Disclaimer: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, please adhere to your state’s health guidelines regarding in-person gatherings.
You don’t need to spend a fortune to throw a fantastic holiday party, especially this season. Now more than ever before, the most important part of a party is connecting with the people you love most, whether it’s in-person or virtually. Check out these tips for throwing a festive get-together that’s big on fun and creativity, not your bank account.
Go Digital
Skip the paper invitations and rally your friends and family with an event page on social media or email invites. This way everyone knows your address, and nobody can say they lost the details. As many of us are celebrating with smaller in-person groups this year, you can bring in the rest of the troops via Zoom or one of the many video chat options available right now. This way you can still sing carols and play holiday trivia with everyone you love, even if you’re not all in the same room.
Choose Potluck or Plated
It’s not a holiday party unless half of your guests plead with you to bring a dish or drink. Instead of waving them off, tell them how they can help. It’ll save you from a high grocery bill and make the evening’s preparations so much easier. For a COVID-conscious meal, consider sharing drinks and appetizers with a larger group first over video chat, and then having a smaller, plated dinner at home with the people in your core group.
Get Crafty
Instead of impressing your guests with overpriced holiday decorations from your local craft store, get crafty at home. Pick out a few pinecones from the backyard and hand paint them for a festive (and free) way to deck the halls and decorate the table.
Buy in Bulk
Odds are you’ll host more than one get-together this season. So, save yourself a trip to the store (and some extra cash) by looking for deals on cups, utensils, plates, napkins – basically any of your party necessities.
Make it a Game Night
Nothing brings family and friends together like some good old-fashioned competition. Dust off your favorite board game or deck of cards to break people out of their food comas and add a fun and free interlude before dessert. A quick internet search opens up a world of possibilities for virtual games as well including Mad Libs and the Houseparty app.
Remember What Matters
Whether you’re throwing a small get-together for a few friends, hosting your entire family, or celebrating virtually over video chat, never underestimate the power of a personal touch. Your guests don’t need lavish decorations or 5-star catering, just a space to gather (virtually or in-person) and enjoy each other’s company.
If you’re still hungry for more holiday hosting inspiration, check out our Deck the Halls on a Budget blog for creative ways to decorate your home for less.
As always, if you need financial assistance this holiday season, World Finance can help with a loan that’s right for you.