Parties are fun, but let's face it, can be expensive to host -- especially after going broke over the Christmas season. This year you can throw an amazing party without breaking the bank.
1. Create the Right Invites
You need to have an invitation that conveys the theme of your party. You want to be sure that your invite screams "This part is going to be a blast. It's a must attend." Don't be afraid to go over the top. New Year's is all about the glitz and the glam. Add a glitter backer or go with that foil embossing. And above all make sure your invites are the talk of the town.
Be sure to send your invites out at least two to three weeks before your event. And be sure to include a start and an end time on invitations so party goers can plan ahead. Lastly, clearly indicate the type of party (cocktail party, dinner party, etc.) you plan to host so friends know what to expect.
2. Fabulous Decor and Favors
When it comes to decor more is better, but no one wants to pay a hefty price for decorations. Ask friends to borrow some decor items. Be sure to check out Amazon, Ebay, local garage sales, thrift shops and even your local dollar store. It is amazing what a can of spray paint can do to those thrift store finds.
You can even glam up and personalize your glassware with a little chalkboard paint. Dip the stems in the paint and have each guest use chalkboard marker to write their name on the glass. Not only will it create a festive vibe, your guests will have a little take home gift from the moment they walk in the door.
3. Fun and Tasty Snacks
Be sure to start and end your party well before or after dinner time unless you plan on forking over the cash for a huge meal. Even if you aren't planning a meal you should at least have snacks or finger foods. Who doesn't love Everyone delicious food at a party?
On the flip side, who wants to spend their entire days prior to the party slaving away in the kitchen? Go with a finger food buffet! This will eliminate the need for mounds of plastic plates and cutlery. Depending on your them and decor this could be the time and place to use leftover wrapping paper to decorate the buffet table. Use it as a runner, serving tray liner or even the entire table cloth. Whatever suits your fancy. Be sure and try these easy menu ideas for your finger licking treats. Your guests will munching and mingling in no time.
- DIY Grilled Cheese Station: Set out your George Foreman-like indoor grill, a spray can of olive oil, sliced breads, slices of fontina cheese, slices of prosciutto or good-quality ham or turkey, and arugula. Let the guests do all the custom cooking. You could even thrown in some small shot glasses of tomato soup. These are sure to be a hit.
- A killer cheese plate served on a platter or cutting board complete with fruit, crackers and baguette slices.
- The ultimate veggie tray. Fill your tray with an assortment of peppers, broccoli, carrots, cucumbers, etc. Use a variety of dips to spice it up a bit. You could even try a cheese fondu. Don't like the "tray idea", try veggie skewers.
- Mini taco bites. Take the bowl shaped tortilla chips and fill with a little taco meat. Top with a little cheddar cheese, sour cream, shaded lettuce and a little bit of diced tomato.
- Traditional pigs in a blanket. Super easy to make and loved by everyone.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Let your imagination run wild. And be sure you don't forget dessert!
4. Custom Cocktails
You can save some dough and make a party memorable by creating a specialty cocktail. You can make it in large batches in advance (leaving out the soda until right before serving) and set up your self-serve bar with style. Include plenty of ice, glasses, cocktail napkins, backups of everything. Be sure to indicate the name of the drink and the ingredients or guests will be asking you all night. Below are a few custom drinks you could try (courtesy of
ifoodtv):
- Champagne Cooler: The bright, red hued drink reflects the prosperity the New Year has in store of you. A delightful blend of champagne with raspberry liqueur, it is the perfect New Year drink.
- Midnight Kiss: Welcome your New Year at 12 o’ clock with this Cointreau, Fever, and Champagne mixed drink. Shake Cointreau with strawberry and kiwi Fever and ice cubes well and strain into a champagne flute. Top off with champagne, garnish with strawberry, and serve!
5.Entertainment
Plan something memorable. Find something that will bring all the guests together. Sing a song, crack a piñata or play a game. If the pace of the party slows down just change your playlist to some dance music and get your groove on.
This always energizes a party and makes lets people get loose.
6. The Guest of Honor
You're the Guest of Honor, so glam it up -- wear something fun and festive to set the mood. Don't be afraid of the sequins and sexy. Be a showstopper.
7. Party Favors
You don't need to break the bank with party favors. Try something simple. Try simple party favors. Fill a big bowl with candies or personalized cookies that friends can grab as they walk out. After a few hours of drinking under their belt, your guests could always use a lat night treat.
You could also do a special mint station so everyone can be prepared for that Midnight Kiss.
8. Showing Gratitude
It's easy to get caught up in all the excitement and fun, but don't forget to raise your glass to toast and acknowledge your friends and family. They are around for you all year, not just one night so be sure they feel your appreciation and gratitude. Finally, always send a follow up thank you note or phone call. You can never go wrong with the words "Thank You".
The overall success of your party has little to do with the actual food or decor. It is all about being considerate of your guests. Don't stress out. You want to be joyful when you guests arrive at your door. Not angry because you just burnt the ham. Be sure to plan around YOUR budget and be thrifty. Personal touches mean the most and don't have to even cost you a dime. Lastly, have fun and put your personal touch on things. Guests will defiantly know you included them in something special.
