6 Budget-Friendly Ways to Host a Fantastic Holiday Party

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Guest Blogger:
Natalie J.

6 Budget-Friendly Ways
to Host a Fantastic Holiday Party

Hosting holiday gatherings is a great way to celebrate the season with family and friends. But hosting a big to-do can put a strain on the wallet and bump up our stress levels this time of year. If you’ve got party-planning to tackle, here are a few suggestions for decorating and preparing for your party while sticking to your budget.

1. Use traditional decorations

When decorating for your holiday get-together, there are many options to choose from — and it shouldn’t be a difficult feat if you’ve already decorated for the season. If you’re not sure which route to go, try sticking with traditional decorations, which lend a classic look. Reusing holiday tree trimmings or pinecones can add an inexpensive and cozy dimension to your decorations. Christmas ball ornaments are also a classic – and easy to find online. If you do make a purchase, remember to use an Amazon promo code to help you bring these decorations home at a fraction of their retail price.

2. Get into food and drink bars

If you’re looking to save money, food and drink bars may be the answer. A hot chocolate bar is easy and affordable to set up: dress up a small table with a holiday tablecloth and napkins, then set out a variety of christmas mugs and fun, festive toppings such as peppermint marshmallows, sprinkles and whipped cream. Your guests will love putting together their own sweet concoction. You can also try a waffle bar as a delicious food option for your guests. Fresh fruit, whipped cream, peppermint chips and chocolate syrup are all great (and affordable) topping options. Just remember: you don’t have to go overboard. The idea is to keep it simple while still making it feel festive and fun.

3. Make it a potluck

Potlucks have been around for millennia, and for good reason. Schools, businesses, and friend groups all find that potlucks provide a good chance to celebrate multicultural approaches to the holidays and share tasty food with one another. Potlucks also reduce the cost of food and the amount of time you’ll spend preparing for the event.

4. Take advantage of sales

Everyone is familiar with the ever-popular Black Friday sale extravaganza, but there are plenty of other times during the season when you can save. Survey all your options when it comes to buying decorations and food for your upcoming gatherings, then take your shopping online to stores like Target or Walmart. Just be sure to direct yourself to the sales page and stay focused on your list to reduce last minute purchases.

5. Bring out the games

Games are a great way to keep a party lively and festive. Plan ahead for a White Elephant exchange and ask guests to bring an inexpensive gift. It’s sure to keep the laughter flowing. Other options for interactive games include Christmas Charades, Christmas Mad-Libs or Holiday Storytellers. Keep in mind that if you’re going to have a mix of ages, be sure your games are something everyone can enjoy.

6. Keep the dining ware simple

Some people want to avoid extensive cleanup and opt for paper plates, cups, and plastic utensils. Other people feel the pressure to pull out the finer things. Do neither. Avoid spending money on paper and plastic, and don’t pull out your fine China. Use your everyday plates and silverware that can go right in your dishwasher: this option is easier, cheaper and more eco-friendly.

The holiday season is a time to spend with the people you love. If you’re hosting large groups of friends and family, there are plenty of ways to save money, and trimming costs on holiday parties doesn’t have to result in less festive fun. You can pocket your change and still have a blast.

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