Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude,
togetherness, and of course, delicious food. But hosting a Thanksgiving dinner
can be a pricey affair, leaving many of us wondering if it's possible to create
a memorable feast without breaking the bank. With the rise of inflation, many
of us have seen our weekly grocery bills double, which leaves us wondering what
will the price of Thanksgiving cost us? The good news is that with some smart
planning, a bit of creativity, and a pinch of resourcefulness, you can absolutely
host a fantastic Thanksgiving dinner under $100.
1.
Set a realistic budget
The first step to hosting a
Thanksgiving dinner under $100 is to set a realistic budget. Determine how much
you're willing to spend on the entire meal, including ingredients, decorations,
and any additional items you may need. Once you've set your budget, stick to
it! This will be your guiding principle as you plan and shop for your
Thanksgiving feast.
2.
Plan your menu
Creating a budget-friendly Thanksgiving dinner begins with a
well-thought-out menu. While it's tempting to go all out with a variety of
dishes, focus on the essentials to keep costs in check. Here's a simple,
budget-friendly Thanksgiving menu to get you started:
- A whole chicken is more cost-effective than a turkey and can be just as delicious.
- Look for sales and discounts on poultry to further reduce your expenses.
Side Dishes:
- Mashed Potatoes
- Stuffing
- Green Beans
- Cranberry Sauce
- Gravy
Dessert: Pumpkin Pie
- A classic Thanksgiving dessert that's easy on the wallet.
3. Shop smart
When shopping for Thanksgiving dinner keep these money saving tips in mind:
- Buy generic or store brand products: Often, they're just as good as name brands but cost less.
- Use coupons and cashback apps: Check for coupons and cashback deals on groceries.
- Compare prices: Don't be afraid to compare prices at different stores or online to find the best deals.
- Buy in bulk: Purchase items you frequently use in larger quantities to save in the long run.
4.
Embrace Seasonal Produce
One of the best ways to save money on your Thanksgiving
dinner is to use seasonal produce. Autumn offers a bounty of fresh, affordable
ingredients like butternut squash, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts. These
can make for delicious, budget-friendly side dishes.
5.
Get Creative with decorations
Decorations can add to the overall Thanksgiving ambiance, but they don't have to break the bank. Get creative and make your own decorations from inexpensive materials. Here are a few ideas:
- Craft a centerpiece using fallen leaves, pinecones, and branches.
- Make place cards or a tablecloth with brown craft paper and colorful markers.
- Utilize candles and string lights for a warm and cozy atmosphere.
6.
Share the workload
Don't hesitate to ask your guests to
contribute. Thanksgiving is a holiday of sharing, after all. Encourage your
friends and family to bring a dish or a bottle of wine to share, reducing the
overall cost for you.
7.
Use leftovers wisely
One of the great things about Thanksgiving is the leftovers. Be sure to use them wisely to stretch your budget even further. Create inventive dishes like turkey sandwiches, turkey pot pie, or a hearty soup with your leftover ingredients.
Hosting a Thanksgiving dinner under
$100 is not only possible but also a rewarding experience. By setting a
realistic budget, planning your menu, and shopping smart, you can create a
memorable Thanksgiving feast without breaking the bank. With a bit of creativity
and resourcefulness, you'll be well on your way to a Thanksgiving celebration
that's delicious, fun, and budget-friendly. Remember, it's not about how much
you spend but about the love and gratitude you share with your loved ones on
this special day.
If you would like to receive more information on making smart money moves for your future, be sure to contact us today!
