I was just reviewing my schedule for February and realized that we have four big celebrations happening next month. Here's the lineup:
Gumbo and muffulettas feed a crowd for Mardi GrasSuper Bowl- February 1
Valentine's Day- February 14
Academy Awards- February 22
Mardi Gras- February 24
Most of us NEED a little fun and some good news right now so pick your party theme and call your friends! It's more important than ever to come up with inexpensive ideas for entertaining so you don't have to forego the festivities just because money is tight. Here are some tips for keeping party costs low:
1. Don't hesitate to ask everyone to bring something to help with the expense--- it is perfectly OK and most are happy to help. Guests can bring beverages if they don't cook.
2. Use what you have to cut decorating expense. For example, I am digging out some red holiday ornaments to use for Valentine's decorations and gold garland and candles for a Mardi Gras party.
3. Serving a signature cocktail rather than having an open bar looks festive and will save some dollars. You should be able to squeeze 20+ drinks (depending on recipe and serving size) from one large bottle of vodka.
4. Instead of lavish decorations, take a page from the party professional's playbook. Caterers and party designers use food and beverages as decorations whenever possible. For example, set up a row or tray of glasses on the bar and fill them with a colored signature cocktail. Light the glasses by using a tiny LED light--- it will make the color pop.
Need more party ideas? My Mardi Gras party is up--- check out the slideshow. V-day and Oscar party ideas coming soon!