Wednesday, August 5, 2009

7 Ways to Save Money While Planning your Next Event

Over at Social Betty we know that the economy has hit everyone pretty hard, but we also know that a limited budget should not rain on your event planning parade. There are a million different ways to save money and cut corners on your event without sacrificing the final outcome (or your sanity). Below you will find seven fun and easy ways to save money while planning your next event:

1. If you have the ability to schedule at any time of the year, shoot for off-peak seasons (keep in mind what off-peak means for the area you are considering). Certain venues will give huge discounts for filling up space during times when there are less visitors. This savings is often also passed along to your guests if the event requires hotel rentals.

2. Along the same token, if you have flexibility on days go for less busy days. Venues will charge considerably less for weekdays or even a Friday versus a Saturday.

3. Consider different times of the day for your event. Turn a birthday dinner into a birthday brunch since a sit down dinner is always going to be most expensive. Who says a candle in an eggs benedict isn't just as good as a candle in a cake?

4. Look into buffet style dining versus plated service. This saves on server fees and guests often prefer being able to choose what they want and their portion size.

5. If you are planning to serve alcoholic beverages at the event ask if you can cut down from a full bar to simply beer and wine. Another fun tip here is to create a signature cocktail as a third option, which looks chic and still keeps the cost low.

6. Ask the venue what is included with the rental fee (if there is one). Often times certain linens, chairs, and decor will be included. If it is not, ask if they will throw it in or if you can bring your own.

7. If there is a cake involved in the event, ask the venue if there is a cake service fee which usually applies due to the extra mess and dishes a cake creates. If there is a fee, consider cupcakes as an option and try to negotiate the fee since there will be less mess.

We hope some of these tips will help you (or jog your mind) on saving money at your next event.

Happy Planning!

Social Betty


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