Due diligence, even for a 1st bday party

Bday party shopping

I'm a big fan of doing due diligence.  I do this with just about everything in life--potential personal and professional relationships for sure.  I like knowing what I'm getting myself into because I'm a planner (planner of parties, socials, life happenings in general). 

Today's personal due diligence project revolved around AML jr's first birthday party at the end of this month.  I realize AML jr won't remember her party at all, but I will, as will her guests and when she looks back at pictures I want her to see how adorable and fun the day was from start to finish, from decor to food to favors (Gramdma M is the most creative and resourceful when it comes to favors--thank G-d for her!).  So today I took to the streets and the internet to gather intelligence on party decor for AML jr's first birthday.  Her first birthday party theme is puppies because she loves puppies, namely her puppy Maddy whom she fondly calls "dee."  So, naturally, I was on the hunt for cute, creative and reasonably priced items to make her birthday special.  It took some time, but my efforts paid off in savings for sure. 

First I checked out the Dollar Store and found some adorable stuffed puppies (like the old Beanie Babies), perfect for an Easter-like egg hunt, but instead this will be a Puppy hunt.  They had lots of great stuff, but not much in the puppy department.  So, I moved onto Target.  Again, great prices and adorable Halloween costumes and yummy candy, but not much in the puppy variety.  I headed to Party City next, where I knew I'd find good stuff for the theme, but was worried about the prices.  I got cups, plates, napkins, table cloths, games and more.  But my research didn't stop there.  I immediately went home and looked on Amazon and Oriental Trading Co to see their offerings and prices.  And guess what?  I found the best prices and items at Party City.

I could drive myself crazy and go to more stores or spend additional hours on the computer looking for cheaper stuff or additional options, but time is money afterall!  Oh, and this is a one year old's birthday, not her wedding. I really feel like a got great quality at great prices.

So, if you're planning an event, any event, check out your options because you might be surprised which stores are the most reasonable and offer you the variety you are seeking.  And if you're hiring a planner, don't be afraid to ask him/her to do the due diligence and save you money and time!