How to Party on a Budget
Times are tough, but that does not mean you have to completely cut back on stuff you enjoy. Parties are an event you may have to occasionally host to celebrate certain milestones such as your child’s birthday, or even you way of appreciating the friends and family who have been your support through some tough times. A party however does not need to break the bank. There are a few ways in which you can ensure a good time of everyone and have it cost you less than usual. The first thing you need to do is pick out your guests carefully.
A party on a budget needs containment so you will have to limit the number of guests you invite. If at all possible avoid high maintenance guests who are no fun at casual events and have strict dietary requirements. Avoid sending out invitations using email, this type generally tends to spiral out of control with people forwarding it to others and soon you have more than double the anticipated guests confirming. Hand written invitations are best. If you can give them in person, this will save you money on postage. You can get cheap cards at any stationary store.
Food and drinks are going to be your biggest expense, put together a simple menu and talk to your close friends to help out by assigning them certain dishes to prepare or buy for the event. You can also have guests bring a bottle for the party. This can help reduce the cost of drinks. If you must have cocktails make it something simple like a pitcher of margaritas for the girls and beers for the men. You can also use disposable dishes like paper plates and stadium cups for serving purposes. It will make clean up easier and they are cheap. For entertainment organize a good playlist on your iPod and plug it in.