Hosting Gatherings
August 1, 2024
Summer is synonymous with many things: Outdoor activities, sporting events, extended vacations, family reunions, and community celebrations are just some events that might come across your calendar. One common theme through all of them is bringing groups of people together.
Many retirees use their time to visit family members and loved ones who have spread out over the years. But summer could offer those people the schedule flexibility to come to you! Hosting a reunion is a great way to celebrate old memories while creating new ones.
Depending on the size and scope, this could be anything from an intimate get-together to a multi-day event with dozens of attendees. The following tips1 will help keep your planning and budgeting organized so you spend less time worrying and more time with loved ones:
START EARLY
The larger the party size (and the more travel that is required), the earlier plans need to start. Setting a firm date months in advance gives invitees the best chance to make themselves available.
PICK YOUR SPOT
There is no limit to where you can host, but finding the right fit will help with your budget. Whether the party venue is as small as your own home or as large as a banquet hall, finding the right size and setting will keep people comfortable without paying for unnecessary space. This also helps the budget for any catering or setup services purchased.
CHOOSE A THEME
A themed party does not have to be tacky or even obvious. It can serve to lessen the planning and financial burdens of hosting. Even themes as simple as a color or color pattern can decrease the cost if your party is large enough to justify buying supplies in bulk. This is less expensive than buying items one-off with no theme or plan already in mind. Having a theme also provides for better photo opportunities that make your event even more memorable.
SHARE THE WORK
Even if you insist on hosting and taking on the finances of a big party, simply allowing others to help with planning can lower your costs. Consider putting event plans on a live word document or spreadsheet that can be edited and viewed by other attendees. This makes it easier to ensure that everything is accounted for and helps to avoid mistakes in quantity or timing that could lead to last-minute expenses.
Whether organizing a party or just looking at your day-to-day life, we can help you gain understanding and confidence in your personal finances. Contact us today and schedule your consultation. Let us show how we can help you.