How to plan for an amazing event without the cost

Spring marks the beginning of the season of celebrations: engagement parties, baby showers, graduation ceremonies and reunions. If you’re planning an event, it can be stressful and sometimes not economically friendly. But don’t worry! We found ways to throw an amazing party on a budget.

Decor
Buying decorations can quickly make a dent in your wallet. However, you don’t have to buy items to make your venue look great. Instead, you can look into DIY decorations that fit your party theme. For example, you can create your own centerpieces by placing wildflowers in decorative pots or simple mason jars. Or you can buy a strand of lights or make your own garland to visually enhance the venue.  To get more ideas, explore Pinterest, which is a great DIY resource.

Music
Bands and DJs are fun, but can often be expensive. Instead, be your own DJ and create your own playlist on your phone or computer. Don’t like your music options? Create a free account with Spotify, and explore their premade playlists, or make your own.

Invitations
There are so many options online available for ordering inexpensive invitations. Many allow you to easily design your own by uploading pictures and text. Some of our favorite online options are Shutterfly and Vistaprint.

Etsy is also a great resource if you want your invitations to be created by a graphic designer, but for a lesser price.

Food
If you can’t hire a caterer, the next best option is to make your own food. However, cooking for a large party may seem daunting. A solution is what’s called semi-homemade cooking: buy some items, and cook others. Are you really great at baking? Then bake all of your best goodies, and buy the main course. Another great way to mix and match homemade and store bought food is through a buffet.

Activities
A photo booth is often a desired party activity. However, hiring a photographer can become very expensive. Instead, have your guests be their own photographers and work together to record the event.

First, square off a section of your venue to be the designated “photo booth”. Have a decorative backdrop, and lay out fun props such as hats or fake mustaches. Create a sign that encourage guests to take pictures with their phones, and record the event by having your own hashtag such as #SmithWedding. That way when you look on a social media platform and search the hashtag, you will find a collection of photos from your event.

We hope our party planning budget tips are helpful, and you have a great event! If you’re interested in getting coverage for your event, go to our Event Insurance blog post to learn what our agency can offer.