How To Host A Christmas Party On A Budget

It’s the most wonderful time of year… but also the most expensive, particularly if you’ve volunteered to host an event. There are, however, some simple ways to cut costs when throwing a festive shindig – from going secondhand on your tablescaping decor to making vegetables the star of the show. Here chef and recipe writer Hannah Miller shares her top tips for hosting a Christmas party on a budget.

Christmas Party On A Budget: 7 Cost-Effective Hosting Tips

Create An Inclusive Menu

It’s common to be working with multiple dietary requirements nowadays, so bear this in mind when coming up with the menu. ‘Plan dishes that cater to a variety of dietary needs with minimal adjustments,’ suggests Hannah. ‘This not only keeps everyone happy but also reduces the need for a long shopping list. For instance, a hearty vegetable stew can be served as is for vegetarians, with the option to add a protein for meat-eaters.’

Shop Second-Hand For Serveware

We’re all dreaming of a beautiful table decked out with showstopping wreaths, runners and candles, but in reality achieving what you see on Pinterest requires shelling out on lots of expensive items. Instead, explore your local charity shop for quirky platters or serving dishes, recommends Hannah. ‘These hidden gems often stock unique, affordable items that can add charm to your table.’ 

Celebrate Cost-Effective Ingredients

Steer clear of luxury ingredients like steak and truffle – you don’t need these to create something delicious. Instead, Hannah suggests making ‘inexpensive, filling ingredients like potatoes, lentils, or pasta’ the stars of your dishes. ‘You can elevate them with creative seasonings or toppings, such as roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of cheese, to create something delicious and satisfying.’ How about this silky parmesan pasta from Donna Hay? Or Bettina Campolucci Bordi’s sweet potato and leek bake?

Utilise Affordable Alcohol

Rather than trying to impress your guests with fine wines, explore the alcohol aisle for other ideas. Whizz up some budget-friendly cocktails: bellinis, for instance, require just two ingredients (peach puree and prosecco). Don’t forget about cider either, says Hannah – not just for drinking, but for use in your cooking. ‘Use it to braise meats like pork or chicken for a rich, flavourful dish, or add it to stews and gravies for a warming seasonal twist,’ she recommends. ‘As a drink, serve hot mulled cider with spices like cinnamon and cloves – a delicious and budget-friendly alternative to mulled wine.’

Repurpose Decorations

When it comes to decor, dig out your old box of Christmas decorations and get crafty. ‘Look around your home for items you can repurpose as decorations,’ suggests Hannah. ‘A string of fairy lights, seasonal greenery from your garden, or even a collection of mismatched candles can create a warm and festive atmosphere without spending extra.’ Another hack is filling jam jars with LED battery lights (this will save on electricity too), or putting candles in old wine bottles. Got some old tree bead garlands? Drape them along your table. Or simply add a little bauble to each guest’s table setting, wedged in with your napkin and cutlery. Alternatively, why not have a go at creating TikTok’s viral door bow?

Embrace Make-Ahead Dishes

‘Opt for recipes that can be prepared in advance, such as casseroles, pies, or soups,’ says Hannah. ‘This not only reduces stress on the day but also allows you to buy ingredients in bulk, saving money and time.’ How about a hearty, cheesy aubergine parmigiana? Or a seasonal mushroom soup? Who knows – you might even have some leftover for your lunches the following week.

Consider a Potluck

Share the load by asking your friends to get involved with the cooking – ‘bring a dish’ parties are always fun and mean one person isn’t left to do all the work. Alternatively, get everyone to bring a bottle so you don’t have to fork out on all the drinks, or simply enlist a trusted friend to organise the pudding.

Hannah Miller teamed up with cider brand Orchard Pig on these tips