subject: Penny-pinching Tips For Frugal Party Planners [print this page] Children have a right to ask for a themed party on their birthday, but you don't really have to go all out and pay for a party package with a licensed brand. Sure, a Spongebob or Disney Princess party offers kicks you can't find in generic themes, but you have to consider the costs of slapping a familiar cartoon character's face on utensils, backdrops, piatas, and party hats. Besides, children are usually lenient with the details, so long as you pull off a party with distractions and attractions, enough to keep guests and celebrator occupied for the entire afternoon. No one would fault you for penny-pinching either, so long as your measures consider your guests' short attention spans and their parents' expectations.
Budget-friendly Expenses Pay off
The budget is the first thing that comes to mind, at least for the conscientious adult with monthly payables to cover for. Birthday parties are bittersweet affairs; you only get to celebrate yours once in a year, so you might as well splurge. If you can't cut too much slack, then you'll have to compromise. Birthday parties don't really have to be that extravagant, and you'll find affordable or homemade substitutes to items you can buy at the store. Halve your expenses by doing some of the decorations on your own, or with a team of eager children. Let them participate and paint a mural on cloth for the venue backdrop; a creative output stands out when more people lend a hand in its completion.
Compromise on Utensils and Refreshments
Meals, utensils, and refreshments are essential parts of a children's birthday party, since these keep everyone at bay for an hour or two. Store-bought or custom supplies are recommended if you're rushing the arrangement, otherwise there are a few items you can whip up hours or the night before the event. Cakes are costly if you have it preordered at a local shop, but you can create one on your own with enough patience and staple items bought at a grocery. There are plenty of parenting websites which offer advice and ideas on themed cakes, with step-by-step instructions on how to make them. Maximize online or printed resources and come up with dishes on your own efforts; your child may not know the difference.
There's always Room for Substitutes
Most people consider utensils and party favors as non-negotiable, but the least you can do is compromise with the assortments to emulate a theme. It's really all about colors and design, not on the brand names. If your child loves a particular cartoon character like Dora or Ben 10, note the color schemes of the party theme and incorporate these into your substitutes. You can order plates and cups with licensed designs; you can wing it when it comes to the rest of the party items.
Mind the Details on the Invites
Your invites have to indicate the theme of the party and the meals you're serving. If you only intend to serve cakes, sweets, and ice cream, your invite should indicate a dessert party or something similar. Your guests will likely arrive with parents or guardians in tow, and you don't want them to stand around with their arms folded in disappointment for the next few hours. You can find out more in this site if you're still considering themes for your child's birthday party. Consider affordable substitutes if you think you can pull it off and if you're sure your child won't throw a crying fit.
