Hosting a Fourth of July Party for Only $10
If you invited Washington, Franklin or Jefferson to your Fourth of July party, would they be shocked at the money you spent? I'm pretty sure that at least "frugal" Franklin would be -- wasn't his secret writing identity "Poor Richard"? Today, its easy to get carried away when shopping for your party. Things like throw away paper plates and pretty table decorations make it so easy to spend more than you intended. I've got the solution for hosting a party on a dime. Instead of playing hostess become a community organizer. The key to success is involving guests in the prep work.
The View
The most important part of a Fourth of July party is the view. It is tradition to break out the fireworks and give guests a show. However, if you want to keep your party under $10 I'm afraid sparklers won't even be an option. Make your party portable and take it where there is a view. Make your party a tailgating party wherever your city is holding the fireworks for this year. Include directions to the party site in your invitations and be considerate of those who may not be familiar with the area--give clear directions.
The Food List
Make a list of easy-to-make, no-fuss foods your guests can bring to the party. Prepared hot dogs wrapped in foil singles, slices of watermelon, canned drinks are super expensive. Don't ask guests to spend more than you will--remember $10 is the budget, for everyone! Verify with your guests what they will bring and if you have a no-show, prepare to make up the difference.
Party Favors
You supply the party favors. Give mementos to each family instead of each individual. Small American flags, light up flag buttons or silly headbands are fun favors. If you have a patriotic music collection at home, create a copy of Fourth of July tunes and burn one for each guest.
Blankets and Chairs
Bring blankets for guests to use for seating. Nothing is more fun than viewing Fourth of July shows while lying on the grass or the bed of a truck! For guests who are less mobile, have some fold out chairs handy.
Homemade Invitations
Don't spend a ton of money on invitations. Raid your child's construction paper for everything you need to make flag-style invitations. Cut out rectangles of blue and red. Use white paper for stars. Cut, paste and glue your own creations, then hand deliver them.
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Published by Monica Bullock - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle
Monica is a small business owner and writer living on the Gulf Coast. After attending college at the University of South Alabama, Monica purchased her own cosmetics and skin care business. In a few years, sh... View profile
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