How to Plan a First Birthday Party on a Budget

Throwing a first birthday party doesn’t have to make you broke. From invitations to favors, there are ways you can cut back on the expenses. Here are some tips on how to plan a first birthday party on a budget.

Budget

Before choosing a menu or a theme, you need to decide on a budget. Choose the amount you can easily afford. Make sure you stick to it.

Theme

Choose something simple, like a story character, animal or a particular color. Theme will add a personal touch to the first birthday party and it will also tie the decor together.

Guest list

Number of guests depends on your budget. Do you want a small party? Family only? Close friends? Or do you want to also invite your coworkers and friends from daycare and playgroups? Remember, the more people you have, the more space, food and drinks you’ll need.

Location

If you want to save money, throw the first birthday party at your home. If you don’t want to host a party at your home, it’s a great option to book a restaurant or a kids play space. It can cost a bit more, but you won’t have to clean after the party. Depending on a weather, you should also think about throwing a party at a local park. Make sure to check do you need to obtain a permit to use the location.

Invitations

Printable invitations are a great option if you’re planning a party on a budget and trying to save some money. You can also create the electronic invites online. If some of your guests aren’t tech savvy, you can send them a text message or call them.

Food

Instead of ordering from caterers, cook. Even if you’re not good at cooking, fruit, crackers, cheese and sandwiches shouldn’t be a problem to make. For babies, serve age-appropriate food (dry cereal, soft fruit, smoothies, steamed veggies, yogurt). For adults, have meat and cheese platters, veggies, sandwiches and dip. Ask family and friends to help with the dessert bar.

Decorations

Shop decorations from the dollar store. Purchase items that you can reuse. A lot of decoration essentials can be found there, like paper plates, paper cups, cupcake wrappers and favor bags.

Party games

Choose games that require only pen and paper (coloring station, crafts table, board games).

Favors

Homemade cookies or small chocolates are the perfect favors for a first birthday party on a budget. Pack them in favor bags from the dollar store and add a cute favor tag.

What are your thoughts on how to plan a first birthday party on a budget?

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