I have taken on more hosting responsibilities the last few months as my parents lost their home due to the flooding associated with Hurricane Harvey. It was a crash course of hosting large dinner celebrations like Break the fast, Thanksgiving and Hanukkah at our house all within a few months. I have always loved entertaining and hosting but the costs can add up real quick. It’s been important to find cost effective & creative ways to entertain while still on a budget. I utilize my favorite stores (have you seen my Instagram story obsessions with all things Tjmaxx & Home Goods?!) to accomplish this.
I am all about planning early and on the actual day of the party not running around like a crazy person. I really think the more relaxed the host/hostess is, the better time everyone else has as well. I am sharing my go to secrets for hosting a party on a budget but would love to hear from you if you have other suggestions to share!
- Utilize your local dollar store. This is a great place to get holiday themed decor, plastic cutlery, cups & even plates for CHEAP. *Note-the plates can be pretty flimsy so I would plan on doubling up*
- P.S. my mom will crack up reading this suggestion. Growing up she would drag me to the grungiest dollar stores and I would complain the entire time. Now I am fully on board!
- AMAZON! This is why preparing ahead of time is so important. I typically order tumblers, champagne flutes and nicer flatware here for great prices. Amazon also has a ton of affordable decor options. I think I have these tassel garlands in every color scheme as they add so much fun to any space.
- TjMaxx and Home Goods for great prices on pretty much anything. This year for Thanksgiving I got gold chargers, fake china plates and adorable napkins for a 1/4 of the price of what I would pay if I bought it at a store.
- I find the best selection and price for flowers at Trader Joes. You can spend $20-$30 dollars and make a big impact on decor.
- Don’t be afraid to take your guests up on the offer when they ask ” what can I bring.” Ask them to bring something that would be helpful to YOU like ice, drinks or desserts. I have never claimed to be Wonder Woman and at the end of the day no one wins if you end up absolutely exhausted trying to do it ALL.
- Get inspiration on Pinterest or online to find ideas that you can do yourself. For example, I wanted a Hanukkah wreath this year and I found an idea on pinterest. I love how mine turned out and I can give myself extra kudos that I did it myself for under $50!
holiday wreath
Thanksgiving table
Trader Joe’s Flowers
