The economic recession has stripped everything from our wallets to our morale. But just because we may have to make some budget cutbacks, doesn’t mean we have to cutback on entertaining with style! So we’ve put together a few ideas that should keep both your guests and your wallet in good spirits.
1. Generation Do-It-Yourself
A lot of things can be done with just a bit of creativity and time. Instead of designing and ordering specialty invitations, place cards or thank you cards, create your own! Use any basic computer program (Publisher or Word on a PC or Photoshop on a Mac) to create unique and personalized notes to your guests. For example, print photos of the happy couple on thicker paper stock for save the dates. For those of you without much time or creative energy, E-vite is a quick and easy way to send invitations to your entire guestbook.
2. Color Me Glamorous
Having a theme or color can really help bring the whole together while still being economical. Pick a color that best reflects the theme of your party. Then that color that can be carried throughout the invites, table linens, candy-covered almonds and finally to the thank you notes and favors. But be wary of becoming too “matchy-matchy” as you don’t want to overdo it. A sheer organza table linen is a great and subtle way to add a touch of color to the table and the overall look of the room.
3. Light It Up
If lighting is too costly then use as much candle light as possible as they get the job done while creating a soft and romantic ambiance. Add as many votives per table as possible as well as floor-standing candleabras. Decorating the votives with a ribbon, pasting stones or plastic jewels can really add some excitement.
4. Friends
The biggest problem with hosting is the guest list. We end up inviting more people than we need to because of unnecessary obligations. Keep the guest list down by inviting only well-wishers, family, good friends and people relevant to your party. For example, if you’re throwing a bridal shower for your best friend, limit it to her friends only. Don’t feel guilty if you can’t invite your entire friends circle because its her day, not yours. For those of guest who make it on the final list, make use of their talents! Ask them to take charge of one area each whether its food, decorating, or invitations. It will make them feel more involved and take some stress off of you!
Excellent suggestions!! I am definitely going to try all of these at my next party!