Everyone likes to get together with a group of friends, but these days going out to a restaurant together can be pricey. If you're trying to save money and your friends are trying to do the same, try entertaining in your home.
You don't have to spend a whole lot to have a fun evening in. The next time you want to have some friends over, try out a few of these ideas. You won't spend a whole lot, and the memories you'll make together will be well worth it.
Before you decide on the type of party you'll have, you should spend keep a few simple rules in mind.
1. Don't be afraid to share duties, whether you split hosting duties with a friend or have other people pitch in with the food and drinks.
2. Borrow what you can. Instead of buying enough place settings, borrow extra plates from your parents or a friend. Need a specialty serving dish? Ask if anyone you know has one.
3. Use creativity instead of dollars. Fun parties do not have to be expensive. Think outside the box when it comes to decorations and games.
With these rules in mind, here are a few of inexpensive party ideas to get your started with entertaining on a budget.
Host a themed potluck dinner.
Having a potluck dinner is a time-honored tradition for cutting down on food costs. You can give this old practice a new twist by creating a fun theme for your potluck dinner. Try having a "comfort food" potluck where guests come up with new twists on old favorites. A "foods named after people" potluck is a great way to try out a Quiche Lorraine or Caesar salad recipe. You could also create a potluck around a themed ingredient, such as a peanut butter potluck or a lemon potluck. Make sure to provide your guests with a list of recipes that fit within the theme. Since each person makes just one dish, you'll all have a full meal without spending a whole lot of money. Plan an activity or game to go along with your theme, and you're all set for a cheap night in.
Throw an Hors d'oeuvres or Finger Food party.
If you'd like to prepare the food yourself, but don't want to spend a whole lot of money, try a Hors d'oeuvres party set for late in the evening. Even though hors d'oeuvres are normally served during a cocktail hour before dinner, there's no reason you can't switch up this tradition. Make sure that your guests know that only finger food will be served, and not an entire meal. This way, your guests can eat dinner on their own and then come nibble at the treats at your party. You could also hold a traditional cocktail party in the early evening.
Have a Movie night.
Mix together a movie from your local rental place with homemade popcorn and other movie treats. Make it a double feature for even more fun. You can create a movie trivia game with your computer and printer or play movie bingo with a film you know well. With the cost of food, this type of party can be accomplished for less than $25.
