Photo from @haleyhuckins06

The first thing you’re going to want to do is decide exactly how much you want to and can afford to spend for the party. If you’re a really organized planner, you could even consider creating a detailed budget sheet that outlines a rough idea of how much you plan to spend on food, cake, entertainment, activities, party favors, and gifts. Whether you do that or just have a ballpark number you want to spend, try to stick to it and don’t stress out over what everyone else is doing and all the over the top parties you see on Pinterest and Instagram.

Here’s 9 other tips to throw a budget-friendly party:

1. Find an affordable venue or plan to use your home
2. Avoid over-inviting guests
3. Stick to basic cakes or desserts
4. Avoid parties around meal times
5. Send digital invitations
6. Use affordable party printables
7. Print your printables at places such as Staples or Walgreens
8. Try shopping at the dollar store
9. Plan on entertainment being your biggest expense

The most important thing is that your child is going to love the party (big or small!) so it’s not worth putting a big weight on your shoulders to plan and host a Pinterest-worthy party, if that’s not attainable right now!