So, you want to plan a party without sacrificing your next few paychecks to pay it off? No problem. With a few strategic moves and conscious shopping, you can throw the bash of the year with some change left in your pocket.
First, decide on a theme and shop accordingly.
If you want, say, a pirate-themed party, hit up the local fabric shop. Black and white striped cloth or a deep blood-red color can be used for simple decoration: Use the fabric to cover furniture, protecting it from spills and also adding to the setting. Pick up a few colored light bulbs to enhance the mood, or use a light-colored fabric to drape over lamps.
Buy cheap where you can.
Supplies such as plates and cups can be bought at the dollar store. You can create simple decorations out of construction paper, or print pictures from the Internet. Who wouldn't love a picture of Captain Jack Sparrow hanging on the wall?
Create theme-inspired invitations. Throwing a toga party? Dye the paper with tea bags, and then roll them like scrolls. Another sleek trick: You can only allow people with invitations to the party. Allow them to bring one date, but that's it. This will cut back on the amount of booze and food you'll have to buy.
Suggest BYOB.
If you're on a really tight budget, suggest that your guests bring their own supply. If you do decide to buy alcohol, make some sort of punch - you can buy cheaper alcohol when it's mixed with a variety of juices. Throw in a few apple and orange slices for extra flavor, and the fruit will absorb the alcohol and make for a tasty treat.
Ask your roommates to pitch in.
By hosting the party together, you can split the cost. Another bonus: You'll have people assisting in the planning and decorating.
The one party item you shouldn't skimp on is food. If you're just serving snacks, buy in bulk. Also, keep an eye out for sales. Check the newspaper for coupons and sales that apply to your shopping list.
If you're serving more than just chips and dip, keep the menu simple. With the pirate theme, seafood is a given. Stock up on a variety of seafood, and remember to buy in bulk. If seafood is not your forte, one interesting meal is salmagundi. In 16th century England, it was really just a salad made from whatever was available. Also check online for chili and stew recipes. Most ingredients in these meals are cheap and/or replaceable. Add a bowl of salad and accompany each with dinner rolls and you're set.
For some background entertainment, play a theme-related movie, such as "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Hook" or even "The Goonies."
As guests enter, hand out blank name tags and have them go by a buccaneer name for the night. It might sound cheesy, but it could give you something to "yargh" about.
No comments:
Post a Comment