By the Numbers: Your Game Day Party Budget
Throw a bash without blowing your stash: Recipes made easy, inexpensive prepared foods, budget drinks, and team-inspired décor can be fun and festive even with a salary cap. Our party budget breakdown will show you how.
- Invitations
Print your own for just the cost of paper and toner (varies by printer) or use an online service like evite.com to send invites for free. Cost: $0. More >
- Food
Score big with inexpensive pre-made convenience appetizers that you can turn into mouthwatering finger foods with just a few extra ingredients. Bonus points: you won't have to spend the entire game trapped in the kitchen. Our complete appetizer menu for 30 people costs roughly $2.50 per person; supplement these hot semi-homemade nibbles with chips, dip, and brownies or cookies for dessert for an affordable but fabulous buffet table. Cost: $3-4 per person. More >
- Drinks
You don't need high-end wine or top-shelf liquor for the sports parties. It's all about the soda and beer! Figure an average of three drinks per person and save by buying a 24-pack at your local warehouse club store, or ask guests to each bring a six-pack of their choice. Supplement with Gatorade or punch and water. If you serve adult beverages, don't forget to appoint a designated driver to make sure your guests arrive home safely after the party. Cost: $1-2 per person. More >
- Décor
Pick up two rolls of streamers in your team's colors and a bag of balloons to decorate the game room. Ask guests to dress in their team's jersey or colors and make them part of the décor, too. Cost: $8 More >
- Prizes
We've got great game suggestions to keep your party hopping, even if the game is slow. Choose simple game prizes that everyone will like, such as full-size candy bars or soda can coolers. Cost: $1 per prize. More >
For Guests You Will Need:
Number of appetizers servings needed:
120
Amount of meat/protein in pounds:
10
Amount of side dishes and salads in pounds:
10
Number of dessert servings needed:
20
Number of drink servings needed:
40
Great Recipes and Tips, Served Up Fresh.
Cindy from California asks: How far in advance do I need to send out brunch invitations, and how formal
Answer: Brunch is one of the more casual get-togethers, so a week or two in advance is plenty if it's not for a s.... Continued >
