When it comes to hosting a Thanksgiving dinner, it can get a little overwhelming, especially for your budget this 2022. From planning the menu to buying groceries to decorating the house and sending RSVPs. What’s more daunting is trying to save money while hosting a great Thanksgiving dinner. With our helpful tips listed below, you can have the best Thanksgiving party without having to spend exorbitantly.
Plan a budget-friendly thanksgiving dinner
Decide what your budget will be and decide how much you can spend on each of those things. For example, if you have three main courses, then set a budget according to that and don’t exceed your budget limit. You can have one starter and one dessert. This is the most important thing to keep in mind. Don’t go crazy with the menu. You don’t need to order any fancy dessert or beverage. Stick to the basics and write down the cost of each grocery item.
Jot down your plans ahead
If you are trying to save money this Thanksgiving, then it’s best to avoid last-minute planning, buying, inviting, and cooking. Plan at least two weeks ahead. Make a list of all the things you need to buy and the people you want to invite. If you want additional Thanksgiving decor, then look online for inexpensive prices and order them so they can arrive on time.
Compare prices
Different supermarkets offer different prices. They even have discounts on turkey and alcohol. Look for a place where you can buy all the things you need in one place so you don’t have to spend a lot of time buying ingredients. Make sure to keep checking your pantry and the list so you don’t order anything extra or something which is not needed.
Look for Thanksgiving grocery packages
If you don’t have the time to plan a list and buy each item, then this is the best hassle-free option for you. Many grocery stores offer a Thanksgiving package meal that you can book a week before. This includes turkey, side dishes, and dessert. You have to heat these items when they are delivered. If you need anything beyond this, then you can buy them on your own.
Borrow cookware from friends or family
More people means more cutlery and cookware essentials. You can buy brand-new cookware if you have a lot of money to spare. However, if you are planning Thanksgiving on a budget, then you need to make sure you don’t spend money on pots, pans, plates, and dishes. It’s best to ask your siblings or parents if they can lend you these things.
Don’t go overboard on drinks
Keep the drinks simple. Instead of buying soda cans for each guest, grab 2-liter bottles. Along with that, you can buy Yeo bottles of wine. Avoid having cocktails as they will be more expensive for you.
Buy boxed/canned ingredients
You don’t need to buy branded canned items when you are just going to serve them in dishes. Nobody is going to see the container it came in. For example, if you are making cornbread from scratch, you will have to buy flour, cornmeal, and other ingredients. Each of the components will tally your bill amount.
Host a potluck-style thanksgiving dinner
If you don’t think you’ll be able to pull it off alone, then it’s best to host a potluck dinner. This will also reduce your stress. You can make the main dish like turkey, gravy, and pies. Others can get side dishes and beverages. Take the responsibility of decorating the house as well. Ask your friends to bring one dish each and celebrate the day with them.
Keep the guest list small
Draw the boundary and avoid inviting everyone you know. Keep the guest list small and invite only those who are close to you. Fewer people, less stress, and less expenditure. This should be your main focus while planning a budget-friendly Thanksgiving party.
Skip the turkey
Skip the big bird and consider serving other types of protein like roasted chicken or ham. However, you may want to check with your guests first if the turkey is their first priority. If they say yes, then you can also think about buying a turkey but not the entire bird. Buy a large size of a cut turkey, like the beast, and cook it for those who wish to eat it. The others can have chicken or ham. Think smart when it comes to your Thanksgiving 2022 budget.
Don’t go for expensive decor
Decoration items are expensive these days. Instead of buying expensive decor, make them yourself. You can have a fun evening where you can invite your friends over for a craft party. You can serve some wine and cheese. Your decoration will be minimal and your guests will surely have a great time.
Tell your guests to bring their own drinks
Mention in the RSVP that it’s BYOB. Alcohol is expensive and you can’t spend all your money on it. Tell them they can bring whatever drink they prefer to drink. This will also ensure that they enjoy the drinks they like instead of drinking what you serve.
Feel free to borrow items from your friends and family. Just because you are hosting, doesn’t mean you have to buy every single thing to make this evening a success. If there are leftovers, save them for next week. Don’t stress over the details, plan your budget and enjoy Thanksgiving 2022 with your loved ones.
