Easy Entertainment – Frugal Holiday Entertainment

One aspect to take into account when receiving guests is the economic cost. If you’re not careful, expenses can add up, pushing you over budget by feeding a crowd. Follow these simple tips to make your Christmas get-togethers memorable and inexpensive.

1. Don’t worry about decorating the whole house. Center the festive décor in the room where you are entertaining. Focus on the food and the table if you are on a budget.

2. Use what you have. Reuse the items you already have on hand instead of buying new ones. Collect branches and pinecones yourself and use them for decoration instead of buying.

3. When choosing a menu, make budget-conscious choices. For example, a stand-up rib roast is a beautiful entree, but it will add to your budget. Host of a Buon natale theme, an “Italian Inspired Christmas” and prepare two delicious but inexpensive pasta entrees along with salads and a loaf of foccacia. Choose recipes that call for lower-cost ingredients.

4. If you are hosting a large gathering, warehouse stores can save you a lot of money. Use a shopping list when you go shopping and stay on your list, even if the store has compelling new items you’d like to try. Stick to your list and you’ll stick to your budget.

5. Completing your menu with purchased items is a huge time saver, but keep in mind that it can add up to your overall costs substantially. Preparing all the food yourself or accepting the guests’ offer to bring a plate is one of the most cost-effective ways to save money when entertaining.

6. If serving alcohol, skip mixed drinks and serve wine and / or beer alongside other non-alcoholic options. Or if you want to serve a cocktail, make a “Cocktail of the Night” and serve it in a pitcher or punch bowl, instead of having an open bar.

7. Skip the disposable party supplies and use plates and serving pieces you already have for the table. Washing a full load of dishes in your dishwasher saves money and energy than washing them by hand and is less work for you.

8. For a centerpiece, think of fruits and vegetables instead of flowers. For Thanksgiving, use a serving tray and fill with pumpkins, mini pumpkins, apples, pears, and walnuts for an attractive centerpiece. Use a silver bowl with pomegranates, apples, or clove citrus for Christmas. You can eat most of the items after your holiday gathering is over.

Do some things and do them well. By focusing your efforts and budget with this in mind, you can entertain with style and efficiency.