Moving into a new home is a joyful occasion, and it’s something worth celebrating. Throwing a housewarming party is a great way to introduce your loved ones to your new living space. It’s not unusual for unexpected expenses to arise during the move. That is why it’s common to be short on money after everything’s done.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t organize a fantastic social gathering. Look at our list of tips on how to throw a housewarming party on a budget and start planning immediately!
First of all, decide on your budget
One of the first steps in planning a budget-friendly party should be deciding exactly how much you want to spend. There are multiple things you should consider. Firstly, the cost will vary with the number of people you invite. You should also factor in all the food, drinks, and decorations. Finally, if you want additional entertainment for your party, you should also budget that in.
Some people feel obliged to go all out for their housewarming party, which can be costly. If you’re uncomfortable spending a fortune on a party, you don’t have to. Whatever your budget is, the most important thing is to stick to it. That way, your party will succeed without you breaking the bank.
Know your theme
Before buying any supplies for your housewarming party, pick out a theme for it. There are numerous benefits to doing so. Sticking to a theme will also help you stay within your budget. You will be focused on looking for specific items and won’t spend money on unnecessary things.
We all know that party planning can be pretty stressful. That is especially true when you’re looking to throw a housewarming party on a budget. Besides being budget-friendly, choosing a theme will narrow your options and simplify the process.
You can try out different ideas, like matching the color scheme of your walls. Also, all the items you get will be coherent with each other, which will make your party look amazing.
Go for budget decor
The main thing your guests want to check out at your housewarming gathering is your new home. One of the most exciting things about moving houses is being able to decorate to your taste and make the space truly yours. That makes your new home the absolute star of the party.
However, that is not to say that additional decorations aren’t welcome. They’re always fun to have. You just don’t have to spend a fortune on them.
Instead of visiting specialty party shops, try hitting up dollar stores in your area. You’ll be surprised by how many cheap yet excellent decoration options exist.
Also, if you’re up for getting in touch with your creative side, you can try and DIY the decorations. Get some supplies like cardboard, glue, strings, etc., and let your imagination do the rest.
Pick a good date
Scheduling your housewarming party right after you move is generally not a good idea. Moving can often be stressful: it’s not unusual to encounter complications or deal with things in a rush. Also, you will likely have to spend some extra dollars during the move, so fun money could be tight.
Postponing your party until you settle into your new home is a great alternative. That will give you time to get your finances in order and recover from the stress of the move.
Also, you can use this extra month or two to plan everything out. Finding the best deals for decorations or food can take a minute, and this way, you’ll have time to research.
Cut down the guest list
A huge guest list might work against your favor if you’re trying to throw a housewarming party on a budget. Sure, the whole point of this party is to share the joy of your new home with people. Still, hosting a large crowd requires extra funds for food and drinks. If that’s not something you can afford, consider reconsidering whom you invite.
Your closest friends and family should cut. After all, your party wouldn’t be the same without them. As for everyone else, like acquaintances and colleagues, there are different factors to consider. Inviting those who would fit in with the crowd is a good idea.
Also, consider if you have any obligations towards people who invited you to their housewarming parties. While you don’t have to invite them, returning the favor is nice.
Consider various food options
Every great party has great food. Making a little feast for your housewarming party is a perfect for testing your new kitchen. However, with the cost of living rising everywhere, feeding a crowd can cost you quite a bit. Luckily, there are a few ways you can deal with that.
If you want to make a full-on meal for your guests, consider trying a new batch recipe, like a casserole. It generally costs less than making individual portions and is just as satiating. You can also go for finger foods and make an assortment of appetizers.
They don’t have to be fancy; mini sandwiches or pigs in blankets will work fine. Another great option is making your party into a potluck. This way, you’ll eliminate the cost of preparing food, and your guests will be happy to contribute.
Pick out the drinks wisely
Drinks usually take up a large chunk of every party’s budget. If you’re like the majority, you probably always worry that there won’t be enough variety and drinks. Because of this, it’s easy to overspend by buying a lot of stuff you don’t need.
In general, you can’t go wrong with wine and beer. Getting a few beer brands and mid-range wine should do the trick. Of course, the quantity depends on your number of guests. For the guests that don’t drink alcohol, consider getting a few different soft drinks or seltzers.
A good trick is to buy drinks you and the members of your household would usually consume anyway. That way, if there’s anything left over, it won’t go to waste or sit on the shelf for ages.
Save the paper and opt for digital invites
While deep in the digital era, some prefer sending old-fashioned invitations to events. They certainly have a specific charm and are lovely pieces of memorabilia. However, they can be expensive, especially if you decide to get them professionally printed.
An easy way to save a lot of money here is to skip these invitations and invite your guest through social media. Nowadays, almost everyone uses Facebook or other social networks, so that shouldn’t be an issue. Even if they don’t, they must have an e-mail or a phone.
This kind of invitation is just as valid, and nobody will think less of your party because of it, and it can save you a good chunk of money.
Final words
Even if it may seem challenging, throwing a housewarming party on a budget isn’t that hard. Yes. It requires additional planning and working around the budget, but it’s far from impossible. You just need to be realistic with your expectations and try to make the best of what you have. And remember, your guests are there to celebrate your new home, so they’ll love it no matter what.
