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Don't Break the Bank: How to Throw a Great Party for Under $50
Here are some creative ways to throw a soiree that doesn’t break the bank.
Sometimes the best salve for the soul is gathering with our favorite people. A magical way to connect with others is through celebration, and Shondaland’s Let’s Party! Summer Fun, Food, and Beverages series is your personal guide to creatively entertaining and communing this season. Cheers!
Summer is officially here, and what better way to celebrate than throwing a party with all your favorite people?
But between decorations, food, and beverages, planning a party — be it a neighborhood barbecue or an intimate gathering with close friends — can quickly become expensive. The truth is, you don’t need a bunch of bells and whistles to pull off the greatest party of the summer. In fact, keeping it simple, with some fun, creative surprises, will not only be more cost-effective, but will have guests talking about your party well into 2023.
From hanging up disco balls to serving fancy frozen drinks, we’ve rounded up eight tips for throwing a fabulous party for under $50
Who says that only kids get to have fun in the summer? When hot temperatures become unbearable, consider a good old-fashioned water balloon fight. Whether it’s a backyard get-together or a picnic at the park, invite your friends to cool off by filling up some of these colorful bad boys. Just ask guests to BYOT (bring your own towels).
In case you missed it, disco balls are having a moment. Add some sparkle to your party by hanging a disco mirror ball from the ceiling. Not only will this fun piece of decor elevate the ambience, but it will also make any room instantly Instagrammable.
Nothing will impress party guests quite like whipping out a portable campfire. With the warm vibes flowing, you’ll feel like you’re back at summer camp as you gather your friends to make s’mores. Or at the very least, you can always lead a classic sing-along around the fire.
Speaking of singing, you know it’s a successful party when someone winds up serenading the crowd by the end of the night. This BONAOK wireless Bluetooth karaoke microphone is any party’s secret weapon. So, take a sip (or two) of liquid courage, crank up the music, and break the ice with your best rendition of Céline Dion’s “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now.”
For a more low-key yet equally entertaining gathering, invite loved ones over for a movie night. But instead of a TV, use this portable mini projector to create your own ambience. It’s compatible with multiple devices, and you can make your own theater in the comfort of your backyard or indoors (with lots of blankets and pillows, of course). Pop some popcorn, press play, and enjoy!
There’s nothing more satisfying (and fun) than enjoying a frozen beverage on a hot summer day. This freezable cocktail maker makes it easy to whip up margaritas, frosé, piña coladas, and other delicious treats. Simply fill the silicone carafe with your desired ingredients, freeze overnight, and serve the next day.
Hasbro Bust out your favorite games from childhood
Everyone loves a good game night … but what if you used games exclusively from your childhood? Travel back to simpler times with the help of a classic game like Twister, Operation, and Candy Land. Pick one to order for your next get-together to keep it under budget. Then, split your party guests into groups, and maybe even sip some boozy drinks from your new freezable cocktail maker, and let the laughs begin.
Indulge in (homemade) ice cream
Ice cream is the ultimate summer treat. And while you can never go wrong with a pint of Ben & Jerry’s, there’s something extra satisfying about DIYing your dessert. Enter: the TASTY by Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker. It has a 1.5-quart capacity, is easy to clean, and comes in an array of delightful pastel colors. Grab some kid-sized cones and sprinkles, and you’re ready to set up shop at your next party.
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Taylor Trudon is a writer based in Brooklyn, New York. You can find her on Twitter.
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