Throw a Labor Day bash on a budget?
Do you love to entertain but don’t like spending a lot of money on it?
That can be a problem — or not. Labor Day is Sept. 7, and it might the be the last cookout of the year for a lot of families. Maybe you’ll be tempted to stretch the dollar one last time on barbecue, potato salad and cold beer.
But when money is short, what are your options?
Is it unfair to ask friends to bring their own food — to your party?
How will you throw an affordable, end of the summer bash?
Will you clip coupons? Stick to store brands? Have a potluck? Forgo the burgers, hot dogs and ribs and just have snacks and soda?
What’s your secret to entertaining on a budget?
Have a story idea on how to save? Email rcash@ajc.com. I also write a How to save on…story every Tuesday for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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6 comments Add your comment
VoiceOf Reason
August 20th, 2009
4:16 pm
Just the basics: hot dogs, burgers, maybe bbq. Ribs, steak, kabobs, etc generally are too expensive and also time consuming. Besides that, keep the sides to a minimum also, no more than two or three. Everyone can bring their own favorite beer.
This is my policy for all cookouts I have because I’m the one paying and doing ALL the cooking. I want to enjoy it too without being stuck in the kitchen under a pile of bills.
SmartGuy
August 20th, 2009
4:57 pm
Enjoy yourself! A cookout is one of the least expensive per person parties you can host. Don’t make a fuss about asking people to bring things. If your friends have any class at all they will bring something (a bottle of wine or some beer) anyway. If you are lucky you might find them reciprocating with an invite to a nice dinner party this Fall…where the fare will invariably be more expensive.
Give Me da Loot
August 20th, 2009
5:28 pm
A cookout is the best way for people to mingle and let their hair down a little bit…..but i agree with smart guy…its kinda an unwritten rule..that..if you attend, u must aleast bring something to drink…
HelloDuluth
August 20th, 2009
5:58 pm
SAMS CLUB!!!!! HERE I COME!!
Yes, I am a Grill Master...
August 20th, 2009
6:07 pm
For serving a large group on a budget, I usually go for large cuts of meat (beef brisket and pork shoulders) marinated for about 48 then placed on the smoker. Cooks nice and slow and I don’t have to stand over the grill, not that I don’t love it. Burgers and hot dogs for kids. I supply the entrees, guests can bring the sides. Everyone is free to bring the beverage of their choice if they want something particular. Anyone caught bringing a chicken frank or turkey dog is refused at the door. If you’re vegan, I’ll make you a veggie burger, but that’s where I draw the line.
Master of the Flame
August 23rd, 2009
9:20 am
You can serve 50 people for under $100 if you use Sam’s Club. They have everything you need to make your Labor Day Bash a success!