Entertaining In The New Economy
I don't have to explain the economic crunch to you. You've read about it, seen it on the tube, and commiserated with your co-workers around the watercooler, if you're one of the lucky ones still standing next to one.
But how do we entertain family and friends when the crunch has squeezed our wallets, like a caterpillar in the hands of a toddler?
Here are just three ways to show big love, while tight-fisting what little remains of your financial portfolio or, in my case, the one Mason jar safeguarding my holdings.
Dessert Instead of Dinner
Dessert can be just as fun as, and more economical than, inviting people over for dinner. If you bake, a pie or cobbler in season will delight your guests, whose olfactory senses will naturally create a sense of warmth and coziness in the amygdala. A cup of coffee or tea to cap off the night, will send them home feeling thoroughly loved.
Buy in Bulk
Just yesterday I shopped at Trader Joes and purchased a case of Charles Shaw Merlot,or two-buck Chuck, for those of you in-the-know. My total price came to $3 per bottle, and it's not too bad for an everyday wine. Decant it into a pretty little glass container, and your guests will never know.
Make it a Game Night
Send an invite over the internet, explaining to your guests that you would like to invite them over for a game of Carcassonne or Bananagrams. Tell them exactly what kind of snack will be provided, and allow them the freedom to bring something. Kind of like a pot-luck, but not.
Go ahead and entertain in this economy. Don't let the crunch prevent you from enjoying your loved ones. You may even have enough cash left over for a fancier Mason jar.
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