Christmas On A Budget in Sun Valley

If it’s your turn to host the big Christmas dinner in Sun Valley, there’s no need for hectic last minute scrambling for the right decor or to break the bank as you create the perfect holiday meal.

The holiday is about spending time with the people you care most about.

Table Settings
Don’t have enough place settings for everyone? It’s perfectly fine to mix and match dishes. If you have them, choose ones that have the same color scheme or a similar style. If you’re set on having matching dishes, consider asking friends or neighbors who are going out of town to borrow their dishes. Many stores also sell high-quality plastic plates which look nice and reduce the amount of cleanup you have to do after your guests leave. Who even notices the plates when they’re gobbling down a delicious meal anyway?

Decor
Being surrounded by your family and friends is perfect. It’s simple, practical, and visually appealing. If you like having more on table though, use as many items as possible from what you already own. Consider arranging flowers, pine cones, acorns, and/or branches from outside in a vase to create a festive fall look in the dining room. Or, if you want to purchase a few items for decor for this year and future Holidays, check out thrift shops or your local hobby and craft stores, which often have items on sale and coupons available online or in flyers.

Meal Planning
Keep the food you serve on the simple side, since fewer ingredients means a cheaper bill. The turkey is the star of the show! Use boxed stuffing mix and frozen vegetables for side dishes. Other ideas to save money on food include:

• Plan ahead. Look for deals on turkeys between different supermarkets.

• Use coupons. Many common side dishes and ingredients like green beans, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie filling go on sale just before the holiday.

• Make it potluck. Have the desserts or side dishes be potluck style where everyone (or at least those who live nearby) brings something. Most people are more than willing to contribute a dish!

• Keep it simple. If it’s a small gathering, consider purchasing a turkey breast instead of a whole turkey.

Hosting a Christmas feast doesn’t need to cost a fortune. By planning ahead, you can create a scrumptious meal that’s long on entertainment but short on expenses.

Just visiting Sun Valley for the Holidays? Let Coulter Properties help make it a permanent visit.