How to Save on Holiday Entertaining
- December 12, 2012
- by Melissa Lawrence
Hello, hello!
For me, the holiday season is truly the most wonderful time of the year, but if you’re hosting a holiday party or doing any holiday entertaining, it can also be expensive, even if it’s just close family and friends. One thing here, one thing there, it adds up and especially since you are spending money on gifts too, this can make even a greater dent in your wallet.
From the party food and holiday recipes to invitations and decorations, here are a few ways you can deck the halls and toast the season without breaking the bank.
Saving on your Holiday Party
One way you can really save a bundle this holiday season is to go digital! Forget the fancy cards and envelopes, and send your friends an e-vite instead! It costs literally nothing! Also, when it comes to decorating, less is definitely more, in my opinion. A Christmas tree with simple white lights is really all you need to create a lovely and festive centerpiece for your party! Lastly, don’t go too crazy when it comes to festive appetizers. If you know the main dishes will take a while, buy one or two of the best party appetizers and instead have a very filling entrée to avoid having too many leftovers!
P.S., here’s the recipe for Swedish Glogg (mulled wine) that I mention in the video!
Hope these tips help you and your families enjoy the holidays AND save a lot of money this season! Comment below with your own!
Comments
Vivaciousgold
I find bargains all through the year and stash. I am lucky that my family members don’t do the latest craze.
Thomas Murphy
To save money I shop during sales and use coupons.
Janice
We ususally do word of mouth but when I do invitations I print them out myself and save money that way.
For decorations, I do put a tree but I love bringing the outdoors inside. I love cutting some magnolia leaves and decorating with them and I use oranges and apples. Don’t forget to put some cloves in the oranges and the smell is wonderful
Amanda Sakovitz
I save money for the holidays by using cash back sites and online coupon codes.
Melissa Lawrence
Great ideas Amanda — congrats, you are the winner of this giveaway! Someone will be in touch with you about your prize soon. Happy New Year!
Jeremy
I check the store ads in the Sunday paper every week and match those up with my Christmas shopping list.
Lori C
I don’t wait till the end of the year to buy Christmas presents. I watch for sales throughout the year for gifts I know my family will like.
sharon
I find it easiest to do my holiday shopping online where I can compare sites to find the best prices. Free shipping is always a plus!
NonnaHalcomb
We make homemade treats for everyone then pack them in Glad containers hand decorated with colorful sharpie markers.
Our treat list:
Chocolate dipped pretzels (white & dark)
Butterfinger cookies (super easy recipe, yes I will share if asked)
Gingerbread cookies
Sugar cookies
Cocoa dusted chex mix
Karen Medlin
Have a budget each month and we put a fixed amount back each month. I try to find bargains during the years,by checking out the clearance isles and putting gifts back, so there is no rush
Jill
I shop at thrift stores for little things I need to add that extra touch.
Shelley
I do a lot of shopping online (almost all of it) and we usually have finger foods for meals. Everyone has so many places to go and ours is the last so we keep it light and we ask everyone to bring something. For decorations, I love candles and of course our tree
Melissa Lawrence
Hi Shelley, I love simple candles too and nice idea with the finger foods, what sorts do you make?
Melissa Lawrence
The winner of this giveaway is Amanda — thank you all for your comments and great tips! Hope you all enjoyed your holiday celebrations. XO.