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How to Budget for a Backyard Graduation Party

How to · Event

How to Budget for a Backyard Graduation Party

A simple plan to lock down a caterer for spring graduation without wrecking your cash flow.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $900 before anything else
Across the 0% window $50.00/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $900 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Graduation season sneaks up fast, and the best backyard caterers book out months before the tents go up. If you are throwing a party for a graduate this spring, you want to nail down the food early so you are not left scrambling or overpaying last minute.

We are looking at about $900 for a decent setup. That is a real chunk of change, but you can manage it if you map out the timeline now and spread the cost before the guests show up.

Remember that the 0% intro window is a hard deadline, not free money. If you still have a balance left on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card when those 18 months are up, regular interest kicks in on what you owe.

The steps

  1. 01

    Book three months out

    Spring is prime time for graduation parties, and local caterers fill their calendars by February. Lock in your date and menu at least three months ahead so you get your first choice instead of leftovers.

  2. 02

    Map the head count

    Caterers quote per head, and a ten-person swing ruins your budget. Nail down your guest list before you sign anything so you are not paying for food nobody eats.

  3. 03

    Spread the cost

    If you want to stretch out the $900 over time, the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. That works out to about $50.00 per month if you divide the total evenly across the window.

  4. 04

    Confirm the rentals

    Make sure your quote actually includes plates, napkins, and serving utensils. If the caterer just drops off food in foil trays, you will spend another hundred bucks at the store just to serve it.

  5. 05

    Set the final headcount

    Most caterers need your final numbers ten days before the event. Mark that date on your calendar now so you can adjust the bill before they lock in the grocery order.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

When should I book a graduation caterer?

Aim for at least three months before spring graduation season kicks off. Good local caterers book their weekends months in advance.

How much does backyard catering cost?

A standard backyard setup for a graduation party typically runs around $900 depending on your headcount and menu choices.

What happens if I don't finish paying in 18 months?

The 0% intro rate ends and you will start paying standard interest on whatever is left of your $900 balance.

Should I tip the caterer?

Check your contract to see if a service fee or gratuity is already included. If not, tipping 10 to 15 percent for good on-site service is standard.