Video:How to Throw a Kid's Party on a Budget
with Chris DavisYou can throw a kid's party on a tight budget as long as you plan ahead. Watch this how-to video from About.com to learn some easy tips and tricks for a great kid's party on a budget.See Transcript
Transcript:How to Throw a Kid's Party on a Budget
Hi I'm Chris Davis for About.com. Kids parties can be a lot of fun and unfortunately expensive. If you are looking to save a little cash for your next party try these tips.
Stretch Your Budget with Party Food
You can start making cuts just by changing the time of day you host your party. If you don't want to plan a full meal, which costs more to prepare, then start the party at 10 a.m. or 2 p.m. and just provide snacks, cake and ice cream.
Keep your menu simple. Crackers and cheese, Granola mix, fruits and vegetables all make healthy snacks that are tasty and filling. Buy your food in bulk and do the cutting and separating yourself to keep additional costs down.
Save Money on the Party's Cake
Consider baking your own cake. Professionally made cakes are expensive, even cakes made at a box store bakery will cost 6 to 7 times more than making one yourself. Besides, baking a homemade cake allows you to decorate it anyway you would like and adds a touch of personalization to the party.
If you don't want to use your regular dinner ware, choose reusable plates, cups, and plastic ware. You can purchase very inexpensive reusable plastic wear at discount stores or large retail stores that are clearing out off season products. The up front cost might be a little expensive but when you factor in how often you can use the plastic dinnerware your savings will soon add up.
Creative Party Favors on a Budget
Be creative with your gift presentation. Instead of traditional wrapping paper, make your own. Try Brown craft paper and paint or wrap a gift in newspaper. Also save gift bags you receive and reuse them. Use paper lunch bags as party favors. Have your party goers decorate bags during the party then fill them with some bulk candy, stickers, and inexpensive trinkets. Try to invite a reasonable number of guests. By keeping the number down you cut costs on food, crafts and party favors.
To learn more check us out on the web at About.com. Thanks for watching.