Photo by Flickr user, Szapucki
Something about summer makes us want to gather our friends and have a party. Even though we can’t always throw a lavish party, that doesn't mean we can’t have a good time!
Here are some cheaper alternatives for entertaining than the traditional party methods.
Homemade Invites
You don’t have to be an artist to make your own invitations. Microsoft Word has several templates for basic invites. They may not be as fabulous as store-bought, but they’ll do the job. If you do have some artistic ability, then your homemade invites will put those store ones to shame. Grab the paint, construction paper, and scissors and get to work!
Go In Together
Whether your fete is for family or friends, see if they want to share the expense. Splitting the bill can save big. If you can’t find a partner in crime, make it a potluck! You can provide the main course and everyone else can bring a side. Outline in the invitation that everyone will need to contribute to make the party a success! This works great when holding a barbecue!
Photo by Flickr user, Steven Depolo
Keep It Small
To save money, keep the party small. Small is in the eye of the beholder, so choose a number of guests that works best for you. If you’re partying in the backyard, keep the amount of space in consideration. You’ll want to have ample room for seating, games, and food.
Hit the Farmer’s Market
The local farmer’s market is a great place to buy goods and support your local community. It’s cheaper than the store, the food is fresh, and you can often haggle for a lower price. Get there early for the best choice in produce. Some markets have meat too!
Photo by Flickr user, Steven Depolo
Go Easy on Décor and Stay Cheap
If your party is themed, Oriental Trading is a great place to purchase cheap supplies. Hobby Lobby has lots of sales on party stuff too. Keep your eyes open for great deals. Also, save money on paper products by using your own dishes. It’s a lot cheaper than buying paper or plastic cups, plates, and silverware.
BYOD (Bring Your Own Drinks)
Drinks can get expensive, and most guests have no problem bringing their own. That way, everyone gets what they want. Don’t forget to include it on the invitation. If you feel like you need to provide some kind of beverage, stick to lemonade and ice water. It’s always a safe bet.
Play Simple, but Fun Group Games
There are tons of great group games that cost little to own or play. There’s something for everyone! Here are just a few: ultimate Frisbee, croquet, wiffle ball, capture the flag, three legged races, charades, and kickball. Want to go all out? Create a scavenger hunt!
Photo by Flickr user, Wendy Harman
Forget the DJ
A party isn’t a party without music, but who needs a DJ when you’ve got Spotify and Pandora? Hook up your phone or iPod and let the music flow. With Spotify, you can take requests and add them to your party playlist! You save money and your guests get the music they want. Everybody wins!
Entertain on the Cheap! by Liz Carroll
