Budgeting 101! Our Top 10 Budget Planning Tips

1. Do it now!

Putting off the budget planning is tempting (procrastinating desk cleaners, we’re onto you!), but it’s the first step towards your perfect party.

2. Prioritise what’s important.

Do you want your guests remembering the electric atmosphere from the live band, or the amazing food? Work out your party focus and let that form the basis of your budget.

3. Research your entertainment options.

As mentioned in our guide to Bijou & Budget-Friendly Partying, all of Alive’s bands come with their own professional lighting and PA systems, and offer a package of multiple entertainment options, like a free DJ service, all in one cost.

These ‘one stop shop’ artists might be significantly cheaper and avoid the need to source multiple suppliers. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Party Bands to get you started.

4. Account for everything.

Fancy a load of those Mulled Wine scented candles? Put it in the budget.

Decided to upgrade to the premium photobooth service? Add! The more detailed you are, the more accurate your budget will be. Ignore the small stuff at your peril!

5. Big Decisions.

Be aware that decisions on one cost may affect the cost of others. Eg choosing a large venue may mean you need to go a bit bigger with your decor, entertainment and production costs.

6. Don’t underestimate.

Underplaying costs to make your spreadsheet totals look good will ultimately lead to budget-blowing spending come party time!

7. Book a consultation.

Researching all your entertainment options, costs, and a host of suppliers takes time.

You could end up saving precious planning hours and money by speaking to an Alive entertainment planner. These guys are effectively personal shoppers who seek out the best fit for your event and your budget. They will help you find the best deals, compare all your options – and better still, provide you with a ready-made (and great-looking!) entertainment plan to present to any fellow decision makers. Check out our personal shopping page to get started.

8. Share your budget.

With point 7 in mind, make sure your event team is clued in to your spending plans. Share your budget, so everyone is clear what they have to splurge. That way, no one is planning an entire snowscape when you only budgeted for Christmas bunting!

9. Emergency fund.

Use your backup fund for genuine emergencies. Tempted to dip in and go larger with the canapés? Resist! Playing fast and loose with the portion of your budget reserved for a rainy day could leave you in deep water.

10. Don’t be afraid to spend.

Quite rightly, no one wants to see money flying out of the business coffers. And a teeny party bill might raise your boss's Christmas cheer… But you don’t always have to go with a bargain bin option if your budget allows for better – quality is key too! A bit of extra spend on ‘the wow’ can be the difference between a so-so gathering and the game-changing party you really want to be known for!

For more Christmas party entertainment ideas, check out our Christmas Entertainment page and our articles on Christmas Entertaining.

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