How to Host a Party Inexpensively

Throughout the year, there are plenty of nationally recognized holidays. In fact, there is almost a holiday every month, which gives us many excuses to celebrate. If you’re on a tight budget but want to throw a themed party or just a simple, elegant gathering, here are some tips and tricks to help you make it an affordable occasion.

Things You'll Need

• Fun centerpiece
• Dips, chips and other hors d oeuvres
• Sparkling wine

Instructions

How to Save

1. Buy in bulk. Instead of buying individual avocados to make guacamole (or buying prepackaged guacamole), buy a big bag of avocados, and make homemade guacamole. If avocados are expensive at your local market, chop up half the amount of avocados, and add in tomatoes, onion and cilantro. You also can add canned black beans.

2. Choose dips. Instead of buying smoked salmon or mini crab cakes, choose a smoked salmon spread or crab dip with an assortment of crackers or bread. Also, buy canned or jarred bruschetta and a nice loaf of focaccia.

3. Choose vegetables. A platter of vegetables is less expensive than a platter of meats and cheeses. Vegetables are healthier and more colorful. If you want to add cheese to your veggie platter, slice different cheeses at home. Cheese can get costly, especially artisanal cheeses. Buy in bulk at local food warehouses such as Sam's Club or Costco.

4. Forgo the flowers. Instead of buying expensive flower arrangements, choose a centerpiece of candles or exotic rocks from your backyard. Put fruit, such as apples and oranges, or limes and lemons, in a glass bowl or vase. This adds color at no extra cost. Choose colors and objects that go with your theme, such as gourds for Halloween or Thanksgiving, and pine cones for Christmas. Be creative.

5. Ciao to Champagne. Instead of offering expensive champagne, opt for bubbling wines from Spain or Italy that are reasonably priced and still have plenty of bubbles. If you're hosting a brunch, offer mimosa instead of a glass of champagne. This will cut back on the alcohol cost.

Tips & Warnings

• Get your kids involved! Have your kids sprinkle glitter on pine cones for the centerpiece or paint the gourds for a Halloween party.

• Stick with finger foods to cut back on silverware, cleaning time and trash.

• Have an assortment of foods, and make sure there is an equal amount of food and alcohol. You don't want you guests leaving tipsy!