In today's economy, hosting your child's birthday party at a local pizza parlor, skating rink, or other party venue is an expense that is hard to justify. That doesn't mean you can't still throw your child a memorable party. By hosting the party in your own home, the party will be more unique and special - and much easier on your wallet!
The first step is to send out invitations at least 2-3 weeks in advance of the party. There are many affordable invitation choices available online or at stores like Target. If you wish to save, though, it's perfectly acceptable to send email invitations via sites like Evite or MyPunchbowl.
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It is important to decide on a theme for the party. Pick a theme that your child will love. Dinosaur, Princess, and Space are all popular themes for younger kids. For older kids, consider a Movie Night or Scavenger Hunt. Your theme will help every other aspect of the party fall into place easily, as it will determine what your invitations, cups, plates, and overall decor should be.
Food is generally the biggest cost for any party. However, with the right approach to the food, you can still have a nice spread without spending a lot of money. It's best to serve a buffet so guests can help themselves, and parents can choose what their child eats. You can always pre-buy foods to just reheat and serve, but it's generally more cost-effective to prepare your own. If you stick with preparing finger foods - baked chicken nuggets, mini pizza bagels, and the like - your cooking duties will be minimal, and there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
It's not necessary to go out and buy an expensive birthday cake, either. Consider making cupcakes instead. Allow guests to decorate their own cupcakes by putting out different bowls of candy and fruit out. The kids will far more enjoy eating something they helped decorate.
As for decorations and favors, keep things simple. All you really need to decorate with is streamers and balloons that coordinate with your theme. Adding a few accents to your serving tables, such as Matchbox cars if you have a Car theme or plastic tiaras for a Princess theme, is also an affordable way to make things feel festive. For favors, gift bags filled with finds from your local 99 cent store will work just fine - kids are just happy to have something they didn't have before.
There's no need to spend a lot of cash on your kid's birthday party. With these money-saving tips, throwing the party in your own home is the way to go.
Save Money by Hosting Your Child's Birthday Party at Home
Amanda DeSeta & Michelle Sy
Founders, [http://www.TheSimpleFeast.com]
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