By: Cat Crawford   Has the holiday season got you scratching your head on how to plan the perfect party that won’t break the bank? Do you dream of hosting the party everyone still talks about well into the new year, on a budget? These tips will help you navigate your party planning while stil...

By: Cat Crawford

 Has the holiday season got you scratching your head on how to plan the perfect party that won’t break the bank? Do you dream of hosting the party everyone still talks about well into the new year, on a budget? These tips will help you navigate your party planning while still making sure there’s enough money to buy some extra presents.

New year eve countdown

1. Make a budget and stick to it.
Most budgeting mistakes start with the insatiable need to host the party of a lifetime. Outline a budget that allocates exactly how much money you’re willing to spend. Prioritize what you need and get the most important things first! Your guests won’t remember the $20 glass decorations on your shelf, but they will remember the delicious homemade appetizers you greet them with.

2. Pick a theme and stick to that, too.
Whether your party is winter wonderland-themed or ugly Christmas sweater-themed, sticking to a theme will help you zone in on the necessities. Theme your décor, food, drinks, and party games around one cohesive theme to really make your party stand out from the rest.

3. When your guests ask, “What can I bring?” Say “Anything!” (potluck is your luck!)
Your guests probably have a signature dish or family recipe they would be proud to whip up and bring to your party. Cut down on stress (and your budget!) by having everyone bring an appetizer or a tray of their favorite holiday treats. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the variety of choices you’ll have on your hands!

4. Get your guests in the Holiday Spirit by having them… literally bring their favorite spirits.
If you want to handle the night’s menu, send out a BYOB notice with your invites so that your guests bring a bottle of their favorite wine or liqueur to your party. There will be plenty for everyone to share and have a taste of everyone’s picks!

5. Deco-ration your money on one-time-use décor and make it yourself instead.
Don’t go holiday crazy and try to deck your halls with boughs of fake Target holly, but do accentuate the most prominent parts of your home instead. If your home has a fireplace, make it the centerpiece of the room by surrounding it in lush evergreen-ery or handmade paper snowflakes. Create the open and cozy atmosphere you want your guests to experience by utilizing your very surroundings!

6. Entertain with the right atmosphere.
Your guests might enjoy a party game or two, and they might enjoy making their own hot chocolate at a hot chocolate bar or icing their own gingerbread houses at a gingerbread decorating station, but what they’ll enjoy the most during these activities is even better company. Your job as a host is to create an environment your guests will enjoy no matter what they’re doing. That’s what they’ll remember the most.