The summer months are a time for relaxation, enjoying the warm weather, and spending time with family and friends. Some of the best ways to do that are by throwing an awesome summer backyard party. The only problem is, these can get pricey.

The average adult eats about 1 pound of food, so you want to make sure you have plenty of it. Between cocktails, appetizers, entrees, desserts, sides, and condiments you’ll find yourself spending more than you planned.

We have 5 must-read tips to help you throw an awesome summer backyard party without breaking the bank. Read on to learn more, and get ready to party!

1. Set a Budget

Just like with any party, the first thing you’ll want to do is set a budget. Setting a budget and sticking to it is one of the most important parts of throwing a party. This will help you cut back on unnecessary spending and keep you organized all within an amount you set.

2. Send an Invitation

Once you set a budget and pick a day to throw your backyard bash, send out your invitations as soon as possible. With the internet at our fingertips, E-vites are easy to throw together with all the necessary information your guests will need.

Make sure to include a rain date or a “rain or shine!” note so your guests can plan accordingly. A time to arrive and a reminder to bring a swimsuit will also be appreciated by your guests. You even have the option to send out a reminder the week of the party to help those more forgetful guests remember all the details of your backyard party.

3. Plan a Menu

Once you have a budget set and the invitations are sent, it’s time to plan the menu. To save yourself time and money, avoid menu options that need a lot of prep time and include many ingredients.

Typical backyard summer parties have grilling options like hamburgers and hotdogs, but you should also include a variety of side dishes, fruits, and vegetables. The fruits and veggies are easy to throw on the grill and turn out delicious, plus they offer a vegetarian option for meatless-lovers. Side dishes like potato or macaroni salad don’t require a lot of effort and can feed plenty of people.

Once you have a tentative menu planned out and your guest list begins to climb, you might hear the question, “What can I bring?”

If your guests are offering to help with the menu, take them up on it. Side dishes and desserts are easy enough to make and transport while freeing up your time to prep and save you some money. Just keep in mind some items might need refrigeration, so make sure you enough room.

If your guests are looking for some excitement, let this company help you and your friends get lit at your backyard bash.

4. Get a Head Count

As your party date comes closer you’ll need to begin shopping for food, utensils, and decorations. Getting an accurate head count of guests who are coming will help you from buying too much food. This eliminates waste and helps you stay on budget.

This will also help you set up seating arrangements and tablespace for the day of the party. Making sure you have enough tables and chairs will help your guests feel most comfortable while they are there.

5. Decorations & Utensils

Though plastic plates, cups, and utensils sound like the easiest route, these will cost more than you realize. Skip the plastic and paper and opt for dishes you already have at home. It might make for more cleanup time after the party, but it will give you more money to spend on decorations.

Lastly, you’ll want your party to be fun and festive while staying on budget. If you have a theme planned like a summer garden party opt for summery decorations which can be re-used later on. Other decorations can include lighting or even party favors that are usable at the party like sunglasses.

Your Summer Backyard Party

With these tips and tricks, your backyard party will go off without a hitch and guests will be begging you to throw another one. Parties don’t have to be expensive and elaborate to be fun and festive. As long as you’re relaxing and spending time with loved ones, what else do you really need?

For other party planning ideas, check out our blogs. If you have questions about a specific post, feel free to contact us!