Staying in isn’t necessarily the cheapest option – particularly when there are several mouths to feed and elegant entertainment is the order of the day. But before you have a budgetary breakdown, stop and take a look at our list of simple, cost-effective tips for hosting a dinner party.
From your grocery list to restaurant-quality atmosphere, we’ll turn you into a hostess with the mostest (and leave you with enough change to buy that perfect pair of heels).
By Michelle Balogh, Money Maven.
Lighting: Candles are a frugal girl’s secret weapon. They create an immediate sense of luxury and elegance at very little actual expense. Stick to a simple colour scheme – we recommend plain white – but mix and match sizes. This way you can create a chic arrangement whilst incorporating any left over candles that you have around the house, regardless of size.
Stick to the Seasons: Produce that’s in season will always be less expensive (It’s easier for retailers to supply), so think strategically when planning your menu. You’ll save those extra dollars and look like an experienced foodie at the same time. Way to impress your guests!
Go Vego: There’s no need to blow your budget on expensive meats, a vegetarian entree can be both sophisticated and delicious. Vegetarian dishes such as soups, salads and pasta can be just as exciting as carnivorous ones and won’t put too big a dent in your wallet.
Use Expensive Ingredients Twice: Boutique ingredients, such as cheeses, cured or rare cuts of meat, berries, rare spices and truffle oil can be incorporated twice into your menu. This allows you to ensure you get your money’s worth and reduce the number of items on your grocery list. Goat’s cheese, for example, is an excellent addition to a tart (for entree) and could jazz up a salad with your main course.
Centrepieces: When planning a soiree it’s important to think of presentation as well as the culinary delights that you are preparing. First impressions are always important and a well dressed table can have your guests wowed from the outset (perhaps even enough to make up for those inevitable last minute cooking catastrophes). We recommend clear glass vases filled with long-lasting lemons as a budget alternative, or splitting up a bunch of flowers and placing each in its own washed out white wine bottle for a chic feel.
Eclectic Elegance: If you’re a popular girl with a poorly stocked dinnerware collection there’s no need to spend big on a matching set. Alternate mismatched plates, glasses and serving dishes to create a trendy boho feel – done with care your guests will be certain you’re clashing on purpose.
Take these tips and get to work, a divine dinner party awaits you!
