Want to plan an epic party without spending a ton of money on it? It’s totally possible with all of the free and inexpensive resources that are available today. You also can have others chip in, if you wish. Enjoy planning an amazing shindig with your loved ones.
How to Plan a Party on a Budget
Outline Your Budget
You can’t begin without figuring out how much you are willing to spend on the party. This can be written out by yourself or with other people if you are going to host it together. You should over-estimate the amounts that you will need for the decorations, food and beverages, and the entertainment that you would like to have at the party. Then, you will not have an unpleasant surprise when you go over the budget.
Invitations
You can use word-of-mouth to invite people, or go through an actual free or low-cost service to create digital or print invitations. Many times, you can get cute or quirky ones that are completely free of charge.
How to Plan a Party on a Budget: Inexpensive Food
Inexpensive Foods
A one-pot dish (such as pasta with marinara and meatballs) can be a great dish to serve at a dinner party. It’s relatively inexpensive and takes very little time to prepare. Or, you can go with a few basic finger foods and snacks that will appeal to people with different tastes and dietary needs. A veggie platter, some bean dip with tortilla chips, mini barbecue hot dogs, and a cheese and pepperoni platter do not cost much and will fill people up. Alternatively, you might ask people to bring a favorite dish and make something for a potluck dinner.
BYOB
Usually meaning “Bring Your Own Beer/Booze,” you can turn this into “Bring Your Own Beverages” for an all-ages party or one where there will be guests who avoid alcohol. Even if not everyone brings drinks, it will be helpful to have a few items that you don’t have to buy and that people know they like.
Free Music
You can break out some new CD’s or order some songs on iTunes, but why not just use what you already have? Or, you can go with the radio or an Internet radio site, like Pandora. Create a list that is geared towards the birthday boy/girl or the theme of your party. It is great fun, and you can get a wide range of music this way.
DIY Decorations
You probably already visit Pinterest. If not, then you are missing out on tons of craft and home improvement hacks. There also are other places online you can find tips and tutorials for creating centerpieces, party banners, place settings and more. You may have many of the items you need for these decorations, including construction or other heavy paper, fake flowers, glitter, and paint. Your whole family or fellow hosts can help you get the party space just right!
