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Creatively
Frugal Refreshments
When you are in charge of
providing refreshments for an event, how do you do this without
your budget being eaten alive?
"After 2 years of planning socials for our
Sunday School, here is what I've learned:
Kids and parents prefer small (cheap) store-brand
cookies to the big fancy bakery cookies. Little kids
hardly ever eat those big cookies and so many of them
were thrown away half-eaten.
Serve refreshments based on what is on sale at the
stores, per the time of year. We serve root beer
floats at the August teacher orientation, because soda
and ice cream are inexpensive that time of year and we
watch for sales.
The biggest thing is to plan ahead of time. Last year
I made chili for the volunteer's Christmas party and
because I bought everything on sale ahead of time, it
was very inexpensive. I made chuck-roast chili with
all the fixings for 25 people for about $20. This
year, someone else was supposed to cook but at the
last minute I had to step in to do it. The same menu
for the same number of people cost nearly $50 because I bought everything full-price the week of the
party." ~ Catherine, Minneapolis
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"We generally potluck with friends or
at church social events. I shop for sales and use foods that are in
season. I prepare in my crock pot and have everything ready to serve
without any last minute fussing. Foods
are generally whole foods easily prepared and inexpensive."
~ Anne
"When my family and I host an
event for a large number of people, we usually serve nachos. A
large can of nacho cheese can be purchased at Sam's Club for under $5,
and serves around 35-45 people. You can also purchase a
"double box" of nacho chips for around $4.25, and only one
bag of chips needs to be used per event! For the final touch,
purchase the classic 'nacho holders'...125 for $5.44! We have a
nacho cheese heater, but cheese can also be heated in a crock pot.
It's time to create your trademark as the 'nacho people'!" ~
Angie
Editor's Note: Thanks to everyone who took the time to share
his or her ideas!
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