By Tara Leiker
My husband’s 40th birthday party just passed in August, and I felt quite anxious leading up to it. Given my medical status, as well as the low amount in our bank accounts, I wasn’t sure how I was going to pull off a fun and meaningful birthday for him. Believe it or not though, it was a great success! I decided that I would ask a handful of friends for some help, and that we would do it outside somewhere and incorporate a baseball game since he loves the sport. |
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As far as the cost: it was minimal! Because I asked all of our friends and family for help and delegated responsibilities, I only had to bring just a little more than I would to a potluck! (Well, I also made a homemade cake.) Our friends and family took care of the rest, each just bringing a dish and maybe contributing in one small way like setting up the field or grilling some hot dogs. We all worked together, and it paid off!
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My son just turned 4, and we decided a long time ago with 6 kids and a grandson that we would only have big birthday parties on big years (2, 5, 10, 16, 18, and 21- not realizing next year all in the same year we will have a 2, 5, 10, and 21!! I have to start planning and saving now!) and the in-between ones we will just do something which they can pick a couple friends to come to.
Our 4-year-old has been really wanting to go roller skating. We can barely afford for our own children to go, so we knew that we couldn’t pay for others too. But, we were able to let his friends know that he wanted them to come and what the cost is. That way, they can decide to come or not. Then, we are having a very simple pizza party at a splash pad near the skating rink right after. So now, some friends are coming skating, but all friends are coming to the park, and we will not be doling out much money to have a fun time tomorrow!
What are your strategies for throwing a fun and meaningful birthday party without breaking the bank? Please share in the comments below!
Recently diagnosed with a chronic condition that has turned her life upside down, Tara Leiker, a mother to 6, has had to learn how to make the best of a difficult situation. Tara, a Professional Counselor by trade, had to let go of her job as a Program Manager helping children with autism a few months ago, losing 60% of the family’s income. She is now on a quest to discover new ways to help her family survive and make ends meet. One of the ways she now spends her time is re-engaging her skills and interests as a curriculum developer, writer, and blogger.
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