I love the holidays! Even with crazy schedules to try and fit everything in, it is so nice to be able to visit with family and friends for open houses, family dinners or just to drop by some sweet treats to friends. I used to do a Christmas Party each year but I got too busy and overwhelmed. I am thinking about bringing it back, a bit modified to cut expenses. Here are some of the tips that I have used for my holiday parties and home entertaining over the years.
Frugal Holiday Tips for Home Entertaining
* Easy buffets are fun to put together and allow for a range of different foods that do not have to be expensive. One turkey can feed up to 10 or more when used as a snack or side instead of a full meal. Make it a pot luck for even less expense!
* Cocktail parties, brunches or even dessert only parties are easy to pull together and allow you time to meet and greet as well as keep the costs to a minimum.
* Keep decor simple by looking to nature. Branches, berries, greens, vines, and fruits can all become a part of your decoration by using some spray paint and a bit of imagination. Glitter and shine goes a long way to help make a lovely decorative piece.
* Strands of white lights are so cheap so you can use them everywhere and scatter some votives and candles for the shimmer and soft light that makes a lovely party setting.
* Gather old Christmas bulbs or grab some new shiny ones at the dollar store and load up your vases for some beautiful color in the room. Or keep it in the gold, silver and white ranges for a monochromatic look that will reflect the light.
* Add something unique by using fresh foods for serving bowls. Bread, bell peppers, squash and similar items can be hollowed out to hold appetizers, veggies, and snack items.
* Enjoy the time and have no worries. Opening your home to others is appreciated so spend the time visiting not worrying about what to serve.
Holiday entertaining can be fun or stressful. Keep it simple for the best time for everyone – you and your guests! Enjoy the holiday and the richness of the season with these simple tips. How do you like to entertain on the cheap?
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I hadn’t thought of using fresh food as serving bowls…
For most of my decorations, I go to the Dollar Tree and thrift stores. Plus, if my sister is around, she normally has some decorations she’s made.
I agree, keeping it simple is best. When things get stressful, no one has any fun!
I love pot lucks! Everyone brings their favorite dish and we always have a lot of variety.
Great tips for keeping simple and helping to keep in mind that it is about enjoying our family and friends.
My computer malfunctioned again, and I don’t see my comment, so here is a similar comment. I love your tips, especially the one about using CHRISTMAS ornaments in vases. All of them will help save money and I enjoy using natural items
To keep my stress level down, I do as much as I can the day before so I can enjoy the party.
I have a ton of white lights and should use them for decorating. Thanks for the tip.
Good tips. Parties can easily become expensive. You don’t have to rush out and buy fancy plates or napkins. Keep it simple by using things you have on hand. Have guests all bring something to cut down on your food costs. And simple stands of popcorn, a DIY wreath, or even just lighting red and green candles can really make the home feel Christmas-y.
I love the idea of using natural things to decorate for a party and the white lights are super smart and classy.