Hosting a Family Get-Together on a Budget

Are you hosting your parents, grandparents, cousins, uncles and aunties this weekend? Do such gatherings leave you drained financially? Indeed, a family get together happens once in a while. Hence, we rarely think of ways to make such meetings cost-effective and enjoyable at the same time. We assume that a hilarious uncle or a witty nephew on a Sunday afternoon full of fun justifies the spending. But, did you know that you can plan for a memorable get together without breaking your bank? Yes, here are tips for doing just that: –

Work With a Theme

When planning a party for your extended family, go with a theme for each party. This way, you can divide the costs for various items to the attendants. For example, if you are running a sports theme, then get separate family reunion shirts for each team. Each family member is to collect their wear in a good time. Plus, you’ll get to keep these gears for the next sports family get-together. Other affordable themes for a family gathering include minimalist backyard camping or a cultural idea.

Confirm Who’s Coming

Yes. We all have those family members who never show up even after promising to be there for the tenth time. It can be a wasteful get together when you have prepared for say, twenty guests, then only seven of them show up. Thus, if you are expecting a large group, send out online invites to all of them. It’s a cheap way to minimize expenses. Evite and Facebook have great tools for sending online invites.

Use an Affordable Meal Plan

Browse for quick recipes that are tasty and affordable to make. For example, prepare a variety of meals in small quantities. Or, set up a baked potato bar with a variety of toppings. With baked potatoes, you can make them in advance, and then warm them as guests gather to eat. Next, opt for burgers, hotdogs, and meat pies. Serve your BBQ with a shared dessert or soft drink. Note, you can have a meal plan that makes use of food that is in season. It is a quick way to get cheaper groceries for your family get-together.

Go Simple on Decorations

Do you have a themed backyard? Then, use it for the family party. That way, you’ll only need minimal decorations for your outdoor décor. Better still, go for budget-friendly decorations. You can get paper lanterns, bonfire accessories, and water theme items which are very affordable. Are you a creative person? Then buy some supplies and make some crafts for the party. Or, ask your kids to make the decorations as they bond with their friends.

Final Note –Have Fun

Have fun. Remember, it is a family get together and not a business meeting. Hence, plan to have fun as you remain cheap. Have a fire pit dinner as you catch up on each other’s lives. Plan fun games and activities that everyone can join.  Start your get together early with some of the guests helping with the logistics. Carpool on your way back home. Indeed, if you focus on having fun, then you’ll realize that not your guest don’t expect a red carpet treatment. They value the family time more, and that’s all that matters.