Yesterday we were surprised by guests all day long. Lunch was easy because there was only one extra. By supper time we had a full fledged party going on – and most of the guests were teen boys. Facing the task of feeding a crowd like that can be intimidating, but there is no reason to panic. It is possible to feed the crowd with out breaking the bank.
Tips for Saving Money on Entertainment
-
1. Fire up the grill – people will eat almost anything when it comes off the grill. You can also keep hotdogs frozen for ever (and just thaw them out as you need them). We stock up on hotdogs and buns (and freeze them together) during the “grilling” holidays like 4th of July. Many stores use hotdogs to draw customers in so they cost next to nothing.
2. Skip the sodas. The cans may be convenient, but Kool-Aid and sweet tea are much less expensive. An added bonus is that you are less likely to run out because you can always make more. Be sure that you are stocked up on ice or else keep the drinks in the refrigerator until its time to eat.
3. Fries go further than chips (and they are actually less expensive). Most people – and especially kids – will eat fewer fries than they will chips. Stock up on frozen fries when they go on sale.
4. Double your batches and freeze what you don’t use. Any time you make sweet breads, cupcakes or other dessert type breads make extras to stick in the freezer. When guests stop by unexpectedly you can still offer them something sweet.
<\ul>
Entertaining doesn’t have to be expensive. People don’t stop by to see your house or your yard or to eat your food. People come to see you because they want to see YOU. Every other reason is just an excuse to stop by and visit. Keep the food simple and you will save yourself plenty of money and just as much time. You will be able to enjoy your guests and they will be able to enjoy you.
WARNING: The more your guests enjoy stopping by then the more they will likely stop by – always something to keep in mind 
.