Soon you’ll be making lots of resolutions and taking the appropriate steps to accomplish them. However, you might as well squeeze in one last celebration before you do.
It’s easy to throw a great bash without breaking the bank. You just need to be creative and know these 10 budget-friendly ways to throw a New Year’s Eve party:
1. Keep it small
Bigger isn’t always better. That’s especially true when it comes to your budget. A longer guest list will mean paying more for snacks, beverages and other essential items.
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Moreover, throwing a smaller shindig will allow you to spend more time with the people you truly want to be with. We often invite people we don’t like, however why not break this habit this year?
2. Make a plan and stick to it
Before you go shopping for all your party supplies, make a list of everything you need. When you get to the store, do your best to purchase only the items that are written down.
By avoiding all the impulse buys, you’ll be able to stay within your original budget. Moreover, you will need to make a list of the meals you want to cook.
3. Take advantage of the after-Christmas sales
You’ll most likely need some paper products like cups, plates and napkins for your party. Fortunately, the after-Christmas sales are in full swing right before New Year’s Eve.
You may be able to stock up on supplies for pennies per pack. Look for solid colors like silver and gold to give your party a glitzy vibe. There are also many cheap decorations that you can use for your party.
4. Shop at discount stores
If you don’t find what you’re looking for in the clearance aisle of your favorite big box store, try browsing through a couple of discount retailers. Dollar stores and overstock warehouses can provide deep markdowns on decorations like streamers, banners, lanterns and more. For just a few bucks, you can throw a party with flair.
5. Keep the menu simple
There’s no need to go overboard on your party’s menu. Skip the high-priced catering and opt to make the food yourself. Instead of preparing a four-course feast, offer a small selection of light appetizers and desserts. Guests will enjoy nibbling while they mingle and you won’t waste precious dollars on fancy dishes.
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6. Make it potluck
If you’re not the best cook in the world, you can always ask each guest to bring a little something. Most of your family and friends will probably offer to do it anyway.
One person can come with the ice or soft drinks. Another could bring a tray of chips and dip. Before you know it, you’ll have enough munchies to feed everyone!
7. Try sharing the hosting duties
Just because you want to host a party doesn’t mean you have to do it all on your own. Consider asking a friend to split the responsibilities with you. You can divide the expenses and share the credit when you end up throwing a superb soiree.
You can also cook together, if you don’t want to host a potluck party. Or, you can decorate your house together. There are many things you can do together ad have lots of fun.
8. Skip the paper invitations
By the time you factor in the cards, envelopes and stamps, the cost of paper invitations can start to add up. Avoid all the extra money and hassle by contacting potential guests online. A few quick emails or a Facebook post may be all it takes to get the gang together.
9. Be frugal about the flowers
Flowers are a nice finishing touch for any party. However, many floral arrangements can cost hundreds of dollars. You can get around the high prices by picking up a few dozen roses at your local supermarket. Place the flowers in a vase on your serving table to provide a pop of color without popping your budget.
10. Don’t worry about the entertainment
There’s no need to be too concerned about keeping your guests entertained. Don’t bother hiring a deejay or purchasing party games. The best parties focus on family, friends, food and fun.
Everyone will have a good time simply gathering around and watching the big ball drop on television or listening to a good music. Just relax and enjoy your party!
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Hosting a terrific New Year’s Eve bash doesn’t require a lot of money. By using the simple tricks on this list, you can throw a budget-friendly party that everyone will remember for years to come. With these easy tips, you can entertain guests without waking up to debt on New Year’s Day!
