Throw a Super Bowl Party That Doesn't Break the Bank

Come Super Bowl Sunday, the pressure will be on the New England Patriots and New York Giants as they battle in Indianapolis for NFL glory. And it will also be on you, as you aim to plan the Super Bowl party to end all Super Bowl parties - without sacking your savings account. Here are some tips for hosting a Super Bowl party that doesn't blow the budget.

1. Get RSVPs - You've sent out the emails to your buddies and some jumped on board right away while others you know are notorious for not making a decision until the last minute. When planning a party, the worst thing is uncertainty over who's coming and who's bailing. If you don't have an estimate of how many people will likely be in your home, you have to plan - and buy - for the highest possible number, or risk failing like a kicker who blows the biggest field-goal attempt of the year. So, follow up with emails and make phone calls to get a commitment or a clear "No" as an answer. It'll save you money and anxiety.
2. Assign duties - When someone accepts an invitation to a party, you know they're going to bring something. They're probably even going to ask what you need for the party. Don't be polite and say "nothing, it's all taken care of" or "bring whatever you like." This is your opportunity to be Bill Belichick, so seize the moment. Assign one guy to bring potato chips, another the apple pie, a third the pretzels or salad, a fourth the soft drinks. You're not making inappropriate requests. Whether you ask them or not, they're going to bring something. Make it a team effort so you don't end up with six bags of Tostitos and no dip. Doing so saves you from overstocking for the party, and needlessly spending money.
3. Stick to a budget - It's tempting when you hit the grocery store to buy eight different kinds of chicken wings, just so you know everyone will be happy. If you know who's coming and you know what they're bringing, then your shopping should be straightforward and focused. Purchase the things a host should provide: extra beer, good wine and alcohol; meat and fish dishes; fruit and cheeses; and perhaps plastic dinnerware and cutlery. It's best to serve your guests a couple of knock-out gourmet dishes than stockpile copious amounts of junk food that most likely will go to waste.
4. Wait for a head count - Super Bowl Sunday is annually one of the top five days for pizza deliveries in the United States and Canada. According to the Associated Press, pizzerias on average see an increase of 35 percent on orders during the Super Bowl. What does that mean for your party? For one thing, you don't have to order early. Pizza places are as ready for this day as quarterbacks Tom Brady and Eli Manning will be when they enter Lucas Oil Stadium. Wait until just before kick-off before you place your order, because by then you will know exactly the number of people at your party, and you'll also know what toppings to order on the pizza, and if you've got decent friends they'll even huddle up to help you cover the bill.