Budget-Conscious Christmas Party Tips -- Savings Experiment

If you're hosting a Christmas party this year, there are ways to keep the costs down and your guests happy without cutting corners on any of the festive decor or menu items. Here are a few tips to keep in mind while you're prepping to entertain.

When it comes to keeping decoration expenses low, focus your efforts on three important areas of the home -- the dining table, bathroom and entryway. Use a few elegant candles and ornaments to make your guests feel welcome, not overwhelmed.

As for serving solutions, use an old catering trick. Take paint cans, phone books or empty flower pots and arrange them on your dining table. Then cover with a beautiful tablecloth to make instant risers for food and platters.

To save even more money, consider serving hors d'oeuvres in two courses. Guests will fill up, and you won't have to spend as much on pricier appetizers.

So, as you're putting together your holiday party, make sure to use these simple suggestions to trim your event budget. They'll ensure that your gathering is frugally festive.