Hosting a dinner party, brunch, or even a Friendsgiving can be a very daunting and expensive task. About a year ago I threw a thriving party and broke my bank way more than I intended to (thank you, Target). Having a budget and sticking to it are two completely different things. I truly love hosting event but keeping costs down was a huge struggle point for me. Honestly, there are just too many cute event ideas I want to implement. I did some research on how to keep up my hosting abilities without breaking the bank. In such here are a few ways to throw a party on a budget.

Think Display, Not Array

In the words of Geico, “You just saved 15% on decor by switching to food.” You do not need to have a variety of options for something to look put together or “grammable”. Indulge in a few finger foods and place them on individual plates. This will take up table space and also count as decor to take up that space. Try to get a few different colors or textures on the table, like cream cheese crackers and mini fruit kabobs. 

Food is your Focal Point

There is nothing better than coming to an event and seeing mountains of various foods. Set out all your goods on the table and have guests help themselves. They can mingle with each other buffet-style or get real close and pass dishes family-style.

PRO TIPS:

• Taco nights are an easy theme when cutting costs. Meat, cheese, lettuce, and shells are the basics. Ask your guests to bring their favorite toppings and then you will have a mix of options.
• Carbs are critical. Let your guests fill up on carb-heavy foods so they feel fuller faster. Pancakes, mac, and cheese, or chips and burgers are all fun options. Disclaimer: leave diets at the door!
• Brunch with eggs, waffles, and bacon with a “bottomless” mimosa package to get your boozy brunches fired up. These are all really inexpensive ingredients that can go a long way.

Elevate your E-vite

Go beyond a simple text message invite with an e-vite! A digital invitation from Paperless Post can really set the tone for your soiree. These are especially great because they require an RSVP. You create the card and the system will tell you to know if the invitation has been received and track RSVPs for you. As an organizer,
you really can’t ask for much else, plus they’re freakin’ cute.

Invest in Elevated Stemware

Boozy, or booze-free, the stemware is a highly critical aspect of any brunch or dinner. As a millennial myself, I’m a sucker for a cute drink. It doesn’t matter what you put inside, as long as the experience itself is enjoyable, I am all good. Nothing says bougie like a glass of bubbly, infused water pitchers, or a martini with an olive. Dress up the drink ware, and go cheaper on the contents poured. This will save some money fo you but keep the high end experience for everyone else.

Create a playlist themed to the event, dress the part, and enjoy your gathering! Nothing brings people together more than food, drinks, and a well-dressed selfie for the gram. 

Check out my post on How To Throw the Best Party Every Time for more party-hosting tips!