Party Planning: 23 Ways to Save

After the first few weeks of party-prep research, reality sets in: You recognize that a budget must be made. And of course, there's also that other big realization: That no budget will ever seem big enough. Just remember, everything is a compromise -- but it's not as daunting as it seems. Whether you're celebrating a baby shower or a birthday remember it's only one day, and with careful planning it's bound to be a success. First, set your top three priorities and decide what you can live without. Then you can begin to trim. So buckle down and create a budget -- and use our top tips to penny-pinch with style.

PLAN AHEAD
1. Time Is Money
The most important money-saving issue is time. And the less time you have, the more likely you are to make rash decisions and thus compromise your finances. Give yourself enough time to shop around for the best vendor prices.

GUEST LIST
2. Cut Your Guest List
It's the dreaded dirty deed, but it must be done: Your guest list is the first thing to trim. Never assume a certain percentage of invitees won't attend. Remember, cutting just 10 guests at $50 a head saves you $500.

Three things to keep in mind:
1) More expensive does not necessarily mean better. 2) Everything is negotiable –- don't be afraid to ask. 3) Technology is your friend! Use the Internet to do preliminary research and shop around for the best prices.
3. No Adults Allowed
Planning a child's birthday or Bar/Bat mitzvah? Opt for a Kids-Only party. Family members can double as guests and chaperones.

INVITATIONS & STATIONERY
4. Engraving Savings
For a fancy fete, instead of having invitations engraved use thermography, a less-expensive process that produces similar results.

5. Minimize the Mailing
Skip the envelope for the reply card by using a reply postcard, or simply have guests reply on their own stationery. Better yet, ask guests to email their RSVPs.

6. E-vite 'Em
If you're having a relatively casual party, save some dough and some trees by e-mailing invites. Your guests will love the ease of point and click RSVPing.

7. Cut the Customization
If you're going to a professional graphic designer, keep in mind that invitation design fees can add up, so keep your concept simple to cut back on costs. Though it won't have the same professional quality, you can opt to have a friend or family member do the design work and then have the invitations printed by a local printer.

FOOD & DRINK
8. Kitchen Commitment
Choose a location with a kitchen, as booking an inexpensive outdoor space that requires tents and kitchen equipment rentals can be pricier in the long run.

9. Hold the Hard Liquor
If you're having alcohol, set up your bar to serve only house beer, wine, and soft drinks. Most guests won't notice what's not there.

10. Trim the Menu
Cut one item from the menu. Replace an fancy oyster appetizer with a classic consommé, and you could save more than $3 per person (times 100 guests equals $300)!

11. Early Bird Special
Consider a brunch or late afternoon affair. You'll not only save money on food and labor, but people also drink less early in the day.

13. Don't Serve Dessert
Many caterers include dessert on the menu; let yours know you want to serve only your cake for dessert and you may get a discount.

FLOWERS & DÉCOR
14. Find Seasonal Flowers
If you want to decorate with flowers, choose what colors you want, then find blooms that are in season and fit your palette. They'll be much less expensive than flowers that have to be shipped from warmer climes.

15. Plant for Rent
Borrow or rent plants from your local florist instead of splurging on costly cut centerpieces. If you decide to buy potted plants, give them to special guests or as thank-yous to people who helped you with the party planning at the end of the event.

16. Dismiss the Details
Details count, but don't let them kill your passion for partying. Guests will notice the thoughtful touches you choose to include, but they won't miss ribbons tied around guest soaps in the bathroom.

MUSIC
17. One-Man Band
Find a DJ who is willing to work alone, and leave the emcee duties to a family member or friend.

18. Minimize Musicians
If you have your heart set on a band, ask if you can eliminate a player or two. For example, cutting a guitar player from a swing band can save over $400.

19. Make Your Own Music
Create a party play list on your iPod or burn CDs of your favorite songs, play it over your venue's sound system, and voila! Instant party.

PHOTO & VIDEO
20. Negotiate the Negatives
Forgo pricey print packages offered by the photographer. Instead, ask if you can buy the negatives. While you will have to compromise the skilled eye of your photographer when it comes to having prints made, this may save money down the road.

21. An Education in Photography
Shop the market. Compare photographers' hourly fees and package deals to see which is the most cost effective for you.

22. No Frills Video
Ask if your videographer will do a scaled-back package for less money, and eliminate special effects or extra editing.

GET HELP
23. Consultants Cut Costs
If you're planning an elaborate party, hire an event planner. You will undoubtedly recoup his or her fee with the sound advice he or she can provide about getting more or better service for your money.

 

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