With a little creativity and planning, you can plan a fabulous sweet 16 birthday party.
Turning 16 is a special time for young girls. It marks their transition from young girl to young lady. This "coming of age" event is often celebrated with a sweet 16 birthday bash. Sweet 16 parties can be a grand affair with hundreds of attendees or a small party with just a dozen guests. The good news is it is completely possible to plan a fabulous sweet 16 birthday party on a budget. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Create a budget. Take a realistic look at what you can afford to spend on the party. Create a budget that will not jeopardize your other financial obligations or cause you particular stress. Setting a budget will help you stay on track with what you are spending and ensure you are stay on track.
2. Make a list of items that you need for the party. These items should include everything you cannot do without. These items may include a dress for the birthday girl, food, cake and decorations.
3. Make another list to include everything you would like to have at the party. These items should be optional. For example, hiring a DJ may be something you would like to be able to do, but if your budget will not allow you to hire a professional disc jockey, you may have to settle for prerecorded music.
4. Select a venue. In most cases, the venue consumes a large chunk of the budget. If the party can be accommodated at a home, you will cut the expense of a party venue. You should also consider contacting local recreations centers and halls. These locations are often less expensive than hotel and club rentals.
5. Make a decision about catering. You may find that preparing the food on your own will save a great deal of money. If you are not skilled in the kitchen, ask friends or relatives if they would be able to contribute dishes. You may also consider prepared dishes and appetizers that can be purchased at a wholesale grocery outlet. You may be able to purchase large vegetable, fruit and sandwich trays for your guests. If catering is something you cannot do without, take the time to shop around. When contacting caterers, be sure to tell them up front what your budget is. Consider offering the party guests finger foods instead of a full meal.
6. Be creative with decorations. Shop at your local discount store and online for decorations. The Oriental Trading Company (see Resource section) has affordable Sweet 16 birthday decorations and party favors.
7. Invite guests online. Save on postage and paper invitations by inviting guests online. Evite has many invitation options. If you have a Facebook account, consider creating an event on Facebook and inviting guests through the social medial platform.
8. Review your budget to determine if you will have enough to hire a DJ. If hiring a DJ will take you over budget, consider contacting a DJ and inquire about purchasing pre-recorded mixes that can be played on a CD player or iPod. You may have to supply the DJ with a song list.
9. Track your expenses. Whenever you make a purchase, be sure to log the expense and deduct from your available party funds. The key to staying on track with your budget is to record all money spent.
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