[email protected]
(479) 782-9494
My Account
the party place

Author: Lauren Smith

  • Graduation Galore!

    Graduation Galore!

    Graduation season is upon us, and I remember it all too well (I graduated from my undergraduate university last year May). It is a time of so many emotions. Obviously we are all so proud of the graduates, but it can also be a time of sadness because that means a big change in life is about to come. Well, unless you are me and decide to go to grad school to prolong the despair of trying to find a good job in this economy. Though, that is coming to an end for me as I graduate in July.

    However, let us not get too depressed about the realities of life. It is celebration time! I know a few things about graduation parties just because of my friends and my own experiences about it. Luckily, Party Place has all the things you need for a cool graduation no matter if it is for high school, college, or graduate school.

    Something I am not a fan of about graduation party supplies is that it is usually only limited to one color. Especially with high schools, that can be extremely frustrating if you can only find blue graduation party supplies and you are wearing a red cap and gown. However, there is no need to worry about that with Party Place. They offer almost every single piece from their graduation collection in multiple colors. This means that if you just fall in love with that Green Graduation Table Decorating Kit, but you want it in black, you can totally do that!

    Also, if matching your school colors is not your thing, then there are several generic, multi color party supplies to fulfill whatever you need. Just check out these plates! So, definitely look no further than the Party Place for any of these supplies. They have tons, and you can either order online or shop in the store. It is truly whatever fits your schedule.

    However, I think graduation parties are more special and sentimental if you add some non-store bought things in addition to the decorations. For example, my family printed out a ton of photos from my time in school to commemorate such a big moment in someone’s life. Even just taking a poster frame and making a collage of tons of photos is a great way to make the party feel very special for the graduate.

    For food, just go simple and do a huge grazing table! My friend did this last year for her graduation party, and it was a fantastic way to keep everyone happy without putting stress on her family having to constantly serve everyone. They were able to enjoy the party themselves.

    Be sure to not cry too much, and just soak in the moments. They don’t last forever and graduation is proof that life just keeps changing!

  • It’s a Jungle Out There: First Birthday Idea

    It’s a Jungle Out There: First Birthday Idea

    Courtesy of Etsy

    Planning a. first birthday party can be a difficult task. Since your little one is quite small, they do not really have a way of expressing any of their interests. However, as the guardian, I am sure you know better than anyone else what they love. Afterall, even if you still have no clue what to do, I would like to think that in all honesty, the first birthday is more so for the parents than anyone else.

    So, that being said, let us plan one wild jungle party! No, I do not mean wild as in going out and partying as you did in your 20s! I am just simply making a pun about the wild outdoors!

    Look, I know I am not funny.

    In all seriousness, let’s get this party planning started.

    I was inspired by the wide variety of selections from Party Place for this specific theme. That is totally good news for you too, because if we have learned anything about my party planning style, I like things to be easy and simple.

    Courtesy of Kara’s Party Ideas

    What child does not love a good balloon? My three-year-old nephew is obsessed with balloons, and he has been since he was a small baby! Anyways, Party Place has several jungle animal balloons including an elephant, a lion, and a tiger. They are super cute and perfect for decorating the party without breaking the budget or being too much of a hassle.

    Check out the balloon options here along with photo booth supplies and napkins.

    Additionally, I think that you have a great opportunity for cute invitations as well. You could say something like “The Wild Child Turns One,” something like “Wild One,”  or “Party Animal” to keep it super simple.

    Also, for a cake, I think anything animal print or involves flora and fauna is a perfect match. Definitely check out my favorite cake decorating business in Fort Smith, Creative Kitchen. They have done so many cakes for my family, my other events, and so forth. I am always so pleased with them!

    Courtesy of Pinterest

    Courtesy of Pinterest

    For the rest of the decorations, keep it fun and simple with tons of loud animal prints and florals. Really, bigger is definitely better for this. You can totally get some cute photos of the little one with a theme like this. It is a ton of fun, not overdone, and best of all, super easy to achieve!

  • Eat, Sleep, Dunk: March Madness Party

    Eat, Sleep, Dunk: March Madness Party

    March Madness

    With the 2023 March Madness season in full swing, it only feels right to throw a party. I am sure everyone who observes this wild time has been through some highs and lows already with their dream team lineups and bracket formulations.

    I am not the most well-versed in basketball, but I enjoy some friendly competition, so March Madness is a fun time for my friends and me. So, once again, what better way to celebrate the season than to throw a basketball bash?

    Hence the title of this post, “Eat, Sleep, Dunk,” I felt inspired by some napkins available at the Party Place.

    The napkins will set the tone for the vibe of this party, and I totally think these are more than fitting. March Madness does tend to preoccupy us all (lol!).

    I think a really simple basketball watch party is more than enough for a March Madness celebration. However, that being said, I think everyone should go all out on the cupcakes. Party Place has these incredible basketball cupcake picks if you are not artistically inclined in decoration skills (me), and they will make your cupcakes look clean, crisp, and on the theme.

    However, if you want to try your hand at making basketball cupcakes (literally), then definitely check out those Pinterest recipes to get the perfect look.

    That being said, do not forget that local bakeries are also an option, and I am sure places in the River Valley area (like Creative Kitchen) would love to put your baking stress at ease and make you something great.

    Do not forget the drinks either!

    Personally, I think basketball calls for beer (accompanied by pizza and cupcakes), but feel free to do what you feel works with your party crowd the best.

    I like to keep things local when I buy beer so absolutely check out your brewery options and local suppliers.

    If you are looking for more decorations for a March Madness party, then come on down to Party Place today or check online for a payless shopping experience.

  • Feeling Lucky? A Saint Patrick’s Day Party

    Feeling Lucky? A Saint Patrick’s Day Party

    Courtesy of Best Friends for Frosting

    Saint Patrick’s Day is coming up and surely you are wondering what you are going to do for this very green holiday. My first choice would be hopping on a flight to Dublin to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in the motherland, but obviously, this is out of the question for most people.

    If you are going to Dublin for Saint Patrick’s Day, I envy you. It is a great and very fun city.

    Anyways, since we cannot go to Dublin, let’s bring the party back home!

    If there is one thing I learned while in Dublin, it is that people love to party and drink a lot of beer—especially Guinness. I gained a new appreciation for it when I went to the Guinness Storehouse (and even learned to pour the perfect pint!).

    So, rule number one for this party: get some good ol’ Irish beers. If you do not drink, no need to fret, make a fun punch, or invest in some non-alcoholic beers. The energy will be incredible with good music, vibes, and people!

    Decorations will be pretty easy for this party. I am sure we all love to hear that too. I think doing a rainbow balloon arch is a great way to add pizazz without feeling fussy. Party Place is the perfect place to get the materials for this, and our staff would be more than happy to help you out with executing the arch.

    If you click on this link, you can see our balloon options and even request a costume balloon order.

    Go for either a classic-colored rainbow arch or you can stick to a more monochromatic, green-only party palette.

    This one from Celebrate You Events is a good example of a green rainbow arch!

    Courtesy of Celebrate You Events

    For table decorations just think green and gold! Get those gold chocolate coins and spread them all over your tablespace; you will be  (literally) golden. Check out the Saint Patrick’s Day section to get a good overview of all the party supplies we offer.

    For a more elevated look, get some fresh greenery to get that spring feel and luscious look.

    Courtesy of Celebrate You Events

    Food is pretty much up to you on this one! I suggest beer, cupcakes, and soft pretzels! Pretzels go well with beer and cupcakes just go with anything. However, you can feel free to do anything else. I like to keep it simple and festive for parties like this. You can set the vibe and provide some snacks, but unless you are planning a full dinner, your guests do not expect you to feed them a four-course meal.

    I am using these cupcakes as inspiration.

    Courtesy of The Preppy Hostess

    Come on down to Party Place, and until the next party, see you!

  • 30th Birthday Bash

    30th Birthday Bash

    I love the movie 13 Going on 30. It is absolutely one of my all-time favorite rom-coms, and I definitely think everyone should watch it at least once. There are so many iconic moments in that movie, and I will truly never forget Jennifer Garner performing Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” in the rainbow-striped dress.

    Truly, it was a formative moment in my childhood. In all honestly, I probably watch this movie every few months. It has become a comfort for me, you know? Anyways, we are not here to talk about my comfort movie rewatches. However, 13 Going on 30 is integral to the party theme today.

    I have a dream to have a 30th birthday party that is 13 Going on 30 themed. I have always said I wanted to do this, and now, though I am not 30 yet, will be manifesting it until this happens.

    So, how exactly does one throw a birthday bash centered around this fan-favorite rom-com.

    Here’s the deal. I think there are a few ways you can go about this. I think one could either recreate the Poise magazine party where Jennifer Garner performs Thriller. The birthday girlie could dress up just like she did on her first night out on the town as a 30-year-old.

    This would definitely need to be in a specific venue. If you’re around the Fort Smith area, totally look into the Bakery District to see what rooms are available for rental. Even if you are located somewhere else, there are surely different restaurants, venues, and so forth that have private rooms for hire.

    Next, get a DJ. Now, this may seem costly, but with today’s technology, anyone can throw together a good playlist. I think some 80s-00s throwbacks would do the trick, and it would be pleasing to the public. Especially with Spotify or Apple Music’s endless music libraries, you can make one heck of a playlist.

    For decorations, I think simple but editorial is the way to go. Think about what Poise was going for at their party! Try and emulate that. Definitely need some projector lights, maybe a disco ball, and you know, the works.

    For drinks and food, keep it pretty lowkey. I think some nice charcuterie or grazing boards are a crowd-pleaser. You could either have a drink station set up with cocktails guests can mix or make it BYOB. That would definitely help with costs.

    Now, be sure to check with your venue that they do not already offer some sort of catering package that comes with the rental space. For example, I know the Bakery District has a room with a bar that comes with a bartender for the night.

    For a dress code, maybe suggest everyone comes dressed in their best 2000s fashion. Try to emulate the fun and flirty vibe Jennifer Garner had going for her. Let’s not Mark Ruffalo either!

    This is a good way to really amplify the party theme’s cohesion.

    Invitations will be where you can really get serious with the theme, so check out Etsy and Pinterest for inspiration and purchasing options.

    That’s all there is to it.

    Someone cue “Love is a Battlefield.” I am ready for this 13 Going on 30 birthday bash!

  • Masks On! Mardi Gras Madness

    Masks On! Mardi Gras Madness

    I say this every single year, but I love Mardi Gras. It is truly a stunning holiday to me. Tons of fun to be had for so many reasons. First and foremost, I love Mardi Gras for the food. I cannot even begin to explain how much I adore a holiday that is practically surrounded by Cajun food. Okay, sign me up? 

    On a serious note, since part of my childhood was in Florida, you can imagine that I had a pretty good connection to Mardi Gras growing up. Not to mention my family is Catholic, so honestly, this is kind of our thing! Anyways, I mention that only to let you know that I am a good person to come to for Mardi Gras. After all, it is in my top three best holidays list. 

    Some of my favorite things about Mardi Gras are the loud colors, beads, and of course, the masks! There is so much mystery involved with a fun mask, so why not plan on it on such a holiday of the year! Lucky for you, the Party Place has tons of Mardi Gras materials, including loads of masks. I propose that this year we run with the masks and do a masquerade ball!

    Courtesy of Haute Off the Track

    I am a huge fan of any sort of themed ball or gala. I mean, who does not want to get dressed up sometimes? Plus, Mardi Gras masquerade balls are the perfect place to wear some crazy outfits and go all out!

    So, why not throw your own? You can lots of inspiration for invitations on Pinterest as well as Etsy. Go ahead and come by the Party Place to get more inspo and stock up on all the goods. Just take a look online to get a peek at just a bit of what we have to offer. Telling you right now, you will not be disappointed, and you will not come home empty handed. 

    Courtesy of Giggles & Galore

    The best part about decorating for Mardi Gras is that there is no limit. You can quite literally go beyond what you consider over-the-top.

     Get the glitz, girls and boys.

    Also, do not forget that king cake! The best part of the night if you ask me. I love finding out who is going to get luck for the year with the baby Jesus!

    If you want to serve dinner too, you can never go wrong with jambalaya, gumbo, and some good ol’ shrimp po’ boys. 

    Looking for table decorations, masks, and more? Click here to get the goods from Party Place.

  • Valentine’s Day Rom Com Extravaganza

    Valentine’s Day Rom Com Extravaganza

    I love Valentine’s Day. I say that every year, but I really do mean that. I honestly do not know why I love it so much. I have been single for every Valentine’s Day except for once, but nonetheless my love for this holiday persists.

    It is probably because I am a hopeless romantic and just adore some good ol’ romantic comedies. Oh, and I love the somewhat gaudiness of Valentine’s Day decorations. Who knows why, I just do. I gave up trying to figure it out ages ago.

    Anyways, if you are a hopeless romantic like me or just love a good rom com, then this party is definitely for you.

    This is for all my single girlies out there. You do not have to be in a relationship with someone for your Valentine’s Day to not suck. All it takes is a little chocolate, wine, and goofy rom coms to really get you in the spirit.

    So, let’s throw a good party!

    Everyone will be happy to know that Party Place has everything imaginable for a Valentine’s Day Rom Com Extravaganza.

    I think something that would be super cute to do for this party is to make little goody bags for the rom com watch party.

    Also, feel free to choose any movies you’d like. One of my all-time favorites is 13 Going on 30 though, just saying.

    Anyways, these bags! Here’s what I would put in them:

    • Bags of popcorn
    • Valentine’s chocolates
    • Socks
    • Mini candle
    • Face masks
    • Other self-care essentials!

    I think this whole little extravaganza should be super relaxing. I think that’s why face masks and candles are obviously a perfect choice. I know what I’ll be doing this year on Valentine’s Day.

    However, you’ll need some bags to put this stuff in! So, take your pick from Party Place. There is so much to choose from. Just hop online and pick what you feel best! That link above goes to all Valentine’s Day items they stock! Also, don’t forget the decorations! Heart doilies, confetti, and heart balloons are always my go-to decorations. Good thing Party Place has it all. Shop online or in store, but get to shopping so that you aren’t last minute trying to get your items together. Go into this party season stress free with easy shopping at the Party Place!

  • Disco New Year’s Party

    Disco New Year’s Party

    When I think about New Year’s Eve, I think about gold, glitter, and silver. I think about champagne, parties, and fun outfits. So, let us put that all together to make the ultimate New Year’s Eve Party. Disco. New. Year’s. Eve.

    Does that not just sound so jazzy and fun? I think so, and I will definitely be talking my family into throwing a disco party this year.

    I am home from London, so obviously, we need to get this party started, literally!

    ‘Tis the new year, and ‘tis the season for fun and flirty celebrations.

    First and foremost, let’s talk about dress code. This is one of the most important aspects to me because of all the photos people are going to take! Hello, Instagram pics for the win. A necessity going into 2023.

    So dress code: definitely make it glittery and fun. Ask people to wear sequins, velvet, and anything else that rally exudes disco vibes. If they want to dress like a 70s disco star or a literal mirror ball, all things are good. So werk it!

    The best part about décor is that Party Place has you covered! This disco ball sign is literally perfect for this theme. A great way to get a little party backdrop and really set the food with this sign.

    In addition to that, literally just get all sorts of sequins, disco balls, and mirrored vases and you will have a stunning set up that is sure to shine through the night.

    For your plates for party snacks, Party Place has matching plates to the signs. These are so fun and truly just perfect for the party.

    Feel free to serve what you like, just make sure to include some champs, baby!

    Once you get these basics down, you can make one heck of a party. Just make sure to get some banging tunes. I think some 70s disco jams would be extremely fitting, and I think that is just the vibe to do. Come to Party Place to get all the goods, and you can throw a great disco NYE party this year!

    Ring in the new year with one real good time.

  • Mulled Wine and Cold Nights

    Mulled Wine and Cold Nights

    It is definitely getting colder, which definitely signifies the holidays are coming quite soon! With Thanksgiving and then Christmas right on our tails, there is one thing we have to immediately.

    Make. Mulled. Wine.

    Duh!!!

    The weather is chilly in the day and so it is only bound to be bone-chilling cold in the night! So, what better way to warm up than with a mulled wine.

    If you are not too into the idea of mulled wine, you can easily do this party with a hot apple cider or even hot chocolate. Truly is up to you, but I am a mulled wine fan, so that will be the example for now.

    This can easily be a cute little party moment if you want it to be because of how festive the drink is and well, you make your own rules and do what you want! If you want everyone to dress up according to a theme, then by all means have them do it! If you would rather this be anything else, then again, do what you please!

    I am merely suggesting seeds of thought so that you can grow an even better idea!

    However, I think a mulled wine tasting would be an amazing little party for sure.

    Everyone can bring their own mulled wine creation (Pinterest has TONS of recipes, so do food magazines, and all outlets of social media!)

    This is probably best suited for a smaller group of people—under 8 or 10—because you know… you might start feeling the mulled wine more than you would like, ha! However, if that is your vibe, then definitely… more the merrier.

    Regardless of how you want this mulled wine night to go, it is sure to be a fun time.

    Get your wine pairings ready and get brewing, this is sure to be a night you won’t forget.

    Things like cheese, meats, and breads will be your bestie for these pairings. Make sure to check out suggestions online for it.

    As for the dining ware, come on down to Party Place and get some fancy looking plastic wine glasses, snacking plates, and so much more!

  • A Bewitching Tea Party

    A Bewitching Tea Party

    I know I have mentioned it over a dozen times that I adore Halloween. It is definitely one of my favorite holidays, right up there with Christmas!

    Some people will scoff at me for saying I love Halloween, however, I find this is a result of them not realizing just how much fun you can make Halloween!

    It does not have to be about the scary ghouls, haunted houses, and spooky encounters. Well, it is, but they do not have to be disturbing or frightening!

    Put a spin on it where it is much more enjoyable and cute. It is all about taking the supernatural world and bringing it into ours in a way that is fun and just for kicks! No need to scare off your neighbors! Comes as you aren’t and have tons of fun doing so for one night of the year.

    So… I present a Bewitching Tea Party meant not only for witches but also friendly ghosts, goblins, and vampires! Honestly, you can show up as whatever you want, and it will fit the fun and friendly theme.

    For a Bewitching Tea Party, the two most important components are color palettes and food.

    Think about muted greens, deep and light purples, as well as the obvious… black.

    How witchy! Yet, it won’t look cliché with these muted tones, which gives a much more sophisticated feel.

    The other thing to consider with colors too is definitely pattern. I think these are good additives to the Halloween party scene because you can mix and match some quirky patterns to really get that classic Halloween look.

    Okay, now we have to talk food. The easy thing about a tea party is that it is all finger foods. There is no reason to do a full five course meal when you’re having a posh tea party.

    Go for these fun little macarons and mummy scones, as well as finger sandwiches. How adorable! Creative Kitchen is a great source of all sorts of these pastries and finger foods, so check them out!

    Finally, we can’t forget one very important detail for a Bewitching Tea Party. You HAVE to add these tiny cauldrons so the guests can get the full effect. Also, consider putting your table menu in a cute little spell book. You can find printable menus on Etsy or even Pinterest.

    Well, that’s all I have! Personally I will be attempting to do a party just like this while I live in London. I have to bring Halloween to the Brits, duh!

Secret Link