It’s your little one’s special day, so you’re obviously going to want to throw them the best birthday bash you possibly can, but hosting a super-fun children’s party does not have to mean splashing the cash. If you’re on a budget, then follow these simple tips to throw a simple but special kids party without breaking the bank.
1. Don’t Go Overboard
An easy way to spend outside your budget is buying unnecessary party accessories that just aren’t needed. Keep things simple – the kids won’t notice either way if you don’t splash out on a bubble machine or fancy specially-made cake. Try to keep it traditional – party games like pass-the-parcel and home-made food are cheap but are guaranteed to please even the fussiest kiddies.
2. Know Your Numbers
A common mistake to make when trying to throw a party on a budget is over-estimating the number of guests. Try to know exactly how many are attending so you can organise food, prizes and favours for just the right number of children with maybe one or two spares just in case. Buying too much food will just lead to waste and unnecessary spending and will ruin your diet when it all gets left over and you have to polish it off.
3. Prepare!
The earlier you start to plan the party, the easier and the cheaper it will be to organise. The more time you have to prepare, the more time you will have to do your research, find some good bargains and deals. The early bird saves the pennies, so don’t be a last-minute mummy, or you could end up paying a lot more than you need to.
4. Bargain Hunt
Don’t be afraid to venture into one dollar shops to find some super-cheap steals. Streamers, balloons and other decorations can be found in most budget shops much cheaper than regular supermarkets and craft stores and there is little difference in quality – like a gang of sugar-fuelled 7 year-olds would ever notice the difference! There are loads of deals to be had on the internet too so get hunting!
5. Get Cookin’!
Preparing your own party food is the healthiest, tastiest and most budget-friendly way to cater your party and buying pre-pared snacks and food is one of the biggest expenses you face when throwing a party. Research easy and tasty recipes online and get stuck in – don’t forget to let your little one give you a helping hand.
6. Time Is Money!
Think carefully about the duration of the party. This does depend on the age of the children – a party for a group of ten year olds is going to last longer than one for three year olds as the kids themselves will last longer! Little kids tire easily so keep it short and sweet for under fives. No child needs a party from 9am until 5pm and over-estimating the duration of a party can cost you lots of money in food and drink and entertainment and children tend to bore very easily. Be wise and keep it as short as possible.
7. E-Mail Your Invites!
In this day and age, the majority of people have email access and so spending money on fancy invitations is a waste, especially when they will just end up in the bin! An electronic invitation can be just as impressive, is instant and can’t get lost – perfect!
8. Use The Web!
The internet is your friend when it comes to saving money so don’t neglect it. Cheap deals, coupon websites and Ebay – there are bargains to be had if you take the time to research them! There are also lots of printable decorations that you can find online, as well as game ideas and colouring-in – so get clicking and saving!
9. Dabble In DIY!
Doing things yourself will save you money – it’s a fact! So don’t be afraid to roll your sleeves up and get stuck in. One of the biggest expenses of a party is the decorations and all the little touches that actually can be made for a fraction of the shop-bought price!
10. Have Fun!
The final tip for a budget birthday party is have fun with it! Don’t let your budget hold you back, remember that the ultimate goal is for your little one to have a super-fun time with their friends and family and that costs nothing at all.
