You'd be amazed how easy it is to be a great host or hostess and also keep costs down. You just need to master the following techniques that will allow you to transform your small budget into a chic party you can be proud of:

Tip #1: Create your own party decorations

Many types of party decorations can be created at home just using clipart and free vintage scrapbook paper you find on the Web. The clip art can be printed, cut out and used in strategic locations, including being used as napkin holders or menu cards. And you can use the scrapbook papers as the structure of menu cards, place cards or napkin holders. They can also be used to wrap small party favors. This can be particularly nice-looking if you find matching scrapbook papers and clip art. If you want to get fancy, glitter glue will make them look sparkly and more professional.

Tip #2: Serve food that makes an impression

When doing your party planning, look for party recipes that are cost effective and also provide that "wow" factor. An example of this would be spinach and artichoke dip in a sourdough bread bowl, or bacon-wrapped pineapple that has been baked in the oven covered with a sauce created from brown sugar, pre-made chili sauce and mayonnaise and baked.

Tip #3: Set the mood with music

Music is soothing and also sets the party's mood. CDs will work, of course, but live music is even better. And live music doesn't necessarily have to be expensive. If you don't know a musician or band willing to work either for a small amount of cash or for free just to get the experience, check with your local college's music department. There may be student musicians who will work just for the experience and some free food.

Tip 4: Don't pay for the party invites

There are plenty of free birthday invitations available for download on the Web. Just find invitation artwork you like, paste it into a Word document or some other type of word processor and print. If the art was chosen wisely, the end results should exceed your expectations.

There are probably lots of other strategies to stretch your entertaining dollars. Just remember to keep your guests' ultimate experience in the forefront of your mind and don't let "inexpensive" devolve into "cheap". If you stay focused on being classy, no one will even know the event was done inexpensively. And before you know it, you'll be known far and wide for your unique parties!