How to Plan a Party on a Budget

Save on entertainment

Planning a party on a budget is not hard to do. If you love entertaining and like to host parties and events, there are simple tricks and tools you can use to get the most for your money. Whether you're planning a family party for just a few or a birthday party or wedding for a bunch, you can find cost saving items almost anywhere. You just need to know where to look.

Things You'll Need

• The Budget and Guest List
• The Location
• The Food
• The Decorations

Instructions

How to Plan a Party on a Budget

1. Create a budget for your event and decide how much money you want to spend on the party. Once you have the total figure, you can then make your guest list accordingly. You can then divide the total money by the number of guests and that is the price per head or per person that you are going to spend.

2. Find a location that fits within your budget. There are many places that are available for parties and events that cost you nothing. You could have the party at your home, a friend's home, a beach or a park for no charge. There are also halls and party centers that give discounts if you have the party on an "off" day. This may vary by location so you have to research what is available to you in your area and compare prices. A good example of this is getting married on a Friday night instead of a Saturday. The prices tend to be far less expensive in that instance.

3. Call around to different caterers in your area to see what they offer in terms of large party discounts. You may find that the more people you are serving at your event, the less expensive it becomes. You can also choose to cook or to have everyone bring a dish to the party. This cuts down on costs and gets everyone involved in the planning. Another option might be to hire a student chef who is looking to make some extra money. He would cater the party at a much lower price than you would find if you actually hired a professional chef. You could also choose to serve just appetizers and finger foods as opposed to a full course meal.

4. Visit as many different stores as you can when shopping for decorations and party supplies. There are many outlet party stores that sell decorations and paper products at discounted prices. One suggestion is going to your local dollar store. They usually have a large section of paper products, streamers, party decorations and favors there and most are only a dollar. If you are having a themed party and need an outfit for the occasion, you may consider going to your local thrift store. You never know what you may find there.