Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Guide to Hosting Thanksgiving on a Budget

Being the host for Thanksgiving doesn’t mean you have to go for broke. Check out Apartment Therapy’s guide for entertaining on a budget!

Is it your turn to host the big holiday meal in your circle of friends and family this year? Or maybe you are the perennial host? Either way, while wonderful and worth it to host such a special gathering, it can get very expensive. We're pulled together a whole list of ideas on how to do it well in a wallet-friendly way.

Substitute. Let go of what you think you absolutely "need" for the table. For example, if you are low on vases, substitute drinking glasses or bottles. Check out all of our ideas for How to Set a Party Table Without Buying Anything New.

Potluck. Do a partial potluck - you can do the "mains" and let your guests help out with the appetizers, sides and desserts.

Candlelight. Nothing is more festive and beautiful than a candlelit room. Simple tapers (that you've stored in the freezer to prolong their burn time) and lots of tealight votives create a holiday ambiance for a few dollars. Check out our full list of simple, fast and inexpensive decorating ideas.

Consider Carnations. They may be thought of as a "filler flower" from time to time due to their inexpenisve pricetag, but they can be used beautifully for holiday floral arrangements. For inspiration and ideas, check out our How-To post on making several great looking arrangements.

Keep the bar basic. Our list of just the necessities is right here.

Go reusuable. It may seem more expensive at first, but will save lots of money in the long run. We have a full list of party necessities that you'll use year after year, and they are all under $5.

Finally, if you'd really like to host friends and family on the day but just can't swing the expense of a full dinner this year, you can be the designated "after dinner" spot. Invite friends to stop at your place last, after the big meal. Board games, coffee and dessert are on you!

Read more http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/chicago/guide-to-hosting-thanksgiving-on-a-budget-tips-ideas-and-links-101102

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