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Looking back, you probably wish you scooched having your kid or kiddos up a year. As we are all opening back up after the pandemic it is the perfect timing to have a sweet 16, but also save some money for the celebration. Instead of an afterthought, plan a party they will never forget. If you’re specifically wondering how to throw a budget-conscious sweet 16 party these days, try these tips on for size.
Reimagine Decorations
First, don’t feel tied to the same elaborate themes and decorations other parents have. Among several quick and easy event decorations are the humble balloons. Don’t deck out your whole home with gobs of them. Instead, buy up a couple—a foil numeral one and a numeral six give you a great centerpiece—and leave it at that.
For lighting, white globe or string lights are the perfect combo of stylish and inexpensive. Plus, if you’re celebrating outside so you can have your daughter or son’s friends over, both create a nice, warm environment.
Skip the Meal
Don’t fall prey to paying for full catering if you don’t need to. Depending on what time your party will be, serving appetizers and snacks is a perfectly logical option.
Now, if you don’t feel comfortable with your guests sharing food, it’s your prerogative to skip shared food altogether. Given the weird pandemic times, we’re in, inviting people to bring their own meals isn’t even rude. It’s all in the name of staying healthy, but you also save money too.
Send Online Invitations
Though many do this already, eschew physical invites and go for digital invites. These get the message across without relying on the cost of paper and postage. Facebook even has an event feature built for this.
Talk to Your Teen
A general tip when throwing a budget-conscious sweet 16 party—talk with your teen about what they want. Make clear you don’t have a boatload to spend but listen to them. If they really care about having a nice outfit for the party, don’t be afraid to splurge a little in this one area.
Otherwise, they may prefer a special dessert, a performer, or a nice present from you. Let their suggestions play a role in your budgeting decisions.
Sincerely,
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