How To Throw a Dinner Party for Less

There is something satisfying about being surrounded by friends and family after a long week and being able to enjoy a meal and good conversation. In the real world however, budgets are tight and time is short.

How To Spend Less on food

The easiest way to cut down on the cost of food is to have everyone contribute some part of the meal. If one guest brings fresh veggies and another dip, both will feel as if they have contributed for very little money and will save you the trouble. Allowing guests to bring food also saves you from having to cater to certain tastes and gives them some control over what they are eating.

Depending on the number of guests, you can divide the meal into courses or have everyone bring one ingredient for a special dish that you can make for them like lasagna or spaghetti. Trying serving snacks or a light lunch instead of dinner. Cold cuts and cheese with baby pickles are perfect and light on a hot summer day.

How To Save on Decorations

Creative as she may be, Martha Stewart has never really been tied to a budget in her life. If you feel the urge to decorate your table, stick to inexpensive decorations like candles and natural items such as dried leaves in the fall or honeysuckle in the summertime. Even rocks from a garden can be artfully arranged to create a mood around the table. Using oversized dishes to arrange food will also make a table look full and decorated. Most party stores also have disposable serving plates and bowls that add color and texture but cost around $10.

How To Serve Inexpensive Beverages

A simple glass container of water with a little fresh lemon is a refreshing, formal drink that won’t create a hole in your wallet. If serving cold beverages, dress them up a little with fancy ice. Freeze ice cubes with fruit in the middle or mint leaves. Alcohol can be very expensive so try for less expensive drinks that will still refresh your guests. If you choose to serve alcohol, opt for less expensive mixers such as (bottom rack) rum and cokes.

Easy Step By Step Instructions For Hosting a Dinner Party

• Invite your guests to all bring their own dishes to the party to cut costs
• Be creative and use outdoor items for decorations at the party
• Dress up your drinks with creative ice cubes or serve inexpensive mixers

Warnings, Advice, and Suggestions When Throwing a Dinner Party

Remember that the most important element of throwing a dinner party for less is the good company and chance to spend time with people you enjoy. Don’t get so caught up with impressing your guests that you forget to interact with them. Even if the food is burnt and your home a mess, everyone will remember how much they enjoyed the chance to let someone else plan a meal.

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