Is Bigger Really Better?

The Overconsumption of Grandiose Parties: Is Bigger Really Better?
In a world dominated by social media, it’s easy to get swept up in the beauty of perfectly curated events. From elaborate birthday bashes to over-the-top weddings, many of us are exposed to images of grand celebrations that seem almost unattainable. With every scroll, we see photos of beautifully staged decor, designer cakes, and luxe venues—all made to look effortlessly flawless. But at what cost?

The Pressure to Keep Up: The Social Media Party Myth
We’ve all seen those stunning party setups plastered all over Instagram and Pinterest. These posts often feature dreamlike decor that costs thousands of dollars. And as much as we appreciate the artistry and beauty behind them, there’s a growing issue beneath the surface: many of these parties are staged, sponsored, or even edited to create an illusion of perfection. They showcase what we think a "perfect" event should look like—luxe, over-the-top, and out of reach.

The reality is, the average person simply cannot afford these extravagant affair(e)s. For parents trying to plan a memorable birthday party or couples working on a modest wedding budget, the idea of replicating these social media events is not only financially unrealistic but also unnecessary. So why is there this pressure to emulate such grandeur?

Should Parties Need This Type of Grandeur to Express the Point
The short answer is no. Celebrations, at their core, are about honoring a moment, a milestone, or a person. They are not about impressing others with the amount of money spent or the scale of the event. In fact, the most meaningful events are often the simplest ones. It’s the intimate backyard barbecue, the cozy dinner with close friends, or the homemade decorations crafted with love that truly make a celebration memorable.

The essence of any party or event is the experience—the connections made, the joy shared, and the memories created. Whether you have a minimalist setup or an extravagant venue, the purpose of the event remains the same: to celebrate and to cherish.

The Reality of Party Planning Costs: Why Grandeur Isn’t Always Sustainable
While social media may portray a world where money is no object, the truth is, hosting a grand event can be financially draining. According to recent data:

• Event Planning Costs: The average cost of a wedding in the U.S. is nearly $30,000, with many couples spending even more.
• Birthday Parties: The average cost for a birthday party for children is around $500 to $1,500, depending on location, guest list, and amenities.
• Budget Strain: An estimated 50% of event planners report that they have seen an increase in consumer spending on extravagant events, despite economic uncertainty. However, many of these planners also acknowledge that attendees—especially parents—are becoming more budget-conscious.

For most individuals, spending tens of thousands on a one-day event isn’t realistic. And yet, we’re often told that the bigger, the better, and the more elaborate, the more memorable. But are these extravagant celebrations truly memorable, or are we chasing the wrong kind of recognition?

Overconsumption: The Harmful Impact
The emphasis on grandeur and excessive spending doesn’t just impact the wallets of individuals—it has wider environmental and societal implications. Overconsumption is a major contributor to waste, particularly in the event industry, where disposable decor, plastic cutlery, and excess materials often end up in landfills. A lavish event may result in more than just temporary debt—it can create a long-lasting environmental impact that we often overlook in the pursuit of perfection.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 4.9 million tons of food waste are generated annually in the U.S. from events alone, many of which could have been avoided by planning smarter and more sustainable gatherings.

Shifting the Focus: Celebrations Can Be Beautiful, Affordable, and Impactful
It’s time to stop associating “value” with price tag and “memories” with the size of the guest list. A beautiful event doesn’t require a small fortune or a team of decorators. Simple touches, personal creativity, and intentionality are what make celebrations special. By focusing on what truly matters—connection, fun, and authenticity—you can create meaningful experiences without the burden of overindulgence.

Here are a few ways you can make your next celebration memorable without breaking the bank:

1. DIY Decor: With a little creativity, simple and cost-effective decorations can be just as impactful as expensive ones. Handmade paper garlands, fairy lights, or even repurposed items from home can transform a space beautifully. All of our boxes come with an Ideas Card for more DIY ideas to add to your party!
2. Focus on Experience: A theme is always fun, but you can express your theme without going overboard! Instead of spending on extravagant centerpieces, prioritize experiences. From interactive games to heartfelt speeches or creating a playlist of favorite songs, it’s the intangible moments that will be remembered.
3. Mindful Spending: Set a realistic budget based on what you value most. Focus on what will truly enhance the event, whether that’s food, entertainment, or a few key details that align with your vision. Most of our products range between $30 and $100 for a complete event kit offering a fun theme in your budget.
4. Community and Local Vendors: We are a small business that recently launched in January 2025. We hand-curate our items through other small businesses - hoping to support their visions as well. Supporting local artisans and businesses often leads to unique, affordable, and sustainable solutions. Not only does this help your community, but it also brings a personal touch to your event!

Celebrating without the Extravagance
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to celebrating. Whether you’re hosting a small backyard get-together or a grand occasion, what matters most is the intention behind it and the joy it brings. The pressures from social media to create the “perfect” celebration only contribute to an unhealthy cycle of overconsumption and unrealistic expectations.

Celebrating life’s milestones doesn’t require excessive spending. With the right mindset, creativity, and planning, it’s possible to create beautiful, meaningful celebrations that reflect your values—without sacrificing your budget or the planet. So next time you plan a celebration, remember that simplicity and authenticity can be just as impactful as grandeur. After all, everyone and everything deserves to be celebrated, and that’s something money can’t buy.