You’re in charge of hosting this year’s holiday dinner. You want things to be perfect so you’re stocking up on everything you think you need for the perfect evening.

Before you know it, you’re spending more money than you wanted and you don’t have half the items you need yet. We’ve all been there.

Luckily the best parties don’t have to be the most expensive. Here’s how you can successfully host a holiday bash on a budget.

1. Make a game plan. Create lists of everything you need – food (don’t forget your Butterball turkey), drinks and decorating extras. This will keep you organized and on track when making purchases. Resist the urge to add in items that aren’t on your list while shopping. Need a little help creating your list? Start here, then add and subtract to make it your own. (read more)
2. Why not DIY? When it comes to decorating your place for the holidays, there are many things you can make yourself. Getting a little crafty can save you a lot of money in the long run. This is far more fun than buying everything pre-made, too. Head to Pinterest for tons of inspiring DIY ideas.
3. Potluck it up. Many hands make light work. The same can be applied to hosting. If your guests offer to bring something, take them up on it. If you plan on asking them to contribute, give them ideas to help them out. This can include bread, wine, or extra appetizers – every little bit helps your budget!
4. Go for something borrowed. Avoid buying something when someone can loan it to you. Need a kids’ table? It’s very likely a guest will have a spare card table they can bring along. The same goes for extra chairs.
5. It’s all about the atmosphere. Elegance doesn’t need to be expensive. Candles are one great and cost-effective way to amp up the ambiance for your dinner. Streaming a playlist is another must for the evening.
6. Waste not, want not. Turn your turkey leftovers into delicious post-holiday dinners. (read more)

Thankfully, you don’t have to break the bank. Thankfully, there’s Butterball.