How to Cut Costs While Entertaining

The nicer weather gives us a whole new place to entertain: the outdoors! However, depending on your budget and party size, it can get a little expensive. After all, we have our own mouths to feed, and it can get pricey to cook for others too. But that doesn’t mean we should forgo hosting altogether. There are lots of cost-effective ways where you can invite family and friends over for a visit without breaking the bank.

KISS

Remember that old adage: Keep It Simple, Stupid! Don’t overcomplicate things. With Pinterest, Instagram, and TikTok, we constantly find ourselves inundated with gorgeous, over-styled photos of tablescapes and menu spreads (that are almost impossible to set up without a team and endless funds). It’s easy to get caught up in the hoopla, but remember: the whole point of entertaining is spending time with those we love. A few candles or wildflowers in a vase can create just as charming a setup for your get-together.

Make it a potluck

Hosting doesn’t have to mean you’re in charge of feeding everyone. It’s perfectly acceptable to plan a potluck dinner where everyone contributes. That way, you will only have to prepare one dish. Request that everyone bring something, and you’ll wind up with a beautiful spread of food. And since you’re offering up your house for everyone to eat and hang out, you’re still doing your hostess duties by enduring the dishes and all that cleanup.

Make it BYOB

Providing the wine, beer, and drinks can put your entertaining costs over the top, and quickly! Invite guests to bring their own alcohol – everyone is familiar with a BYOB party, so no stress! You can still do your part by setting up a bar with a variety of glasses, ice, mixers like juice and soda, etc. A few lemon, lime, and orange wedges can really elevate your bar and will only cost a few extra dollars.

Invite people over between set mealtimes

An afternoon get-together that starts at 1 pm usually indicates that a main course won’t be served, so guests will know to eat before they come. You can still put out snacks (chips, popcorn, cut-up fruits and vegetables) and beverages, but you don’t have to burden yourself with full-on menu planning. Your wallet will thank you.

Serve sangria and/or punch

If you do feel like you want to serve alcohol, being the host and all, an inexpensive option is to make something in a big batch. A great red or white sangria can help you double your offerings once you add the necessary juices, and a big summer-inspired spiked punch can serve the masses without denting your bank account. And, because it’s a watered-down version of a drink, people won’t get too tipsy too quickly.

Use seasonal ingredients

The internet is brimming with endless recipes but not all of them are price conscious. The best way to save money on food when entertaining is to make dishes that use seasonal ingredients. Summer is the best time to find things like tomatoes, peppers, and berries, so stock up on these yummy must-haves and turn them into crowd-pleasers everyone will enjoy. It will highlight the best the season has to offer and will be gentler on your summer budget.

Use plastic reusable dishes, not throw away ones

Dishes are never fun but let’s face it: it’s why we have dishwashers. Constantly buying paper or plastic plates, cups, and utensils might be easier but it’s definitely pricier. And to be honest, it’s terrible for the environment. Keeping your disposables well-stocked will cost you a lot of money over time, and if you plan on hosting parties or cookouts this summer, you’re better off using washable items. So, when guests ask how they can help (and they always do), don’t shy away from responding, “I’d love some help loading the dishwasher! Thanks!”