Family Finance Help

Although it may seem unthinkable, there are plenty of ways to have a New Year’s eve bash that doesn’t completely destroy your piggy bank. In an economy crisis like we are in, people are looking for low cost alternatives and strategies to buy for cheap anything that they would need to get the party started. Here are a few tips for saving cash and yet still having the right “tools” for a fantastic party:

Make your party a “no alcohol” zone. You will save a mint by simply cutting out the alcohol. Not only will you benefit from the financial saving, but your guests could have a safer, more positive New Year celebration experience. Who says you need booze to have a good time? Instead of the hard stuff, consider fruity drink mixes that you can use with seltzer that you can buy for cheap.

Check local thrift stores for party supplies before going to a retailer. Many times, people have items left over after their affairs and simply donate them to make space. Their leftover party supplies can be a treasure that could save you lots of money.

Try a homemade approach to the party. Go back to basics and create your own party supplies like hats that can be made from old cereal boxes or greeting cards. Simply make a cone shape from the card or box, and then cover it with scrap decorative paper like wrapping paper or newspaper comics. Add some type of tie to keep it on, which could be strips of paper, yarn, or string.

Make it a pot luck affair! Have guests bring different foods so that you won’t have to come out of your pocket for all of the food. Get the “non-cooks” to bring the condiments, chips, and paper supplies. This will not only be lots of fun as everyone tries out different or new foods, but it will also eliminate the stress of having to please everyone by yourself.

Bring in the new year without breaking your holiday piggy bank. Use these tips and enjoy starting a new year with a few extra bucks in your bag! Now, that’s something to be really happy about.