30/03/2014
How to host a fabulous dinner party on a low budget. Saving money doesn't have to mean sacrificing your sense of style. Throw a dinner party that's stylish, chic and doesn't break the bank. Here are eight tips to get you started. Good food,good wine and good conversation, that's what makes a great gathering. And those things need not suffer in challenging economic times. You can still throw a fabulous dinner party. 1. Don't invite too many people. There's no reason to stress yourself out and try to prepare a heavy meal, its more difficult and costly. Keep the party at a six to eight(3 to 4 couples including yourselves). 2. Keep it elegant but simple. Set the table as though you were a five star restaurant, even if its with low budget items. Use pretty table linen, candles, flowers and appropriate silverware and stemware. People will appreciate the beautiful atmosphere not the price tag. 3. Prepare everything ahead of time that you can ease the evening stress free. Prepare soups and salads and vegetables. It will save you time and pressure so you can focus and enjoy the evening as the host. 4. Be aware of presentation. Serve inexpensive foods and beverages but GLAM it up. Pour water from a pitcher with slices of lemon or cucumber in I. Pour cheap wine from decanters for a better look and taste and use elegant serving platters for food. Also, take note of your plating and garnish your foods. Make them look pretty after all the effort you've put into cooking. 5. Serve numerous courses in SMALL portions and with SIMPLE ingredients. There's no need to stuff people, after all you want them to enjoy every course right up to dessert. By serving small portions you not only save money but allow people to appreciate the flavors in each course. And use simple ingredients; start with soups, cheese and toasted baugette(bread) serve a soup or a salad course, serve lots of vegetables -incorporate lots of fruit in your dessert - cheeses, fruits and vegetables are relatively inexpensive and can go a long way at a dinner party. 6. Don't forget to serve tea and coffee. Its an inexpensive and elegAnt way to end a meal. 7. Find a way to keep your guests occupied and happy. That shouldn't be too difficult, they are your friends and will be happy for a free evening. Play a game, be sure to keep the conversation flowing, your fantastic food and decor might be all it takes. 8. Keep it short and sweet. Don't feel obligated to host an all nighter. Serve dinner over an appropriate period of time and call it a night. It will leave people egar to come back and most important, it won't break the bank
