Gathering together with friends and family over meals is one of the simplest joys of life. Does anyone like dinner parties? But as a beginner hostess this year, I learned that costs can be summed quickly, while keeping that true. It’s especially expensive if you’re looking for Inspo social media. A huge number of hostesses share elaborate gatherings on Instagram and Tiktok with multiple courses and theme decorations. You can feel like you need to catch up with Jones. Good news? Hosting on a budget is viable.
No one thinks hosting is out of reach due to budgeting and costs. The magic of a dinner party is the gathering part. It’s about how you’re around the table and make them feel. No flashy menus or serveware is required. Thoughtiness, creativity and intentions have far more impact than spending a lot of money. If you’re ready to host a memorable gathering without overexpanding yourself financially, here are a few tips to get you started.
Functional images by Michelle Nash.
Keep your guest list intimate
I thought that only if I invited a group of people would think a dinner party was “worthy.” The truth is that the bigger party actually overwhelms me! I prefer an intimate guest list over larger gatherings. Small parties mean that you can have close, personal conversations, deeper connections, and yes, smaller grocery bills. Instead of throwing a big bash, hosting on a budget can also invite a few friends for dinner, or drink or dessert. When four or six people sit at my table, my introverted mind bulges. Of course, feeding four people is more cost-effective than more services and isn’t that special.
We will hold a potluck or cookbook club
Hosting on a budget means you don’t have to do it all yourself. It’s okay to ask your loved one for help! In fact, in my experience, my friends are happy to lend a helping hand. Potlucks and Cookbook Clubs are great to host on a budget and are the best ways to get everyone involved. Everyone brings food to share, so there’s no pressure for the host to do all the dishes. As a host, try taking care of your main dishes and drinks. Guests will bring sides, desserts and bottles of wine. It’s less stressful around you and it’s all in your wallet.
I’m going to be a vegetarian
In most cases, protein will be the most expensive food item for you. If you want to serve delicious and cost-effective meals, why not go to Vegetarian in the evening? A large batch of pasta is always a crowd delight, and colorful beet salads or grilled vegetables can be a great side. These summer pasta recipes are perfect for dinner parties and help you keep your menu budget relatively low. You can’t skip it with dessert either. This strawberry and cream Pavlova is a complete shortpper with just a handful of ingredients.
Use what you have
Consider this with your permit to use what you have. You don’t have to go out and buy flashy food or themed serveware. Incorrect plates and cups are welcome. They can even be chic, I dare to say. The most important thing about hosting is how you make your guests feel. A beautiful tablescape can set the mood and raise the atmosphere (and still doesn’t have to cost anything!), but it’s absolutely fine not to spend extra money on specialized items that can only be used once.
Rift hosting supplies
Thrift stores and real estate sales are gold mines for host essentials. This year I started building my own hosting cabinet, 90% of which are second hand. I found some beautiful glassware, silver, platters and linens when I sold the estate, but my most expensive piece was only $20. I inherited my grandmother’s set of vintage embroidered cloth napkins and made the tablescape special! Don’t forget the candle holder and vase. I saved just a few dollars on each. If you need supplies and are interested in hosting on a budget, run, walk, and head to your local thrift store.
Create one signature drink
Keeping your menu simple is important advice, whether you’re hosting it on a budget or not. However, this is especially useful when you are trying to save money. It’s attractive to serve guests with a variety of drinks (such as cocktails and mocktails), but the bars in stock are very expensive. Instead of offering multiple drink options, choose one to create a signature. Pitcher’s batch cocktails have such an atmosphere or you can choose to make a drink individually. This may be the ideal choice if you know that there is a mix of drinks and those who don’t (the best excuse to try these non-alcoholic drinks). Simplicity is important. This also keeps decision fatigue at bay.
Think beyond dinner
Throwing a dinner party is not the only way to create a memorable gathering with friends and family. Hosting on a budget includes welcoming guests only for café-style coffee and pastries, drinks and desserts, happy hour or movie nights with popcorn. There is no need to provide a complete meal and you don’t have to spend a lot of money on food and decorations. Instead, think about cost-free details. Get a fun playlist, light up your favorite candles and a conversation starter. Your guests will remember how they felt at your gathering, so focus on making everyone comfortable and reassuring.
Hosting is not perfect, it’s about connections. A simple gathering is very special, regardless of budget, when there are the right combinations of people gather to enjoy each other’s company. Happy hosting!
Source: Camille Styles – camillestyles.com
