Planning a child’s birthday party can bring about excitement, frustration, happiness and sheer terror, especially when it comes to looking at the cost. If you want to host a memorable party, but also want to keep costs under control, you’re in the right place, sister! Here are some tips to having a slammin’ party, keeping your bank account in check, and not having to hear your significant other whine comment about the cost!
1. Start Planning in Advance
If you want to save money, start thinking about your child’s party about a month (or more) in advance. Doing this will allow you to grab decorations with store coupons, food while it is on sale, and even birthday presents on clearance!
My household just celebrated our littlest turning the big O-N-E. I scored some amazing party decorations with 40% coupons at Hobby Lobby, got a huge pork butt to roast on sale at Kroger for under $15 and scored free cake mix at Target! There is NO WAY that I would have been able to keep costs that low without planning well in advance.
2. EVITE, EVITE, EVITE!
Stick with a FREE evite to get the job done! It saves money and paper! That’s a win-win in my book! Those super cute printed out invitations end up in the trash anyway, so save yourself some time and just log onto evite.com or create an event page on Facebook! (It’s also a super easy way to keep track of RSVPs!)
3. Head to Pinterest for FREE Printables
Pinterest can be the devil when it comes to planning a party on a budget because of all the awesome ideas that you’ll THINK that you HAVE to do. BUT, it can also be a life saver! There are some great free printable ideas for party banners, cup cake toppers, and centerpieces!
4. Utilize Dollar Tree
Dollar Tree has a fantastic selection of party supplies. This is your go-to place for paper plates, plastic table cloths, colored eating utensils and BALLOONS! (Yes, helium filled balloons my friends! There is no need to spend $4 a balloon anymore!) If you’re planning ahead and your local Dollar Tree doesn’t have a specific item or color you are looking for, check their online site by clicking here: Dollar Tree
5. Bake Your Own Cake
Sure, making a cake is a commitment. But, baking a cake is going to save you the big bucks if you’re on a tight budget. Oftentimes grocery stores run BOGO specials on cake mix and/or frosting. The cake below cost me about $9 to make and would have probably cost at least $35-$40 if ordered locally.
6. Skip the Goody Bags
Lets face it — no parent wants to bring home a bunch of little cheap toys that are going to either get stepped on or choked on. Instead of investing in the traditional goody bag, let the kids take home a balloon, have them make a craft or give them a custom cookie!
7. Keep Your Venue FREE!
Party venues can be expensive! Host the party in your home, at a friend’s home (with their permission of course), at a local park or splash pad. Sometimes your church or community center will let you host a party for free!
8. Decide on Food
If you’re following step one and have started your party planning in advance, you can scout local stores for the best deal on whatever food/drink items you are going to serve. Costco and Sam’s Club offer great prices when buying in bulk for large events. If serving an entire meal isn’t in your budget, host your party between lunch and dinner, serving some light appetizers and dessert.
9. Don’t Go Overboard
Bottom line: Kids are simple. As Moms living in a world of Pinterest we tend to go overboard and think we have to “do it all” (me included). We can amaze our kids and throw a great party without going overboard. So don’t stress yourself out, take a deep breath and focus on what really matters – that sweet kiddo you’ve been blessed with. That little one who’s another year older. The one that gave you the best job in the world: being his/her Mama!
What ways do you cut costs when planning a party? Share your tips with us in the comments!
