The things that we remember about the holiday season are not necessarily the things our guests remember. The soufflé that did not turn out to us was the best soufflé that Aunt Mary ever had. The season is about sights, sounds, flavours and the feel of new pajamas on Christmas eve. Holiday entertaining is all about creating a festive mood. This being said the season does not have to send you into bankruptcy, with these costs cutting tips you are sure to please all of your senses as well as impressing those around you with your savvy entertaining tricks. To get the entertaining off to an organized start it is important to plan. If you fail to plan you plan to fail. Once you have your schedule set out for the month the real planning takes place.
The first thing you see when you enter your home is your front door, why not set the mood for the season with a beautiful door wreath. While the air is still warm enough get your hiking shoes on and make a day of foraging through the woods for red berry branches, some cedar branches and pine cones. Get a wire base at your local craft store and make something that reflects your personal style. You will pay a fraction of the cost of a store bought wreath and it may become an event that soon becomes a holiday tradition. You can continue this theme into the home with mantle decorating to match the front entrance wreath. For great wreath ideas, check out this web site.
What will your wardrobe be for each event? Does your little black dress need an update or do you need a whole new holiday wardrobe. Instead of going straight to the mall why not try the local second hand stores for some great buys on designer labels. Only you will know how little you paid to be the belle of the ball. You can also get some great accessories like purses and beautiful vintage jewelry that will be the envy of all.
Book your beauty appointments early so you won’t be disappointed. Do you have a beauty school in your area? You can get a manicure or facial at a fraction of the cost of a salon service.
How much of your entertaining budget is set aside for food and beverages? With appetizers and beverages think about making your own in advance. Have you ever though of making and bottling your own wine. A five gallon complete winemaking kit will run about $100.00, add around $60.00 for an Australian Shiraz kit and in 4-6 weeks you have 5-6 gallons of wine. That is only $6.00 per bottle for the first batch. For more information check out this web site.
After your initial investment you are looking at a couple of dollars per bottle. It also makes great gifts for those hard to buy for people. You are saving in many ways. Planning an appetizer cooking event is a great way to step back and enjoy the little things like spending time with friends over the holiday season. For 40 freezer friendly recipes, check out this web site.
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