I'm just starting out with a Bar/Bat Mitzvah planning business, so I'd be happy to talk to you about cost-saving ideas. I also would be able to provide affordable services, as I'm still learning. Email me if it's something you might be interested in prettytheworld1@gmail.com.

Many restaurants and hotels will have someone on site who is the "QB" for your party - so if you are comfortable doing decorations, etc then no need for a party planner.

It is helpful to have someone on site to help you at the party. You may want to ask around and see if anyone you know does this on the side. Where I live some people hire an expensive party planner and some people hire the "on the side" person who charges a few hundred bucks but makes sure the ship runs smoothly and you get to enjoy your party. The trick is finding a good person.