How to Throw an AMAZING Summer Dinner Party for Under $200

A sweet, special, and even elegant way of entertaining your friends this summer is to host a dinner party. If already you’re sighing because you don’t exactly have a ton of money lying around, that’s okay. You can host around 7-10 people and pay no more than $200.

No really. The key is to be strategic in your planning, smart with your budgeting and a little creative with your shopping. If you do all of that---and incorporate the following seven tips---you’ll end up with a small summer dinner party that your friends will enjoy (and secretly envy)!

1. Invite everyone personally

Paper invitations are classy. They really are. But you can also blow quite a bit of money getting some and paying for postage. Nix that idea. Forego E-vites too. These days, people are so used to online communication, they probably would prefer to hear an actual voice anyway. Just make sure to confirm the date and time before hanging up. That will help you to get a head count. And if you want everyone to dress up, or down, let them know that too. Everyone in their best summery attire will make for awesome pics!

2. Get creative with your centerpiece

It’s a small dinner party so you’re probably not going to need more than one table. Presentation is everything, though, so don’t forget to pick out a pretty tablecloth and a nice centerpiece. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on a floral one. You can get a tall glass vase and put some lemon and limes in it or create your own “Edible Arrangements” by designing one out of fresh fruit.  Oh, and since it’s summertime, consider having your dinner party outside around sunset. Don’t forget to invest in some citronella candles. That will help to keep the bugs away.

3. Buy dishes at Wal-Mart or a thrift store

If you can’t remember the last time you had a set of dishes that all matched, do make an investment in some of those. Believe it or not, Wal-Mart has some pretty nice-looking ones. And if you look carefully enough, you can even find old China at a local thrift store. (Don’t forget to have matching silverware too, please!)

4. Don't overdo it with appetizers

Another place you can blow your budget? Appetizers. Don’t be so busy trying to impress your guests that you have more than anyone can eat. With small parties, simple is better. We really like this Mexican dip. You can get other ideas on how to make simple-yet-tasty appetizers here.

5. Serve "pitcher cocktails"

You’re going to drive yourself CRAZY if you try and create your own bar (whether the drinks are virgin or not). Serve pitcher cocktails instead. That just means make drinks that can be put in pitchers and poured in glasses like sparkling cherry limeade or sangria. 

6. Be open to potlucks

Don’t think for one minute that it’s tacky to turn your dinner party into a potluck. It takes a lot of the pressure off of you, everyone gets to show off their best dish, and it adds variety to the menu. So long as you’re supplying the place, table, and drinks, most guests are more than happy to bring something to the occasion. (Just make sure to know what it is ahead of time so that you’re not getting five of the same things!)

7. Offer small desserts

You can make one big cake or a couple of pies. Or you can serve a few different small desserts like mini cupcakes, brownies, and strawberry shortcakes. This is a cute idea because it can double-up as party favors from your dinner party too. For a few other small dessert recipe ideas, click here. And remember to have fun!