Holiday Entertaining on a Budget

Learn How to Spread Christmas Cheer without Breaking the Bank

Oct 16, 2009

Think Christmas is going to be glum because the budget looks tight? Try these money saving ideas and entertain in style for the holidays.

The Christmas Season tends to inspire a lot of spending because people are excited to entertain friends and family, some of whom may live far and wide, but there is no need to stretch the budget beyond the limits of comfort. It is easy to deck the halls and play the perfect host without going broke.

Low Cost Decorating Ideas for the Christmas Season

Sure it would be nice to trim every archway with garlands of greenery and have enough lights to land an aircraft but there are ways to scale back the decorating effort without sacrificing style. One way to save is to use last year’s decorations and either pump them up with ribbon or spray them a different color for an added twist.

Another great idea is to decorate using food; fruits make great centerpieces and try making potpourri with the seasonal cinnamon and clove fragrance. Bring the outside in by placing a branch in a dramatic vase for a sculptural statement. This is made even better if the branch will flower in water.

Ideas to Keep the Cost of Food Down at the Christmas Party

Invite friends for brunch instead of the traditional Christmas dinner. This will keep the cost of food down because the menu will be centered on eggs and vegetables instead of meat. Another way to serve a budget friendly menu is to ask friends and family to bring a dish. This gets everyone involved and will keep the compliments rolling around the table when it’s time to eat.

Budget Drinks for the Holidays

Try serving mixed drinks. This is a good way to stretch the most expensive ingredient, the alcohol and still keep the mood festive. Sangria is a nice choice because the fruits and spices lend some Christmas flair. Iced tea is a good non-alcoholic beverage option and of course for those that like hot beverages try serving hot chocolate and spiced tea by simply adding some cloves into the brew.

Create a Festive Atmosphere on a Budget

Music adds so much to the feeling of the get-together and yet it costs absolutely nothing. If the selection is somewhat limited ask friends and family to bring some of their favorites to play. Lighting is another cheap way to create the right ambience. Candles are inexpensive and can really set the mood for an intimate gathering. Alternatively, make sure the fireplace is roaring for those in colder climates.

Christmas is the season of giving but it doesn’t have to signal financial woes. Spend time instead of money and there will still be lots of Christmas cheer.

The copyright of the article Holiday Entertaining on a Budget in Holiday Entertaining is owned by Natalia Jones. Permission to republish Holiday Entertaining on a Budget in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.