need to party on a budget?
my top budget birthday party ideas
I have some examples of no- to low-dollar dessert tables on my blog, but when you factor in a full party, I think you’d be hard pressed to pull it off for less than $350. Food, drinks, decorations, activities, party favors … it adds up, even if you are watching your budget like a hawk.
There are no wrong answers when it comes to deciding what you “must have” for your party. Only you can make that choice. (Read “When Is It Worth It to Spend Money on Your Party?” for 8 questions to ask yourself when you’re trying to make that call.)
If you have big dreams on a little budget, be prepared to compromise. Decide what your priority is and spend your money there. Look to the rest of your to-do list for the compromise areas.
If your dreams are getting a little out of control, remember that most of us grew up with parties that consisted of cake, ice cream, balloons, and homemade party hats. That’s it. And we loved them.
Shopping
Shop at home first. You’ll be amazed what you can re-purpose for your party. Have a candle stand? Turn it into a cake stand. Have a white bed sheet? Turn it into a tablecloth.
Shop friends and family next. You can borrow almost anything with the promise of a big slab of birthday cake.
Shop Goodwill. You never know when you’ll get lucky. Hit your find with a little spray paint, and you’ll have something fabulous.
Seek out free party printables. (And be sure to start with my freebies pages.)
Think substitution: printable cupcake toppers are more affordable than fondant toppers, but just as cute.
Did you wait too long to plan your party? Be prepared to pay rush fees. Your delay is not someone else’s problem.
When to Spend
If you are working with a party planner, share your budget upfront. She will know how to stretch your dollars in a way that makes the most sense.
When you do spend those party dollars, invest in things that last: white fabric tablecloths, white serving pieces, fabric rather than paper … these are all things you can use over and over.
This is not the time to ask your bakery for a three-layer fondant cake. Expect to pay $200 or way, way more for an elaborate cake. Opt for a white, buttercream frosted cake from the grocery store and top it with a free printable.
Party planning should be fun— not stressful!
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