Get the word out by sending online invitations using Evite or Facebook. This will save you between $12-$20 bucks if you're going for cheapy paper invitations. On top of saving money it organizes your RSVPs and cuts down on the paper you use. Green, free and easy. What's not to love?
Food for Thought: So, you've gotten everyone all excited about the party, what do you serve them? I recommend making your way to Trader Joe's, Ikea ( I know it's weird of me to say) and to your local wine store. Trader Joe's has an array of tasty h'ors dourves, interesting breads, cheeses and cookies and a variety of non-alcoholic beverages ( unless you're in one of the good states that sells booze at the grocery store, then pick up a variety of 2 buck chuck). The truffles they have are high in saturated fat however they are to die for, if you get them make sure it's for a party so that you have people to share with. Go to the wine store and pick out a few bottles of cheap red wine then go to Ikea and get Glog mix.Your guests will probably ask if you need them to bring anything, there is no shame in saying yes. Cheap, easy, and fabulous! These steps can set you up and save you probably about $50.
Musica, musica!: Comcast and Verizon have music channels that already come with your service! Also, if you have an iPod and stereo or cord that can be hooked to your television. You've already gotten your party started.
Mood: Break out the holiday decorations you have! Craft stores are a great place to find discount fabrics and materials for holiday crafts and decorating. Also, if you have candles make sure they're out, dim the lights and you've got a mood! If you are just starting out and don't have any decorations, try craigslist and freecycle, there are always folks giving stuff away or decorations for deep discounts. This could save you mucho dinero!
A token of my gratitude: For everyone braving the weather to be at your party and for them bringing tasty treats or booze ( even better!) you want to let them know you appreciate their efforts. One of my favorite holiday treats for folks is Peppermint Bark. You can make a double, triple, or quadruple batch depending on the number of folks you invited to the soirée, put it in mason jars tie a ribbon with a cute tag and "voila!" you've got a tasty treat for your friend/family/enemies to take home and enjoy! These also make nice (thrifty) gifts for co-workers, family,mailman, landlord, etc. so make extra!
These are the steps I'm going to follow to have a flawless, fun, and frugal holiday season!
