Birthdays can be one of the days of the year that we let frugality go out the window! Of course, I’m all for going all out and having fun. We always spend a little extra to make it special on my kids’ birthdays. But, I also have found some ways to cut some corners that you know I’m going to share with you too!
- Like in most things in life, plan ahead. The longer you wait, the less time you have to get creative, use your resources, and see what shakes out. Budget. Splurge on the things that matter. Don’t on the things that just don’t to you! Don’t get caught up trying to impress your social media friends. I can start the comparison game when I see my friends’ Pinterest-worthy birthday parties while mine are not so glamorous. But the quote below has got me thinking more than once. I mean, I do like the people that come to my parties. But why do I care so much about what my “friends” think who aren’t even invited? My kids love their birthdays because of the people that surround them, not the presents or decor.
- Borrow party ideas/decor from others! In the past few years, I have piggybacked off of some friends and neighbors whose kids have birthday parties near my kids’. For instance, as I was looking into a theme for my one year old’s party, I ran across adorable stuff with the tag line “O’Fishally One.” I remembered that some friends from church had thrown an “O’Fishally Ours” adoption celebration. She let me have all of her left over decorations, party favors, some crafts for the kids, a banner, etc. After we were done with our party, I posted the decorations on my fave, Buy Nothing Group. Why not borrow or reuse decorations?! As long as it’s a different crowd, welcome ideas from others when they’re done with the birthday bash. And pass your decorations along to the next family as well.
- Plan crowd-friendly, prep-ahead meals. The last few years, I have ended up with a lot of taco bars, pulled pork, and barbecues for my kids’ parties. I love having themed food when it makes sense, but let’s be honest, my kids are only in it for the cake anyway. I’ve been able to keep my food budget down by scratch cooking food ahead of time. I also credit buying in bulk for ingredients like meat, rice, and produce to my budget savvy parties. The past few times I’ve made taco meat in bulk, I’ve bought a 5 lb package of lean ground beef at Sam’s club for around $20. I then fry it up, add my taco seasonings, and then throw in 3 or so cans of black beans. This not only adds flavor, but it also helps to stretch the meat for a fraction of the cost. And thanks to Stocktober, I’ve still got black beans for days!
- If family offers to help, I let them. Our family parties usually involve anywhere from 15-25 people. While feeding and entertaining this many people could get pricey, I have learned to accept help when offered. This does two things; first, I actually enjoy the party more. My mantra is the less I have to do and prep on partyday, the more I can enjoy the time with my favorite people. Second, allowing others to pitch in takes some of the financial strain off us. My dad sometimes offers to make the cake. His are usually more masterful than anything I could come up with anyway! My grandma will ask how she can help or what she can bring. By the time a few bring a few things like sides or cake, I’m really only supplying the main entree and a few other things for the party.
Just like my article on Budgeting for Maximum Happiness, budget for the things that mean the most to you. For us, we love food and family. Our kids don’t really get to ask for birthday gifts and we try to stress to them that their biggest blessing is the people that show up to their party. Not what they receive from those people. If you love throwing elaborate parties, budget and go for it! But if you’re looking for some ways to save money this year, reuse, plan ahead, buy in bulk, allow others to help, and don’t you dare fall prey to comparison. Go simple. Go old school. Save the planet. And enjoy what is meant to be a wonderfully, special day!
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