There’s no reason a down economy should keep us from entertaining -- in fact, it’s the perfect time to turn to potlucks at home instead of outings to a restaurant where we have to drop a load of cash to enjoy a nice meal. The key is to hit up sources like Ikea, CB2, and Target that offer style-conscious goods at very reasonable prices. And as always, take advantage of freebies! So stock up and party on, friends…
- Menus… Whether you’re doing a buffet-style cocktail gathering of a sitdown dinner, menus always lend a classy touch. And, let guests know what they’re eating. Use your computer to print out inventive and inexpensive menus. You can be simple (pick a nice font and type up the tasty selections) or super-creative (add graphics, descriptions of dishes and ingredients, even wine pairings). Cost: $0
- Decanter… We’re addicted to decanters because they add instant elegance to everything from water to wine. Our favorite source is CB2 (Crate & Barrel’s younger, hipper sibling). Shop their streamlined designs which range from $4.95 up (and yes, that’s for glass not acrylic). Our pick: The Genie Decanter. Cost: $7.95.
- Napkins… While we avoid it like the plague on weekends, when it’s so crowded you can barely breathe, we are still madly in love with Ikea. Who isn’t -- when you can purchase a pack of 50 cocktail napkinsfor just a buck and change? Cost: $1.49.
- Serving Dishes… Once again, it’s tough to beat CB2 for the ideal combo of cool designs + killer prices. We picked the Porcelain Dip Dish (purchase a trio since you can use them nuts, olives, and dips). Another great find – the Medium Cuatro Platter (get two, because they class up everything from sushi to sandwiches). Cost: 3 x $.95, 2 x $3.95
- Glasses: To load up on all-purpose glasses, we head once more (on a weekday) to our local Ikea. The ultimate good-for-everything pick: Godis glasses, a six-pack. Cost: $7.99.
- Utensils: A set of six cocktail spreaders(aka mini knives) at CB2 is cheap and works for slicing up scrumptious aged goudas and spreading yummy herb dips. Cost: $5.95.
- Candles: This can be a high-ticket item if you shop at the wrong places (eighteen bucks for a pillar candle, really?). We stock up at Ikea where a six-pack of tapers and a small pillar candledoesn’t break the bank. Cost: $3.99, $2.99.
- Invitations… Send out invitations via online sites like Evite. Why do we love it? First, it’s creative (personalize to your heart's content). Second, it’s eco-friendly (saves paper, saves trees). And last but not least, it’s free (no printing fees, no stamps, no nothin’!). Cost: $0
For more ideas on how to live stylishly and affordably, check out our website, FoxyFiles, and our latest book, Curves Rules And Flat Is Fabulous: Sexy, Stylish Looks For Every Figure.
