We love to throw a good party no matter what the occasion may be, but let’s face it, between the decor, the cocktails, the food, the ice, the this, the that, party planning can turn into a really big financial obligation when the whole point is just to have fun. But we firmly believe you can throw a pretty incredible shindig for pennies on the dollar. Here are just a few of our best tips when it comes to being bougie on a budget and throwing a party.
Keep Your Guest List Small
Hey, there’s no shame in limiting the number of guests you’re having at a party. Stick to close friends and family and not only will the vibes be intimate, but when you stop inviting people to things because you feel obligated to, you have a way better time.
Offer a Food Bar
Sure, the idea of serving up your favorite dish sounds great in theory, but that gets pricey, and some people have food allergies, and others are just picky, so instead offer a food option that gives them most of the control. Nacho bars, baked potato bars, soup and salad bars, or even a simple sandwich bar are a hit among party-goers and there’s the added benefit of not spending a whole lot of money.
Free Printables Are Your New Best Friends
Pinteresting is full of free printables that make for great decor. Here’s the thing, you’re probably going to throw all of the decor away after your party anyhow, so free printables in thrifted frames will save you a TON of money. And while you’re hitting up your local thrift store, nag some cheap vases you can put supermarket flowers in, and your decor is pretty much taken care of.
Just Accept It
Help, that is. People are going to ask what they can bring and while it’s super hard for a lot of us to accept, just let them bring a little something. Whether it’s a dessert or picking up napkins on the way over, people really love to feel like they’re contributing and this can save you some time and money. (Just don’t forget to do the same thing when you’re invited to a party!)
Get Baked
Rather than fork over the money for someone else or a bakery to be the supplier of sweets at your party, bake your own. Whether you opt for cookies, pies, cakes, brownies, or ice cream, nobody is going to complain about something that was made with love. (Who are we kidding? Nobody is going to complain about dessert.)
Dollar, Dollar Bills
The Dollar Tree needs to be your one-stop shop before you head anywhere else. Here you can get cups, napkins, plates, platters, plastic ware, plastic serving utensils, you name it. These are the things that tend to add up when you’re planning a party, but buying cheap things you can toss saves you, say it with us, time and money.