Entertaining on a budget.

I'm assuming by now that you've got the basics of budgeting for one or two people but what happens when people are coming for dinner?

Entertaining can be a time where budgeting goes out the window. Hosts like to consider the dietary options and preferences of all the guests, want to be unique and original and have good quality food on the table. Is it even possible to do this on a budget?! Of course!

Here's some tips:
-Firstly theres nothing wrong with asking people to bring a course. If you think a potluck is boring why not create a menu and ask your guests to bring an ingredient for that meal. For example, if you're making a barbequed salmon why not ask one guest to bring a homemade marinade, another to bring lettuce or a salad green, etc. The best thing about something like this is you're not going to get 5 casseroles like when you host a potluck, and most people will pay more for better quality products.
-Plan your budget and menu before you buy. It is very possible to have great quality parties where a guests plate is under $5.
-Shop for your veggies, fruit, and meat at local markets. When I'm in BC I frequent Granville Island Public Market. Not only do I like the atmosphere but everything is very inexpensive compared to what you can find in the supermarket. The quality is usually better too.
-If you're planning a part that is far away (eg. Christmas). Start buying things and pantry items when you have extra budget money. That way when the day comes you're spending less because you have atleast the basics there already.

In my following posts I am going to post some reviews on entertaining cookbooks and feature some of the recipes that are unique, tasty and budget friendly.