How to Throw the Ultimate Cowgirl Themed Bachelorette Party (Without Breaking the Bank!)

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Picture this: Your best friend just got engaged, and she’s dreaming of a bachelorette bash that’s equal parts country charm and champagne sophistication. She wants cowboy boots and bubbly, hay bales and haute couture, line dancing and luxury vibes. Sound impossible on a realistic budget? Think again! A Cowgirl Themed Bachelorette Party is one of 2026’s hottest trends, and I’m here to share the insider secrets that’ll help you pull off a Pinterest-perfect western celebration without the luxury price tag.

I’ve planned dozens of themed bachelorette parties over the years, and let me tell you—cowgirl themes are having a major moment right now. They’re versatile, Instagram-worthy, and surprisingly budget-friendly when you know the right tricks. Whether you’re hosting in Nashville, planning a ranch weekend, or transforming your backyard into a western wonderland, this guide will show you exactly how to celebrate more while spending less.

Key Takeaways

• Budget strategically: Allocate 30% to venue/activities, 25% to food and drinks, 20% to decor, 15% to outfits/accessories, and 10% to party favors for maximum impact
• DIY your decor: Create stunning western centerpieces, backdrops, and signage for under $100 using thrift store finds, craft supplies, and natural elements
• Leverage group discounts: Book activities like line dancing lessons, horseback riding, or mechanical bull rentals as a group to save 20-40%
• Mix high and low: Splurge on one statement element (custom hats or professional photos) while going budget-friendly on everything else
• Plan 6-8 weeks ahead: Early planning unlocks better deals on accommodations, activities, and allows time for DIY projects

Planning Your Cowgirl Themed Bachelorette Party on a Budget

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Let me start with what most people overlook: planning is where you save the most money. I learned this the hard way when I threw my sister’s bachelorette party with only three weeks’ notice and ended up paying premium prices for everything. Never again!

Setting Your Budget and Timeline

The sweet spot for planning a Cowgirl Themed Bachelorette Party is 6-8 weeks out. This gives you enough time to hunt for deals, complete DIY projects, and coordinate with your crew without the stress.

Here’s my tried-and-true budget breakdown for a party of 8-10 guests:

Category	Percentage	Budget Example ($500 total)	Budget Example ($1000 total)
Venue/Activities	30%	$150	$300
Food & Drinks	25%	$125	$250
Decorations	20%	$100	$200
Outfits/Accessories	15%	$75	$150
Party Favors	10%	$50	$100

Pro tip: Create a shared spreadsheet where everyone can see costs upfront. Transparency eliminates awkward money conversations later and helps everyone commit to what they can afford.

Choosing the Perfect Venue

You don’t need a actual ranch to nail this theme (though if you have access to one, yeehaw!). Here are my favorite budget-friendly venue options:

Backyard Transformation (Cost: $0-50)
This is my go-to recommendation. A backyard offers unlimited decorating freedom and zero venue fees. I once transformed my friend’s suburban patio into a stunning western oasis for under $75. The secret? Strategic planning and knowing where to source affordable decor.

Airbnb Cabin or Farmhouse (Cost: $30-60 per person for weekend)
Split among 8-10 guests, a rustic Airbnb becomes incredibly affordable. Look for properties with:

• Outdoor space for activities
• Fire pit for s’mores and storytelling
• Rustic aesthetic that requires minimal additional decor
• Kitchen to save on catering costs

Local Barn or Community Center (Cost: $100-300)
Many communities have rental spaces that are already western-themed. Check your local parks and recreation department—these hidden gems often cost a fraction of commercial venues.

Nashville or Western-Themed City (Splurge Option)
If the bride’s heart is set on Nashville, Austin, or another country music hub, make it work by booking during off-peak seasons (January-March, excluding holidays) and staying slightly outside the downtown core.

Creating Your Guest List and Invitations

Keep your core group intimate—8-12 guests is the sweet spot for managing costs while maintaining that close-knit vibe. More people means exponentially higher costs for activities, transportation, and coordination headaches.

For invitations, skip the $5-per-card custom prints. Instead:

✨ Use Canva’s free templates and customize with western fonts, rope borders, and boot graphics
✨ Send digital invites via email or create a private Facebook event
✨ DIY physical invites using kraft paper, twine, and printable designs (under $15 for 12 invites)

Include these essential details:

• Date, time, and location
• Dress code (more on this later!)
• Preliminary budget per person
• RSVP deadline (at least 3 weeks before the event)
• Hashtag for the weekend (#SaddleUpSarah or #BridesLastRodeo)

Similar to how you’d approach planning a budget-friendly wedding, the key is prioritizing what matters most to your bride and allocating funds accordingly.

Cowgirl Themed Bachelorette Party Decorations That Look Expensive

This is where the magic happens, friends. Decorations set the entire mood, and with cowgirl themes, you can create serious wow-factor without the designer price tag.

The Power of a Cohesive Color Palette

Choose 2-3 main colors and stick to them religiously. My favorite combinations for 2026:

🎨 Dusty Rose + Denim + Cream (romantic western)
🎨 Terracotta + Turquoise + Tan (southwest vibes)
🎨 Blush + Rose Gold + White (elevated country)
🎨 Burgundy + Navy + Copper (autumn ranch)

Once you’ve selected your palette, every decoration decision becomes easier and your space looks professionally designed.

Budget-Friendly Decor Essentials

Hay Bales ($5-8 each)
The foundation of any cowgirl party! Source these from local farms or feed stores. Cover them with blankets, Navajo-print throws, or burlap for instant seating. After the party, return them or use them in your garden.

Bandanas ($0.50-1 each in bulk)
Buy a pack of 12 from Amazon in your chosen colors. Use them as:

• Napkins
• Table runners (tie end-to-end)
• Chair decorations
• Party favors
• Cute accessories for guests

Mason Jars ($0.50-1 each at thrift stores)
I cannot stress this enough: never buy new mason jars. Thrift stores are overflowing with them. Use for:

• Drinking glasses
• Flower vases
• Candle holders (add sand and tea lights)
• Utensil holders

Rope and Twine ($5-10)
A 100-foot roll of natural rope creates endless decorating opportunities:

• Frame mirrors or signs
• Create garlands
• Tie around mason jars
• Make napkin rings
• Border for photo booth

Wildflowers or Dried Arrangements ($20-30 total)
Skip the florist! Hit up Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, or your local farmers market the day before. Wildflowers like sunflowers, wheat stalks, and baby’s breath scream western and cost a fraction of formal arrangements. Even better—forage for free if you have access to fields or dried grasses.

DIY Backdrop and Photo Booth

Every bachelorette party needs an Instagram-worthy photo spot. Here’s my $30 backdrop formula:

Materials:

• Wooden pallet or tension rod ($0-15, check Facebook Marketplace)
• Cream or burlap fabric ($10-15)
• String lights ($5-10, use what you have)
• Greenery garland or bandana bunting ($5)

Assembly:

1. Secure fabric as backdrop
2. Drape string lights across the top
3. Add garland or bunting
4. Place hay bale or barrel in front for posing

Props (source from thrift stores and dollar stores):

• Cowboy hats
• Foam horses or stick horses
• Lassos
• “Bride’s Last Rodeo” signs
• Vintage boots filled with flowers
• Sheriff badges
• Speech bubbles with country phrases

The entire setup takes 30 minutes and creates hundreds of shareable moments.

Table Settings and Centerpieces

Create stunning tablescapes using these affordable elements:

Base: Burlap or kraft paper runners ($5-10)

Centerpieces: Cluster three elements together:

1. Mason jar with wildflowers
2. Candle (pillar or tea light)
3. Small western accent (miniature cowboy boot, horseshoe, or vintage lantern)

Place Settings:

• Bandana napkins
• Kraft paper placemats (or butcher paper as table covering for guests to write messages)
• Simple white plates (borrow or use what you have)
• Tied silverware bundles with twine and a sprig of greenery

Signage:
DIY all your signs using:

• Wooden boards from craft stores ($3-5 each)
• Chalk markers or paint pens
• Stencils or your best handwriting

Sign ideas:

• “Saddle Up, [Bride’s Name] is Getting Hitched!”
• “Boots, Booze & I Do’s”
• “Bride’s Last Rodeo”
• Directional arrows to different party zones

For more inspiration on creating beautiful party aesthetics on a budget, check out these aesthetic birthday decoration ideas that translate perfectly to bachelorette parties.

Cowgirl Themed Bachelorette Party Outfits and Accessories

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The outfits are half the fun! But coordinating looks for 10 people can get expensive fast if you’re not strategic.

The Bride’s Look

The bride should stand out without spending a fortune. Here’s my formula:

Base Outfit Options:

• White denim shorts + white lace bralette or crop top ($30-50)
• White sundress with western boots ($40-70)
• White romper with fringe details ($35-60)

Statement Pieces:

• Custom cowboy hat ($25-45): This is worth the splurge! Etsy sellers offer personalized hats with “Bride,” her new last name, or wedding date. She’ll treasure this forever.
• Sash or belt ($8-15): “Bride’s Last Rodeo” or “Bride to Be”
• Boots ($50-100): If she doesn’t own cowboy boots, this is a practical investment she’ll wear again

Accessories:

• Turquoise jewelry
• Fringe vest
• Temporary metallic tattoos
• Custom koozie

Total bride outfit: $120-200 (much of which she’ll rewear)

Bridesmaids’ Coordinated Looks

The key is giving guidelines, not demanding identical outfits. This respects everyone’s budget and body type.

Color Palette Approach:
“Wear denim and blush tones” or “Dress in all white with denim accents”

Suggested Pieces (each person likely owns or can thrift):

• Denim shorts or jeans
• White or colored tank tops
• Plaid shirts
• Sundresses in coordinating colors
• Ankle boots or cowboy boots

Matching Elements (coordinate these for cohesion):

• Bandanas ($1 each): Everyone wears the same color around their neck, as headband, or tied to belt loop
• Custom tank tops ($12-18 each): If the group wants matching shirts, use a service like CustomInk or Etsy. Keep designs simple to reduce costs
• Hats ($15-25 each): Plain cowboy hats in the same color that everyone can personalize with hat bands

Budget-Friendly Hat Hack:
Buy plain straw cowboy hats in bulk ($12-15 each on Amazon), then DIY custom hat bands using:

• Ribbon in your color palette
• Small flowers
• Feathers
• Each person’s name written on a wooden tag

This creates a cohesive look while letting everyone’s personality shine through.

Accessories That Complete the Look

For Everyone:

• Koozies with custom graphics ($3-5 each in bulk)
• Temporary tattoos ($10 for a full sheet)
• Sunglasses with western flair
• Fringe crossbody bags
• Turquoise jewelry

Pro Shopping Tips:

• Check Amazon for bulk cowgirl party supplies
• Scour thrift stores for vintage western wear
• Use Poshmark or Depop for secondhand boots
• Shop post-Halloween sales for cowgirl costume elements

The best part? Unlike some bachelorette themes that require costumes you’ll never wear again, western pieces integrate seamlessly into regular wardrobes. Those boots, denim shorts, and bandanas will get plenty of use long after the party.

Cowgirl Themed Bachelorette Party Activities and Entertainment

Activities make or break a bachelorette party. The good news? Western-themed entertainment offers incredible variety at every price point.

Free and Low-Cost Activities

Line Dancing Tutorial ($0-50)
YouTube is full of free line dancing tutorials. Create a playlist of country favorites, clear some space, and let someone with dance experience lead the group. Or hire a local dance instructor for a private 1-hour lesson ($50-100 split among guests).

Essential songs for your playlist:

• “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” – Brooks & Dunn
• “Watermelon Crawl” – Tracy Byrd
• “Copperhead Road” – Steve Earle
• “Footloose” – Blake Shelton
• Any current country hits

Backyard Rodeo Games ($20-40 total)
Create DIY games using items you probably have:

• Horseshoe toss (borrow or buy a set for $20)
• Lasso practice (use hula hoops as targets, rope from hardware store)
• Cowgirl relay races (boot race, hay bale hop, water bucket carry)
• Pin the Tail on the Cowboy (DIY version of the classic)

Bonfire and S’mores ($30-50)
If your venue allows, a bonfire creates the perfect western ambiance. Add:

• S’mores supplies
• Acoustic country music
• Cozy blankets
• Story sharing or games around the fire

DIY Flower Crown Station ($25-40)
Set up a crafting station with:

• Floral wire and tape
• Assorted dried or fresh flowers
• Greenery
• Ribbon

Everyone creates their own crown to wear during the party and take home.

Mid-Range Activities ($50-150 per group)

Mechanical Bull Rental ($100-200 for 2 hours)
This is the ultimate cowgirl party activity! Many party rental companies offer mechanical bulls with operator included. Split among 10 guests, it’s only $10-20 per person for hours of entertainment and hilarious photo ops.

Horseback Riding ($40-80 per person)
Check local stables for group trail rides. Many offer discounts for parties of 8+. Book a morning ride, then head back to your venue for lunch and more festivities.

Wine or Whiskey Tasting ($25-50 per person)
Many wineries and distilleries offer group tastings. Look for venues with rustic or western aesthetics to maintain your theme. Some even have outdoor spaces perfect for photos.

Professional Photo Shoot ($150-300)
Hire a photographer for 1-2 hours to capture your group in full cowgirl glory. Split among everyone, it’s $15-30 per person for professional photos you’ll treasure forever. Look for emerging photographers building their portfolios who offer lower rates.

Splurge-Worthy Experiences

Nashville Weekend ($300-500 per person)
If you’re going all-in, a Nashville bachelorette is the ultimate cowgirl experience. Budget breakdown:

• Airbnb: $60-80 per person for 2 nights
• Honky-tonk bar hopping: $50-100 (drinks and cover charges)
• Broadway boots shopping: $50-150
• Meals: $80-120
• Transportation: $30-50

Book during shoulder season and stay in East Nashville or Germantown for better rates than downtown.

Dude Ranch Weekend ($200-400 per person)
All-inclusive dude ranch experiences include accommodations, meals, horseback riding, and activities. While pricier, the per-person cost becomes reasonable when everything’s included.

Private Concert or Performer ($300-800)
Hire a local country band or acoustic performer for a private concert at your venue. This creates an unforgettable experience and amazing entertainment.

Creating the Perfect Schedule

Don’t over-schedule! Build in downtime for spontaneous fun, getting ready together, and those deep conversations that make bachelorette parties special.

Sample Saturday Schedule:

• 10:00 AM – Brunch and mimosas
• 12:00 PM – Main activity (horseback riding, mechanical bull, etc.)
• 3:00 PM – Return to venue, pool/relaxation time
• 5:00 PM – Get ready together (this is prime bonding time!)
• 7:00 PM – Dinner
• 9:00 PM – Evening activity (line dancing, bonfire, bar hopping)
• Midnight+ – Late night shenanigans

For more guidance on timing your events perfectly, this stress-free wedding day timeline offers great insights that apply to any celebration.

Food and Drinks: Western Style on a Budget

Food is where you can seriously save or seriously overspend. Choose wisely!

Budget-Friendly Catering Options:

BBQ Buffet ($12-18 per person)
Partner with a local BBQ joint for catering. Most offer party packages with pulled pork, chicken, sides, and all the fixings. This feels authentically western and feeds a crowd affordably.

Taco Bar ($8-12 per person)
Set up a DIY taco station with:

• Seasoned beef and chicken
• Tortillas (flour and corn)
• Toppings bar: lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, salsa, guacamole
• Chips and queso

Potluck Style ($5-8 per person)
Assign categories to different guests:

• Appetizers
• Main dishes
• Sides
• Desserts
• Drinks

This dramatically reduces costs while giving everyone ownership in the celebration.

Charcuterie and Grazing Tables ($40-80 total)
Create a stunning spread using:

• Cheese and crackers
• Cured meats
• Fresh and dried fruits
• Nuts
• Vegetables and dips
• Bread and spreads

Arrange on wooden boards or butcher paper for that rustic aesthetic. This works perfectly for afternoon celebrations or as appetizers before dinner.

Signature Cocktails

Skip the full bar and offer 2-3 signature drinks:

“Bride’s Last Rodeo” (Whiskey Lemonade)

• Whiskey
• Fresh lemonade
• Mint
• Lemon wheels
• Serve in mason jars

“Cowgirl Sangria”

• White wine
• Peach schnapps
• Fresh peaches and berries
• Lemon-lime soda

“Saddle Up Spritzer”

• Prosecco
• Elderflower liqueur
• Fresh berries

Budget Bar Tips:

• Buy alcohol at Costco or wholesale clubs
• Make large batches of signature cocktails rather than individual drinks
• Offer beer and wine alongside cocktails
• Create a beautiful drink station so guests self-serve
• Use mason jars as glasses (they’re on theme and eliminate rental costs)

Desserts

Cowboy Boot Cookies ($20-30)
Order or make sugar cookies shaped like boots, hats, and horseshoes. Decorate in your color palette.

S’mores Bar ($25-35)
Set up a DIY s’mores station with:

• Graham crackers
• Multiple chocolate options
• Marshmallows
• Sterno for indoor roasting

Sheet Cake with Western Flair ($30-50)
A simple sheet cake from a grocery store bakery, decorated with:

• Bandana-print frosting border
• Cowboy boot cake topper
• Fresh flowers
• “Bride’s Last Rodeo” message

For more creative dessert ideas that won’t break the bank, explore these affordable alternatives to expensive birthday cakes that work beautifully for bachelorette parties too.

Party Favors and Finishing Touches

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Send your guests home with thoughtful favors that won’t blow your budget.

Affordable Favor Ideas ($3-8 per person)

Custom Koozies
Order in bulk with the bride’s name, wedding date, or a fun saying like “Saddle Up!” Everyone uses these, making them practical and memorable.

Hangover Kits
Assemble small bags with:

• Pain reliever
• Electrolyte packet
• Mints or gum
• Hair tie
• Face wipes
• Fun note: “Thanks for celebrating with us!”

Package in small kraft bags tied with twine and a western-themed tag.

Miniature Succulents
Tiny succulents in terracotta pots ($2-3 each) with custom tags saying “Thanks for helping us grow.” Tie a bandana around the pot for extra flair.

Homemade Treats
Package homemade cookies, candies, or trail mix in mason jars or cellophane bags tied with ribbon and custom tags.

Bandanas
The bandanas worn during the party double as favors! Everyone takes theirs home as a keepsake.

Custom Temporary Tattoos
Order a sheet of custom metallic tattoos with western designs, the bride’s name, or wedding date. These cost pennies per person and create great photo ops during the party.

Personal Touches That Cost Nothing

Handwritten Notes
Write each guest a personal thank-you note expressing what their friendship means to the bride. Place at their seat or in their favor bag.

Photo Slideshow
Create a slideshow of photos featuring the bride with each guest. Play during dinner or downtime.

Memory Jar
Have guests write favorite memories with the bride on decorative paper, then collect in a mason jar for her to read later.

Polaroid Guest Book
Take Polaroids throughout the party and have guests add them to a scrapbook with messages. This becomes a treasured keepsake.

The Ultimate Packing List

Make sure you don’t forget anything! Here’s my comprehensive checklist:

Decorations:

• ✅ Hay bales
• ✅ Bandanas
• ✅ Mason jars
• ✅ String lights
• ✅ Flowers/greenery
• ✅ Rope and twine
• ✅ Candles
• ✅ Signage
• ✅ Photo booth props
• ✅ Table linens

Supplies:

• ✅ Plates, cups, napkins, utensils
• ✅ Serving dishes and utensils
• ✅ Coolers and ice
• ✅ Trash bags
• ✅ Paper towels
• ✅ First aid kit
• ✅ Phone chargers
• ✅ Bluetooth speaker
• ✅ Extension cords
• ✅ Scissors, tape, zip ties

Party Essentials:

• ✅ Guest favors
• ✅ Games and activities
• ✅ Camera or phone for photos
• ✅ Bride’s special accessories
• ✅ Emergency kit (safety pins, stain remover, etc.)
• ✅ Playlist downloaded
• ✅ Itinerary printed

Food and Drink:

• ✅ All ingredients for meals
• ✅ Alcohol and mixers
• ✅ Non-alcoholic options
• ✅ Snacks
• ✅ Coffee and tea
• ✅ Water bottles

Money-Saving Timeline

8 Weeks Before:

• Set budget and collect deposits
• Book venue and major activities
• Send invitations
• Start DIY projects

6 Weeks Before:

• Finalize guest list
• Order custom items (hats, koozies, shirts)
• Plan menu
• Create playlist

4 Weeks Before:

• Purchase non-perishable decorations
• Confirm all bookings
• Assign potluck items if applicable
• Shop for outfits

2 Weeks Before:

• Finalize schedule
• Purchase remaining supplies
• Prep any make-ahead food items
• Create signage

1 Week Before:

• Grocery shop for perishables
• Confirm headcount
• Pack decorations and supplies
• Charge all devices

Day Before:

• Set up venue (if possible)
• Prep food
• Organize supplies
• Get good sleep!

Just like planning bachelorette ideas for every bride, the key is customizing to your specific group while staying true to your budget.

Real Talk: What Actually Matters

I’ve been to elaborate bachelorette parties that cost thousands and simple gatherings that cost hundreds. You know what I’ve learned? The best parties aren’t about the budget—they’re about the people and the thought behind every detail.

Your bride doesn’t need a $5,000 Nashville blowout to feel celebrated. She needs her favorite people, thoughtful touches that show you know her, and an atmosphere where everyone can relax and have genuine fun.

That DIY photo booth you made from a $15 pallet? She’ll treasure those photos forever. The handwritten notes from each friend? She’ll cry reading them. The inside jokes that become running gags throughout the weekend? Priceless.

The cowgirl theme is brilliant because it’s inherently fun, forgiving, and flexible. You can go full rodeo or subtle western. You can spend $300 or $3,000. The theme adapts to your vision and budget.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-scheduling: Leave breathing room in your itinerary. Some of the best moments happen spontaneously.

Ignoring dietary restrictions: Ask about allergies and preferences upfront. Having options ensures everyone feels included.

Forgetting the bride’s comfort level: Not every bride wants a mechanical bull or honky-tonk bar crawl. Plan activities she’ll genuinely enjoy.

Waiting too long to collect money: Get deposits early to avoid awkward chasing and ensure you can book what you need.

Skipping a backup plan: Have indoor alternatives if you’re planning outdoor activities. Weather happens.

Not delegating: You don’t have to do everything yourself! Assign tasks to willing helpers.

Conclusion: Saddle Up and Celebrate!

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Planning a Cowgirl Themed Bachelorette Party doesn’t require a trust fund or a professional event planner—just creativity, strategic thinking, and a willingness to DIY when it makes sense. By focusing your budget on what matters most (whether that’s an unforgettable activity, stunning photos, or amazing food), and getting scrappy with the rest, you’ll create a celebration that feels expensive while protecting everyone’s wallets.

Remember these key strategies:

• Plan early to access the best deals and complete DIY projects stress-free
• Choose a cohesive color palette that makes everything look intentionally designed
• DIY your decorations using thrift store finds, natural elements, and craft supplies
• Coordinate outfits without demanding identical (expensive) pieces
• Mix free activities with one or two splurge-worthy experiences
• Get creative with food and drinks through potlucks, signature cocktails, and strategic catering

The western theme is forgiving, fun, and incredibly photogenic. Whether you’re transforming a backyard, booking a rustic Airbnb, or heading to Nashville, you now have all the insider secrets to pull off a professional-level celebration on a realistic budget.

So grab your boots, round up your crew, and get ready to throw the bachelorette party of the year. Your bride deserves an unforgettable celebration, and you’re about to prove that “celebrate more, spend less” isn’t just a motto—it’s a lifestyle.

Now saddle up and start planning! That bride-to-be is counting on you, and you’ve got this. 🤠✨

Ready to start planning? Download my free bachelorette party budget spreadsheet at Plan On A Penny and join thousands of savvy hosts who are throwing Pinterest-worthy parties without the Pinterest prices!

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References

[1] National Retail Federation. (2026). “Wedding and Bachelorette Party Spending Trends.” Consumer Insights Report.

[2] The Knot. (2026). “Real Bachelorette Party Budget Survey Results.” Annual Wedding Study.

[3] Eventbrite. (2025). “Top Party Themes and Trends for 2026.” Event Planning Insights.

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