Adulthood has a funny way of reminding you that hosting a brunch is way less fun when you’re the one planning it. What starts as an exciting idea quickly turns into a grocery list longer than your to-do list, a growing mountain of decor items that should make your home look chic, and a question of whether three types of pastries are really necessary. And don’t even get me started on the pressure to make everything look Insta-worthy without maxing out the credit card. Brutal.

Easter brunch, in particular, feels like a whole other level of high-stakes hosting. Maybe it’s the pastel color palette, the photos of perfectly curated spreads that flood your feed, or simply the fact that it falls during that “I want to feel put-together” season. Either way, the pressure is real. But here’s the thing: hosting doesn’t have to be stressful, and definitely doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, the best gatherings are the ones where you’re actually enjoying yourself and not stressing over whether someone’s about to spill something on the linen napkins you spent too much on.

So this year, I’m on a mission to throw an Easter brunch that’s low on cost, low on stress, and high on everything that truly matters—good food, good company, and a cute atmosphere that doesn’t require a loan to pull off. If you’re in the same boat, here’s how to make it happen on a budget without pulling your hair out:

1. Focus on Simple, Crowd-Pleasing Food

No need to break the bank with fancy dishes—keep it simple and delicious! A few well-loved staples like a frittata, quiche, or pancakes can go a long way. For variety, throw in a fruit salad, some easy pastries from the grocery store (store-bought is fine!), and maybe a DIY mimosa bar to elevate the drinks without buying fancy ingredients.

Pro Tip: Don’t overdo it with too many options. Choose 3-4 key dishes, and you’ll end up with plenty to go around without over-stretching yourself (or your budget).

2. Use What You Have (No Need to Buy Fancy Decor)

You don’t need expensive decor to make your brunch feel special. Look around your home—chances are, you have enough plates, bowls, and serving trays to make it look beautiful. Grab a bouquet of fresh flowers (they don’t have to be roses—pick up some affordable blooms from a local shop or even the grocery store) and add a few candles for ambiance.

Pro Tip: Set the table with a few pops of pastel, but no need to go all-in on Easter-themed decor. A simple tablecloth, a few sprigs of greenery, or some soft cloth napkins can set the tone without costing a fortune.

3. Streamline Drinks Without Sacrificing Fun

You don’t need a full bar or expensive cocktails to make your brunch memorable. Consider a fun but simple drink station, like a DIY mimosa bar with inexpensive champagne and a few juices (orange, cranberry, or even a sparkling lemonade). You can also serve iced coffee, tea, and some flavored waters for variety.

Pro Tip: Skip the need to have everything pre-bought for the bar. Instead, let your guests make their own mimosas! This way, they can mix their own favorites while you get to kick back and enjoy the fun.

4. Embrace the Power of DIY

Think about adding a few DIY touches that won’t add to your stress or budget but will still elevate the experience. For example, you can make your own Easter-themed place cards (card stock and a cute marker are all you need) or even print out a simple brunch menu for a more sophisticated look.

Pro Tip: Check Pinterest for easy, budget-friendly Easter brunch DIYs that don’t require a lot of time or money—paper garlands, hand-drawn chalkboard signs, and simple centerpieces can create a stylish atmosphere on a budget.

5. Keep It Casual, Keep It Fun

At the end of the day, your brunch doesn’t need to be perfect. It’s about the vibe, the laughter, and the conversation. Make sure to take the pressure off yourself by keeping the tone casual and fun. After all, the best memories are made when you’re genuinely enjoying yourself with the people you care about—no matter how pristine the place settings are.

Pro Tip: Don’t stress over a “perfect” spread or flawless presentation. Embrace the imperfection—your guests will appreciate the effort, and you’ll be able to focus on what really matters: enjoying the time spent together.