Have you ever gone to the grocery store hungry?  Planning an event is much like shopping; if you set out without a list, you may wind up making impulse purchases that blow your budget.  

Once you have a spending limit in mind, commit yourself to working within those parameters.  No exceptions!  

2.  Find an Inexpensive Venue

You've probably been to some really impressive event spaces filled with sauve fixtures and trendy appetizers.  I hope you got a good look around, because you won't be holding your networking event there. These swanky venues charge a ton per guest and the costs can add up quickly.

Consider a casual outdoor event at a local park.  Many parks will rent out their shelter spaces for a reasonable fee.  Allow your guests to mingle in the fresh air and even bring their kids or dogs with them.

Your local library may have a variety of meeting rooms that can be reserved for free.  Many will include tables, chairs and presentation materials.  All you have to do is bring in your own refreshments and decor.  

Most college campuses have meeting halls to be used for a low cost, especially if it's your alma mater.  If they do charge a fee, offer to let them hand out fliers or talk for a minute about their campus, they may lower their cost.  

3.  Skip Meal Times

While it's lovely to feed your attendees, if you're not charging for your networking event, you certainly shouldn't be expected to cater a full meal.  

That being said, if you can't pay for a lunch, don't hold your event at lunch time.  Choose a time of day just after meal time so your guests will eat before they come.  Then, provide basic beverages and small bites, just enough to keep everyone satisfied.  

4. Host a Virtual Networking Event

One great way to cut costs is to hold a web conference.  If you are presenting or using a guest speaker, this is absolutely a great way to host a low cost meetup.  No one to feed, no parking to secure, no venue or servers to pay!

Depending on your audience, you may get a better turnout if your guests can attend from their own office chair versus driving to a physical location, especially if they can watch your presentation from their smartphone.  

Web conferencing platforms like Zoom and Uberconference are available for a low monthly fee.  Some include an option to record your meetup, so you can share your presentation with others on your company website or blog.  If you are a partially virtual company, you may already be using a web conferencing service that you could utilize for your meetup.  

5. Consider All Inclusive

If you do want to provide a meal during your event, consider choosing a restaurant banquet room that will cater to all your needs.  Find a venue that will provide the space, service staff, and presentation materials (such as a screen or projector) for you, and all you have to do is show up.  

Ask the restaurant to set a limited menu so you know exactly how much you are paying per guest.  If you plan to serve alcohol, limit the type and amount that is offered, or provide drink tickets for the guests.

Lastly, realize that hosting a successful event is more about content than cash.   If you know your stuff and present with passion, your guests will remember the information more than the appetizers.  

Let us know how you have cut costs at your events in the comments.