairs, freeze dance, or pass the parcel are always a hit and require little to no prep.

• Craft corners: Set up a table with crayons, stickers, paper, and glue. Kids love having a hands-on activity, and it gives parents a bit of breathing room too.

• Story time or puppet shows: Especially great for younger kids—these activities let them wind down while still being part of the fun.

Simple activities like these often create the biggest smiles—and don’t cost a thing.

🚚 5. Make Smart Choices With (FF)Supplies

Shopping around can save you a few pounds—but it can also cost you time and delivery fees from multiple sites. When possible, find a one-stop shop that offers:

• Full themed party kits

• Free or low-cost shipping

• High-quality, character-based supplies

👉 That’s why many parents in the UK and across Europe turn to us at FFSupplies. With free shipping to the UK, France, Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands, and hundreds of 5-star reviews, we help make birthday planning easy and affordable.

🎉 Ready to Party?

No matter which theme you choose, the key to a successful birthday bash is in the details—from the tableware and balloons to the activities and favours. With high-quality, themed party supplies and free shipping across the UK and Europe, planning your child’s dream party has never been easier.

Browse our full selection of themed party products and get everything you need to throw a party they’ll remember forever.