Two-thirds of parents spend over a hundred dollars on their kids’ birthday parties, not including gifts. You may be wondering, is this really necessary?
Whether you’re hosting a birthday party for yourself or your kids, there are plenty of birthday themes that are unique and affordable. There’s no need to worry about spending in the triple digits.
Keep reading to learn how to throw birthday parties on a budget.
1. Set Your Birthday Planning Budget
You should answer some budget birthday questions before the planning begins:
- Where do you want the party to take place?
- How many people do you want to invite?
- What kind of dessert do you want?
- What other food and refreshment will be available?
- What kind of entertainment will be available?
- What kind of decorations do you want?
Create a budget for each of these categories, and then answer them. Want to save money on a venue? Host the party at your home. Entertainment can be as easy as board games and a deck of cards.
For something a little more immersive, buy an escape room board game.
2. Make Your Own Decorations
It may be tempting to run to the party store to buy party decorations. However, there’s nothing you can’t do on your own! YouTube and Pinterest are your best friends here.
This tip is especially great if the budget birthday is for your kids. It’ll help them get creative and feel involved. At the very least, you can print out decor from Pinterest.
3. Forget the Invitations
Another way to minimize cost? Don’t bother with mailing physical invitations. Instead, opt for e-invitations. Make sure to include an RSVP so you can get a headcount.
This is relevant for both kids’ parties and adult parties. To learn how to throw the best adult birthday party, click here.
No matter who the party is for, it helps to keep it small. It’ll also enable you to choose a smaller and less expensive venue.
4. Time It Wisely
Your budget birthday doesn’t have to be over the lunch or dinner hour. In fact, it’s better if it’s not. Pick an in-between time like 2 p.m. so guests don’t expect a full meal. Then, you can provide light fare like cheese and crackers.
Another way to cut down on costs is baking your own cake. Like decorations, this is something the kids can help with.
5. Types of Birthday Themes
Some birthday themes are easier and cheaper to pull off than others. For adults, let’s return to the escape room board game idea. Build your theme around whatever it is.
It might be something Roaring Twenties or a safari adventure. If the party is for kids, try one of these birthday themes:
- Superheroes
- Zoo animals
- Disney Princess
- Under the sea
- Sock hop/soda shop
- Trains
- Mermaids
- Cars and trucks
Party Planning Tips
Throwing birthday parties on a budget doesn’t have to be a hassle. There are plenty of party planning tips and cheap birthday themes to help you save money.
For more party-related content, keep reading our posts.
