Throw a fabulous New Year’s Eve party blow out for same cost you might have paid 13 years ago.
If you want to leave your old budget back in 2012 and have a fresh start in 2013, don’t blow it first thing on an expensive New Year’s Eve bash. Instead, party like a millionaire even if you are still wearing the 90s grunge look.
Recycle Christmas Decorations
Most Christmas or Chanukah decorations that are in silver or gold will work well for a New Year’s Eve bash. Work with the decorations that you already have, such as placing silver ball ornaments in glass hurricane lamps for table decorations. If you don’t have enough silver and gold items, hit the Christmas clearance section of your local store for after Christmas sales. You’ll pick up a bunch of items for up to 90 percent off of their original prices. Now that is frugal.
Get Discounts on Drinks
There are a few ways to save on drinks for your New Year’s Eve party. You can purchase drinks, alcohol included, at a discount warehouse store, such as Sam’s Club or Costco. You can also check with your local liquor store to see if they will offer you a bulk discount on your purchases.
Save on the Cost of Food
Keep the food budget low by hosting a pot luck in which everyone brings a dish. You’ll get a sample of lots of different food, but you won’t have the high cost. Alternatively, serve just appetizers. A variety of appetizers are easy to prepare and of low cost. Discount warehouse stores often sell frozen and pre-prepared appetizers for about 30 percent off, if you find your self with little time to cook.
Search Your Closet
Search your own closet for an outfit that you can wear for New Year’s Eve and save on the cost of new clothes. Alternatively, you may be able to borrow or swap with friends. Combine pieces in different ways, or add in inexpensive accessories to create a party look for less.