Hosting Family on a Budget

Today is International Family Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the vital role families play in our lives and communities. Families, both traditional and non-traditional, form the backbone of societies across the globe. Let this day inspire you to reach out to your loved ones, and express your gratitude for all that they have done for you, for each other, and their communities. And, if you're looking to host a family gathering on a budget, we've got you covered with some helpful tips.

Family gatherings on a budget 

In the face of economic challenges, it can be difficult to host family gatherings without feeling the strain. But with a little creativity and resourcefulness, it's possible to create a memorable and enjoyable event without overspending. By carefully considering your options and planning ahead, you can host a gathering that brings your loved ones together without breaking the bank.

Everybody brings something 

By encouraging your guests to bring a dish to share, you'll not only save on costs but also inspire a sense of community and togetherness. With everyone contributing something special, your gathering will be a beautiful reflection of the power of sharing and generosity. Take a look below for some ideas that are sure to impress!

Bring and braai 

Imagine a gathering with friends and family, where everyone brings their meat and drinks, and the host takes care of the rest. This is the beauty of the South African tradition of "bring and braai". By asking your guests to bring a side or dessert, you can elevate the experience and make it even more memorable. With a little bit of planning and coordination, you can create a wonderful and cost-effective event that everyone will cherish.

Pizza party 

Are you looking for a fun way to bring your family and friends together for a meal? Consider hosting a pizza party! Even with larger families, it can be a breeze to have each guest bring their toppings to add to the pizza bases or dough provided by the host. This way, everyone can enjoy creating their unique pizza and sharing the experience of building a delicious meal together.

Potluck 

Potluck dinners are a wonderful way to bring people together and share a variety of delicious dishes. By each person bringing a dish to the table, you can enjoy a feast of different flavours. It's a reminder of how we can come together to create something special, with each of our tastes.

Wrap night 

Looking for a simple, affordable, and low-effort way to spend quality time with your loved ones? Why not try this idea: buy a few tortilla wraps and let each family member bring their favourite ingredients, like lettuce, tomato, and chicken strips? Assembling the wraps and sharing them around the table is a great way to create cherished memories with your family.

Keep it simple 

This is your family; you have endured many different roads in life. While it’s wonderful to have the opportunity to give them a big, flashy party just being together and enjoying each other’s company is a great way to celebrate one another. Use what you have and don’t feel the need to break your budget to host a great gathering.

All in this together 

Celebrate your family, who have travelled many paths in life. While throwing a big, flashy party is tempting, simply being in each other's company and enjoying each other's presence is a great way to celebrate one another. Remember to use what you have and don't worry about overspending to host an amazing gathering.