I've had some questions lately about parties in our house. I've gotten some comments regarding frugal party throwing. So, I thought I would write a post about some of my party throwing techniques. We host an open house in our home for our church once a month, and try to host company at least a time or two a month and as you know hosting company can get expensive. So here are some of my tips to offer hospitality often but not break the bank.
- Cook Ahead - I love freezer cooking!! And I have applied it to my hosting also. I keep a "stash" of quick breads and cookies in the deep freeze for last minute invites, drop by guests and those days where I run out of time when company is coming and I need a dessert. This keeps me from having to run out at the last minute and buy a $7 bakery dessert.
- Plan Wisely - And I don't mean just when the opportunity to host comes up. I have a list of easy, inexpensive appetizers to choose from each time I host. Most of these appetizers can be done ahead of time, and go far, and don't cost a bunch. Here are some ideas.
- Corn chips and salsa (I buy these at Sam's in the industrial size cans and they are even cheaper)
- Pigs in a blanket (Sometimes I make the buscuit dough and other times I buy the cheap buscuits from Aldi or Save A Lot to save time)
- Cinnamon Crisps - I cut flour tortillas into wedges, fry in a little bit of oil and toss in cinnamon sugar
- Sloppy Joes - the meat can be made even days ahead of time and frozen
- Taco bar - have each guest bring a topping
- Be willing to work - Don't just buy soda because it's easy, make the time to make tea, lemonade, etc. They are much cheaper and don't require all that much effort. Also, unless we are having a large group of people over I don't use throw away dishes. I just make sure the dish washer is empty before the party starts and use my everyday stuff. Doesn't take that much time, but sure does save a dime!!!
- Start late - start the party a half hour later and only offer desserts and snacks instead of the whole meal. Most of the time people won't even miss the food because they are still getting to fellowship with friends.
So, there are some of my ideas for throwing frugal parties. If you come to my house, don't expect fancy decorations or elaborate meals, but I pray that you will find a welcoming spirit, good fellowship that pleases the Lord, and food that you can enjoy.
I hope these ideas help. If you have any specific questions I would love for you to ask in a comment and I will follow up with you or in another post. Now go and offer Godly hospitality to those around you!!
Amanda
