Summer is in full swing with vacations, weddings and parties. If you’re a parent, the back-to-school season is also looming over your head. All of this means one thing: you’re spending more money.
In our Party on a Budget series, we will provide budget-friendly alternatives to these costly events. First up? Children’s birthday parties! On average, parents spend at least $300 on birthday parties for their kids. Here’s how cost-conscious parents can spend less:
Let them eat (homemade) cake
Food is one of the most expensive parts of any birthday party. Host your party after lunchtime and cut to everyone’s favorite part — the cake! To save even more, make it a homemade cake. You don’t have to be a professional baker or cake designer to bake your child’s birthday cake. Pinterest is a great place to find easy-to-make recipes. At DollarDays, we have over 100 cake and cupcake pans to help you create beautiful cakes in your own kitchen.
DIY it up
Design your own invitations and thank-you notes. If you don’t have Photoshop, use Canva — a free, web-based design program. Not the creative type? Turn to Etsy for inexpensive designs you can print on glossy cardstock.
In lieu of party favors, set up a craft station at the party. This serves as entertainment for kids and gives them the opportunity to make their own party favors, which will outlast any candy or game you could send home with them.
Buy in bulk
Buying decorations, tableware and other party supplies in bulk stretches every dollar of your budget. If you opt to send guests home with party favors, save by purchasing them from a wholesaler. We have a large selection of party supplies for kids (and adults) of all ages.
Make it a family affair
You don’t have to invite the entire neighborhood. Inviting family and your child’s best friends is enough to make the the birthday celebrant’s day special. Keeping the party small cuts back on costs and years from now, you won’t have to wonder who’s the stranger in your kid’s birthday pictures.
Check out our birthday party board on Pinterest here for decorations, ideas and DIY tutorials!