Want the look of stylish partyware but cringe at the cost of buying new dishes and décor every time you host a celebration? Never fear, bargain stores are here, filled with great product that, for a few loonies and toonies, let you create a sparkling, fresh look every time you send out an invitation!

To prove the point, Alice Parnis of Event Fusion scoured shops on your behalf to create this table setting in a cool blue and shimmering snow palette that hits just the right note for elegant holiday entertaining.

Her advice? Less is often more; keep it clean and simple. Candlepower is essential for a soft ambient glow. Tour craft aisles along with the kitchen supply and seasonal displays—it's rich with versatile trimmings that add unique finishing touches. Stick to a one- or two-colour scheme and use multiples of certain items for added impact. And, create different heights for interest, but keep them below eye level so guests can converse easily across the table.

For this look, here's your shopping list for a table of four:

IKEA
White table linens
Three clear glass rectangle vases
Blue ball ornaments
Clear glass votive holders and candles
One package of icicles

KITCHEN STUFF PLUS
Dishware and wine glasses

VARIOUS DOLLAR STORES
Silver tinsel garland and pipe cleaners
Iridescent powder snow
One bag of snow cloth
Bag of iridescent white craft pompoms
One package of large snowflakes
Four miniature mirrors
White acrylic craft paint (to write guest names on mini mirrors at each place setting)

RONA
Four square mirror tiles

Total cost: $89 for a table of four