Creative Ideas For Hosting A Party on A Budget

If you've ever been tasked with hosting a party, such as a bridal or baby shower, you know how stressful it can be. You want everything to be perfect, but if you're like most of us, you're probably on a budget.

I've hosted my fair share of parties over the years, and I've learned a few tricks along the way that have saved me a lot of money and made quite the impression.

Your party can still be impressive, but not cost a fortune.

There are ways to add a touch of elegance that will save you money, yet won't make your efforts appear cheap.

1. Rent what you can- don't buy!

You'd be surprised how inexpensive it can be to rent party items; such as tablecloths, cloth napkins, chargers, and even centerpieces. Shop around at the local Event Rental stores, and compare rental pricing to purchasing. For example, I recently threw a bridal shower, and to rent fabric tablecloths was going to cost $13 each. The cheapest I could find to buy was $20. Might not seem like a big deal, but multiply that times 4, and you'll save $28 by renting. It adds up. The cloth napkins and chargers I rented were only .60 each. Definitely worth the money, and it added a lot of class and elegance to the event.

2. Find household items to use as decor.

When we were decorating for this most recent bridal shower, we realized we didn't have napkin holders. Instead of rushing out to buy some, I looked around to see what I could find. I grabbed the artificial roses that I had leftover and wrapped them around the napkins to make my own napkin holders. They ended up being much prettier than any rings I would have purchased, and it saved me time and money.

3. Use small details.

Adding small touches, such as votives, rose petals, and soft music playing in the background, can really go a long way with little expense.

4. Make a gift basket.

Find a basket that you have lying around the house (or buy one), and purchase an inexpensive blanket to fill the bottom. Then, shop around for themed items to fill the basket. Add tissue paper to prop everything in place, dress it up with sprigs of baby's breath (or other flowers), and wrap it with a bow. *Key- The items inside do not have to be expensive, but the basket will be large and beautiful, and they will love it!

5. Cook, don't cater.

"But Kris- I don't cook," you say. You may not, but I bet someone coming to the party does. Even if they don't have a ton of experience catering, it's okay! Disposable catering pans and serving racks are easily available at your local party store or Wal-Mart, and they're easy to use. Take your normal recipe, multiply it, and BOOM! You're a caterer. This can save you hundreds- and if you know someone that's a great cook, you're in! You'll get raving reviews, and your friend will be a local hero!

Now that you're an expert on throwing parties, and you know you don't have to spend a fortune- go ahead, volunteer away! Your Guest of Honor's smile will be

your reward, and well worth the effort!

*Pictured is my beautiful friend, Makenna, at her bridal shower with the gift basket I created for her.

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