Mom Saves Hundreds Hosting Kids' Parties at Home

At-home birthday celebrations are just as fun for kids, despite the extra prep work for parents.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 7:39am

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A mom explains why she skips expensive birthday venues and hosts simple at-home parties that save money and are just as fun for kids. She says backyard birthday parties save hundreds compared to renting out play spaces, and kids still get to do crafts and play with friends.

Why it matters

With the pressure to create elaborate, Instagram-worthy birthday parties, this mom's approach shows that kids' celebrations don't have to be extravagant to be memorable. Her story highlights how parents can save money and still provide a fun experience for their children.

The details

The mom says renting out local play spaces in her city of Raleigh, North Carolina can cost between $350-$400, not including extras like cake, pizza, and goodie bags. By hosting at home, she estimates saving around $150 while still letting the kids play in the backyard, do crafts like decorating ornaments or cupcakes, and enjoy the party. While it requires more setup and cleanup work for her, she feels the cost savings make it worthwhile.

  • The mom's daughters have birthdays in late October and mid-December.

The players

Elliott Harrell

A mom who hosts her kids' birthday parties at home to save money.

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What they’re saying

“Kids' birthday parties get expensive, fast”

— Elliott Harrell

“Kids get to do a craft and play in the backyard”

— Elliott Harrell

“It's more prep work for me to have a party at our house, but it's worth it”

— Elliott Harrell

The takeaway

This mom's story shows that kids' birthday parties don't have to be elaborate to be fun and memorable. By hosting simple at-home celebrations, parents can save hundreds of dollars while still providing an enjoyable experience for their children.