Summer Parties? See how to save money on catering….
Well, my oldest just graduated from high school and we are all floating on happiness for the opportunities he has ahead of him. In planning for his graduation party, I had a couple things that I really hoped to do to: Keep in the budget and not have a list a mile long with things to do and make. So here are a few easy tips and ideas I have for you that could make your summer party delicious and budget friendly.
1. Plan a menu where you can make and buy some items youself, but also welcome a restaurant or two for the main meal.
For example, the first part of our party is for aunts, uncles, grandparents, even some teachers who will be stopping in. I thought some of my favorite wraps from Midtown Cafe would make our guests just as happy as me. The great thing, they cater to smaller parties as well as large ones. Everything here is fresh and delicious!
Later in the evening is when the kids are going to want to chow down and though, pizzas was the first thing we thought of, I recently learned that LaCarreta in Hooksett offers catering. WOW! the amount of food you get for your money is crazy good! Theresa is the main girl to get in contact there and she can come up with an amazing assortment of great food.
So, these two places will help me out tremendously and keep me in my budget. I’ll shop for chips, sodas, make my own macaroni salad (quick and simple), have a fruit salad in a watermelon a make a couple batches of brownies and a couple chocolate pudding pies and I’m pretty much done other than cake and ice cream which I have to get at Brock’s favorite diner, Red Arrow Diner.
2. Decorate with help from the dollar store.
All our table cloths, plates, signs and decorations were bought at the Dollar Store. I walked it with the amount of cash I had for my budget and bought whatever I wanted for that amount.
3. Let others help
If someone asks if they can bring something, let them and add that check mark to your list!
My son will be helping by doing the running around to get the platters while the kids and I are setting up the yard.
4. Enjoy the day!
Most importantly, have fun, take lots of photos, enjoy your guests and the memories.