Entertaining on a budget is a challenge - so let's continue this conversation with some additional tips and tricks to help keep on track. Remember - the rule of thumb for an affordably elegant dinner party are these simple ABCs - think Ahead, streamline - stay Basic - with each entertaining essentials. make Cuts in areas of biggest value. (Our prequel - Affordably Elegant Dinner Parties Start Here: First Course - began with tips #1 through #5). 6. Wrapping it up with Ribbon.

Entertaining on a budget is a challenge. Balancing the need to count pennies for a myriad of details against trying to create a dinner gathering that's enjoyable can be hard on a savvy host's spirit. The philosophy of Good Food Gatherings points to easy and delicious menus pulled from favorite cookbooks, foodie blogs and recipe resources as a way to take the intimidation and trepidation out of hosting a dinner party. Getting the menu gameplan in order is a good place to s