Decorating for a party is always fun and doing it on a set budget doesn't have to be a challenge. Choosing a theme helps focus your party planning. Once you decide on a theme, the rest of the details are easy to figure out. A party's cost can climb rapidly, but keep in mind that you don't need to spend a small fortune to turn your party venue into a fairytale. It's important to keep things simple and creative. To decorate for your Christmas Party on a dime, all you'll need is a little imagination, creativity, time, and hard work.

Pick a theme: 

Whether your theme is specific or as simple as a certain color, having a party theme in mind will make the planning process much easier (and keep you from buying things you don't need). Some suggestions for Christmas Party themes can range from a Winter Wonderland to It's A Wonderful Life (or any other old movie references) or Christmas Carols and Winter Activities.

Go Modern Minimalist: 

Instead of spending a small fortune on extravagant floral arrangements, try displaying a few individual stems in bud vases or simple glass cylinders. Consider found art and decorations, and always remember to check the wholesale stores and online for deals.

Be a Decoration Diva:  

Use scrapbook paper, ribbon, gems or rhinestones to decorate plain, inexpensive candles to use as centerpieces. Think about DIY decorations instead of pre-manufactured goods – it can save money and also give your party a unique, homey touch.

Go Green: 

Greenery is a natural and beautiful way to decorate your party venue. It's cheap too. Some people have evergreen trees in their yards from which they cut greenery to decorate surfaces, such as end tables and a dinner table. If you do not have a tree or a yard, buy greenery cheaply from a Christmas tree store. Sometimes stores will even give greenery away. If there are branches on your Christmas tree that you must remove before fitting it into your Christmas tree stand, use those branches to decorate. Holly and mistletoe also add a splash of color and fun to your Christmas party.

If you're planning a Christmas or Holiday Party and are looking for a venue in the South Lake Tahoe area, feel free to contact me to find out how I can help!

Contributed by Stephanie Smith, Private Event Manager, Lake Tahoe Golf Course