It’s that time of year again which in my house means it’s time for the annual Ramsay Christmas party. We actually had the party last night and it was a lot of fun. In preparing for the party I had some thoughts on ways we could save money. Here’s a few ideas that may help you save some cash when throwing your party this year.

1. Don’t buy decorations unless you have to: Try to use what you already have. Look around the house for anything that can be used as decorations. Keeping things clean and simple is the best way to go anyway.

2. Music: If you have cable you probably have a “Sounds of the season” station. Or if you have a radio – Then you have music. Don’t buy new CD’s for the party.

3. Clean your own house: Don’t pay to have a cleaning crew come into the house and clean for the party. Dig in and do it yourself.

4. Bake your own food: Again this is going to take time but instead of buying pre made items from the store or paying for a caterer bake what you can yourself

5. Ask others to bring food: If baking is not your thing or the party will be too large you can ask people to bring a desert or appetizer. Your guests will want to bring something so why not tell them to bring something that will help you.

6. Offer a smaller selection of drinks: Keep things simple with the drinks. Less mixed drink options and more wine. There are plenty of cheap wines you can serve and 99% of the people there won’t be able to tell the difference.

Merry Christmas!

Image by LaurenManning