Guest post from Kelli of Freebie Finding Mom:
Whether it's a birthday, a new baby, or a wedding anniversary, life offers us plenty of moments worth celebrating and commemorating. Unfortunately, if you're on a tight budget, finding the funds to do those moments justice can be a challenge.
Don't despair; there are simple steps you can take take to ensure your special day is filled with joy instead of financial anxiety. From birthday bashes to baby showers, here are 3 tips to help you throw a rocking party on a bare bones budget!
Tip #1 – Use Free Printables
The Internet is filled with free printables that can help out with nearly every single facet of your party.
Regardless of what kind of party or event you're hosting, a quick Google or Pinterest search will turn up tons of appropriate printables for things like invitations, decor, and games.
For example, if you're throwing a baby shower, snag a set of these free printable diaper raffle tickets. They encourage guests to bring diapers, something every mom-to-be is in desperate need of, in exchange for a chance to win a prize.
In addition to saving you money, these printables can save you time. Instead of carving time out of your schedule to hit up a party store, you can take care of business right from home!
The cost for these printables? Paper, ink, and perhaps your email address. That's it.
Tip #2 – DIY
If saving money is your main priority, it's time to DIY.
Obviously, DIY projects may cost you more time than store-bought alternatives, but they'll definitely help relieve the strain on your wallet.
DIY projects can help out with every area of your party from the food to the favors. For example, if you're throwing a child's birthday party, consider DIY mini pizzas as the food. The kids will have a blast decorating their own pies and you'll save on those delivery fees.
DIY party favors like Mason jar play-dough are a frugal and fun option that are much more exciting than cheap plastic toys or sugar filled treats.
When it comes to DIY, the trick is to get creative.
For each aspect of your party, take a moment to ask yourself "How can I make this?" If you need centerpieces consider snagging Mason jars or vases from the thrift store and filling them with colorful wildflowers or found nature objects. If you need entertainment, turn to the Internet for free playlists from Spotify or Pandora.
If you aren't a DIY diva, I feel your pain! I can be pretty dangerous with a glue gun myself. Luckily, plenty of DIY projects are stunningly simple. However, if you encounter something that is beyond your skill level, ask a crafty friend or family member to donate his or her time to the cause, perhaps in lieu of a gift.
Tip #3 – Opt for Generic Themes Over Brand Names
Okay, this last tip mostly applies to children's birthday parties, but it can save you so much money that I just had to mention it. Are you ready?
Avoid those Disney princesses and superheroes like the plague! 🙂
Elmo, Eeyore, Elsa, and Iron Man (I couldn't think of a superhero that starts with "E!") come with a brand name price tag that'll blast your budget to smithereens. Instead, opt for generic party themes like:
Opting for these more generic themes will save you money on decor, invitations, and potentially even food, and trust me, your kiddo will still have a fantastic time!
Are you ready to rock and roll all night (or at least until 8 PM)?
You don't need the budget of an internationally known rock star to throw an epic party people will talk about for years to come.
Nope, just use these 3 tips to save big on your next bash!
Kelli Bhattacharjee, the proprietor of freebiefindingmom.com, is a former investment professional with nearly ten years of experience who has a passion for showing others how to live a frugal yet fabulous life.
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