5 Ways to Save Money on Your Christmas Party

All your friends and family look forward to your Christmas party each year. Money is tight, but you don't want to cancel the annual Christmas event. You have to think of creative ways to save money on your Christmas party.

Take advantage of your need to save as an opportunity to change the format of your Christmas party. You can still throw a fun party without breaking your budget.

Save Money on Your Christmas Party: Have an Appetizer Party

There is no rule that says you have to throw a full blown dinner party for your Christmas guests. Advise them on the invitation that you will have appetizers. Serving appetizers and drinks will cut your costs, but
still give you the opportunity to get your friends and family together. Cut costs on your Christmas party even further by having guests bring their favorite appetizer.

Save Money on Your Christmas Party: Potluck Dinner

I've learned the value and tastiness of a good potluck dinner from hosting Church parties. When you have a number of people to feed, one of the best ways to get them fed is by having them bring their own dish. A potluck usually consists of casseroles and desserts.

Since you are hosting the party you can make it clear that you will provide the dessert and drinks, while each guest will provide a hearty main dish for the potluck meal.

Save Money on Your Christmas Party: Cookie Exchange

A cookie exchange makes for a fantastic holiday party. Determine the number of guests who will attend. Make sure your guests bake enough cookies so that everyone at the party gets one or two samples.

I like to have enough cookies to sample at the party and provide a Christmas tray or plate for guests in which to take home cookies.

Save Money on Your Christmas Party: Finger Foods

When you want to have a little more to eat than just appetizers or deserts a finger food party is a good idea. Provide light lunch-type foods such as quiche, miniature sandwiches, fruits, and vegetables with dip. Add chips and nuts for something salty and don't forget a rich dessert. Your guests will leave so full they may think they've had a full meal.

Save Money on Your Christmas Party: Charitable Get Together

This year, instead of hosting a Christmas party in honor of your friends and family, have your friends and family help you host a party in honor of a charitable organization. You can have fun wrapping presents for a local children's charity, writing Christmas cards to soldiers, making cakes and candy for the elderly in your community, or making food baskets for the hungry. There are numerous organizations that will distribute your collection of gifts, food, or presents. You may consider, however, delivering the items yourself, especially to a nursing home or children's home. Your guests will leave your Christmas party blessed.

Don't call off your Christmas party because your budget is tight this year. Re-think your party and discover a creative, new way to celebrate the holidays.