You know all about “swag” … those goodies you get when you attend parties. According to this NY Post article, swag is not just for grown-up parties, conferences and weddings anymore. Kids not only look forward to good swag, they expect it!  From expensive toys to LeSac bags filled with spa goodies and beyond, many parents are giving in to giving swag.

The article also points to parents who don’t agree with the swag-giving trend, citing one parent who is giving a lollipop with a note that a donation has been made to Haiti Earthquake Relief.

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I am holding a party for my kid at a party venue and when I was filling out the form to set-up my party, there was a section for “Tip” that I may pay on the day of the party in addition to the total amount for the party place.  There are two staff members who will be helping with the party at the venue.  The tips are meant for them.  Am I required to tip?  If so, how much?

Good question!  Party venues will charge their fees for the party based on the package you want, but often there are staff members at the party venue who will be helping run the party at the place.  These employees make their hourly rate of pay, but some venues give the option of tipping if their employees do a great job.  It is an opportunity for these employees to earn some extra money.  If you are very happy with their service and your budget allows for it, feel free to tip.  Standard percentages apply.  If you normally tip, 10% at a restaurant, you can keep with this amount or if that is too much given the cost of the venue, simply pick an amount that you can afford and reflects the service offered.  Usually tipping at these venues is not mandatory, so do not feel pressure to offer a tip if it is beyond your budget and/or you feel the service was below par.

I am holding a party for my kid @ Chuck E. Cheese this year, and I am looking for ways to keep the costs down since we are on a tight budget. Any suggestions?

Often you can find coupons for hosting parties at such places, definitely call up the venue and look on-line for coupons for a good deal. Do not feel bad about asking for a deal as how these places get more parties is from the kids attending these parties, having a great time, and telling their parents that they want a party at that same place next time. The company now has even more party bookings. So, feel free to ask them for coupons and the best deal they can give you ~ they don’t want to lose your party business!

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