2009? Go Out With A Bang!

The exciting New Year is approaching! We have a great feeling that 2010 is going to be an amazing year… why not go out with a bang? Here are some good tips to have an enjoyable night with friends while not having to spend much money, especially after the recent holidays.

Use online invitations, either by regular email or Evite.com (my favorite). This way, you are able track RSVPs and guests’ comments. You also have the ability of sending everyone updates all at once.

Decorations can be inexpensive but also festive and glamorous. You can use balloons and streamers (one never can go wrong there) but also use the help of your holiday decorations. Take down the Christmas tree, menorahs and Santas, but leave up the Christmas lights and red poinsettias. Dim the house lights, take out the candles and turn up the music for a romantic mood.

For beverages, stock up on one to two signature drinks, in addition to non-alcoholic options (announce these signature drinks in your Evite so guests who wish to have something different can bring their own). And FIY: a bottle of wine amounts to 5 servings, bottle of champagne equals 6 servings, and one liter of alcohol makes up to 22 mixed drinks.

With food, keep it as simple as possible. Instead of a 3-course meal that would take you 3,000 hours to prepare (when you should be spending that time relaxing and getting that massage you deserve), serve finger food and appetizers from the frozen food section of the grocery store (they are easier to serve, easier to eat and saves money for you). Create a little more glamour by serving these appetizers on attractive, festive dishes. If you really don’t want to deal with serving all of your guests food, suggest pot luck.

Children: set up a kid-friendly room with games, a DVD player, and/or radio. Inexpensive snacks and drinks can be crackers, cookies, fruit snacks, juice, milk and water. And what New Year’s Eve party is complete without noisemakers? You can find plenty of options at your local $1 store or have everyone make or bring their own.

As for dishware, I stress you to not use paper goods. Reduce waste by not throwing everything out after one use. Concerned for water? Invest in a water bin that will fit in your sink. Washing a few dishes won’t kill you! You had a fabulous night, so what could bring your beautiful, fabulous self down?

Happy New Year from your Frugalistas, and we wish you lots of fun, happiness & love!