Entertaining for the holidays – we love it, but it can be expensive and a
lot of work. Over the years we’ve tried many different ways to cut costs, keep our sanity
and enjoy our friends and family. We’ve included our favorites in the Holiday Entertaining
Tips checklist.
Start shopping for non-perishables and frozen items a month before and purchase these when on sale
Shop discount stores for table linens, napkins and table decorations
Purchase pre-made meals from the local grocery store or restaurant offering specials
Plan ahead activities for the guests to help so they aren't in your way
If you are a guest, don't forget a small token of your appreciation & send a thank you note afterwards
Keep club soda or other 'green' cleaning products nearby in case of an accident.
Make recycling bins handy for guests to use
Provide at least one dish for people who are vegetarians, allergic to wheat or other special diets
Tip: Ask guests ahead of time diet restrictions
Have guests & family write down what they’re thankful for and then read out loud and guess whose it is
Have family members submit ideas for a new holiday family tradition
Have guests bring a unique dish to pass along with copies of the recipe for everyone
Serve a special drink (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) instead of having the cost of stocking a full bar
Use nature to decorate your table and around the house (twigs, pinecones, evergreens)
Create a play list of holiday music on your MP3, set up your holiday CD’s or use the holiday music provided by your cable or dish carrier
For less expensive live music, look for local high school or college talent
Volunteer your whole family to serve dinner to the less fortunate instead of cooking
Make decorative leftover containers and send food home with guests
Invite people you know who can't spend holiday with their own family
Have meal catered and light a pumpkin spice candle for effect
Make reservations at your favorite restaurant serving the holiday dinner
Tip: To keep costs down consider a holiday breakfast out instead
Start a new tradition: ask your husband to volunteer with the men to clean up after the dinner
Make as many as possible of the food items a day or two before so you can watch the parade on TV or just sit and relax a little before the big event
Host a buffet instead of a sit down dinner especially if you have a group too large for your dining table
If friends or relatives live nearby suggest a progressive dinner (appetizers, soup/salad, main course and dessert are each held at a different home)
