Thanksgiving is a wonderful time of year to relax, spend time with loved ones, and appreciate all the things in your life that you are thankful for. It is also a time to overeat! Hosting family during the holidays can be both stressful and expensive. If you are hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year but are a little strapped for cash, we’ve gathered together some tips to help you save money, without compromising on quality!
1) Plan ahead
Once you know exactly how many people will be coming to dinner, plan your meal out thoroughly. That means deciding exactly what you are going to cook, and how much of each food item you will need. Make a detailed list and take it to the grocery store with you.
2) Choose wisely
When deciding what you are going to cook for dinner, choose food items that are easy and affordable to prepare in large quantities — such as choosing mashed potatoes over a sweet potato pie. When it comes to the meat, don’t overdo it. The meat will be the most expensive option, so make sure you have calculated exactly how much you will need per person. Rather than making turkey, ham and beef, just choose one type of meat and shop around different stores for the best price.
3) Have a potluck
By asking guests to each bring a dish of their own, not only are you saving money but you are also easing your workload! Organize guests by telling them to bring either an appetizer, side dish or dessert, so you don’t end up with too many of one item.
4) Don’t go overboard on alcohol
After the turkey, alcohol will be the next most expensive item on your shopping list. Your guests won’t be expecting a fully stocked bar. Choose one type of beer, a few bottles of wine, or perhaps a signature Thanksgiving cocktail.
5) Make your own decorations
You don’t need to buy expensive decorations for your home. Instead, pick up some small pumpkins and display them in a glass bowl in the middle of the dinner table. You could also collect some pretty fallen leaves in autumnal colours. Candles are also a cost-effective way of creating a warm and cozy ambience.
If you’re looking to buy a home in Ottawa and are finding the search a little overwhelming, the dedicated team at Royal LePage Performance Realty would be happy to help you! Reach out to us today and we will put our many years of experience in the Ottawa real estate industry to good use helping you find the home of your dreams.
