8 Tips for a Hosting a Successful Budget Birthday Party

I’m betting sometimes you see parties on blogs like this one and think, “Well, that’d be nice if I had the budget.” But I’m here to tell you that you can stage a great looking — and more importantly, a fun party — without spending a fortune. Here are 8 Tips for a Hosting a Successful Budget Birthday Party.

1 – To keep a party affordable, I think it’s vital to have a concept. That will help you narrow down your choices, so you don’t feel overwhelmed and begin over-buying. The more specific, the better. For instance, not just a “tea party” but a “pink and yellow vintage tea party.”

(See more of my tea party here.)

2 – I’m a big believer in at-home parties, and this is a key way to keep your costs down. Your house doesn’t have to be perfect or look like it’s in a magazine. Remember, if you aren’t paying for a rental space, you can put those funds towards games, decorations and treats — and create a much more personalized event. My dining room is home to many of our events.

(See more of my Letters to Santa Party here.)

3 – Limit your guest list. You really don’t have to invite the whole class — just send the invitations to homes or through the teachers. And tell your kids to not talk about their party at school.

(See more of my St. Patrick’s Day Party here.)

4 – Next, think about the time of day you want to hold your party. A mid-afternoon event means you can go easy on the food and desserts.

(See more of my Wizard of Oz party here.)

5 – Once you have those decisions down, decide on your budget. Be creative and you can stick to it! It’s just a matter of deciding what you are willing to do yourself and what is worth paying for. I often make my own cakes, which will save me about $65. A little banner made out of paper scraps (like this one) can dress up even a plain cake — or pie.

(See more of my 4th of July party here.)

6 – Look around your home. You’ll be amazed at what you can repurpose for your party. For the things you’ll need to buy, try Goodwill, Dollar Tree and your local craft store for starters. I look at this Easter table and see fabrics, plates, a frame, napkins, an apothecary jar and plastic eggs that I already owned. The parfait glasses were a new addition, but they came from a consignment shop for just over $1 a piece.

(See more of my Shabby Chic Easter Party here.)

7 – I also love to support mom-based businesses, so check out Etsy. Finding party printables can be an inexpensive way to establish your theme and make your party special. (Check out our Freebies page to save even more.) This banner is from Squared Party Printables.

(See more of my Trick or Treat Party here.)

8 – Finally, involve your kids. I promise you they’ll have some inspired ideas! (Like my daughter, who wanted to paint someone green at our Wizard of Oz Party.)

(See more of my Valentine’s Sweetheart Party here.)

Remember, your party doesn’t have to be over the top — it just has to make your child happy. Have a great party!

(Photography by Viridian Images Photography)