Create a Fiesta Without Busting Your Budget
May 5, 2006 -- When planning a Cinco de Mayo fiesta or any party, there are simple ways to save money.
"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition's" Eduardo Xol and "Savings Mom" Stephanie Nelson came up with lots of creative ways to throw a fiesta on a budget.
Decoration and Ambience
Use candles and votives to create a romantic ambience.
Hang balloons with festive colors.
Get paper products at a dollar store.
Instead of an expensive tablecloth, use a bright-colored sheet that you already have in your house.
Rather than buy themed music for the party, tune into a Spanish language radio station.
Pottery that matches your theme can really set a fun atmosphere, but it can be expensive. Instead, look for fun, plastic tableware that comes in a variety of party colors. The bonus is that you can throw it away when you're done.
A pinata is great, cheap entertainment. You can buy your own at the store or make one by following the directions here.
Food
Make it a potluck party and ask each guest to bring one dish.
Make it an appetizers-and-dessert party.
Forget about catering; make your own meal. To get great recipes for delicious Mexican food from Eduardo Xol, Emeril Lagasse, Sara Moulton and Wolfgang Puck click here.