When someone in your family is graduating, it’s time to celebrate! If you’re not careful, you can end up spending a lot more than you planned on a graduation party. Fortunately, there are several ways you can throw a memorable celebration without breaking the bank.

Plan Your Budget

The first order of business is to decide how much you can spend. Once you have a total in mind, start breaking down how much you plan to spend for a venue (if you’re not hosting at home), rental items (like tables and chairs, if needed), food and drinks, serving ware and decorations.

Consider Co-Hosting

If your graduate has a tight-knit group friends — or even one bestie, consider talking with their families about co-hosting a party in honor of all of them. Splitting the costs will make your total budget stretch much further. Plus, you won’t have to worry about conflicting party dates and times with the other families.

Just be sure to spell out expectations up front and make it clear that the rest of the group needs to be consulted before anyone makes a commitment that takes the party over budget.

Have Fun with Food

Planning the party outside of regular mealtimes will give you more flexibility with the type of food you serve. Late morning could be a simple brunch buffet of baked goods and fruit salad, while late afternoon between lunch and dinner could be an ice-cream sundae bar or dessert buffet. The closer the party is to a typical mealtime, the more guests will be expecting a full meal. Keep in mind people may be attending more than one party on the same day, so there’s less pressure to make party food the main meal.

If you choose to serve something heartier, pans of baked pasta go a long way when feeding a crowd. Or keep it simple with hamburgers and hot dogs on the grill and ask guests to bring a favorite dish to round out the meal.

Skip Printed Invitations

There’s no need to spend the time and money it takes to send printed invitations when there are so many electronic ways to share party details. Use Evites and Facebook Events to spread the word. Be sure to include an RSVP date far enough in advance of the party that will allow you to adjust your food and beverage estimates accordingly.

Keep Decorations Minimal

There’s no need to overdo the cap-and-gown theme, everyone knows they’re at a graduation party. Some balloons in school colors plus fresh flowers will look bright and festive without going overboard. But skip the florist. Costco and other warehouse clubs have beautiful cut flowers — and may even make flower arrangements — for a fraction of the cost. Use some of your decorating budget to create a simple photo backdrop and offer fun props for Instagram-worthy selfies.

While you’re here, be sure to take a look at these graduation gifts that are better than cash.