Hosting friends doesn't have to be expensive or stressful! Here are some tips and tricks to make your dinner party a success while staying on budget and keeping things fun and relaxed.
Make a shopping list and prep ingredients the day before. This saves time and reduces stress on the day of your dinner party.
Choose one course to splurge on and keep others simple. Pasta dishes, rice bowls, and one-pot meals are affordable crowd-pleasers.
Ask friends to bring drinks, sides, or dessert. It's a great way to share the cost and let everyone contribute their favorite dish.
Create ambiance with candles, string lights, or a good playlist. Atmosphere matters more than expensive decorations!
Focus on 2-3 dishes you're confident making. Better to nail a few simple recipes than stress over complicated ones.
Choose recipes that can be made ahead or don't require constant attention so you can actually enjoy time with your friends.