Who says entertaining must be expensive? The MK team’s savvy tips prove you can throw unforgettable gatherings without emptying your wallet. 

Set up ‘build-your-own plate’ stations 

I love it when guests can build their own plate – whether it is tacos, pitas or pizza. Sticking to something as simple as a build-your-own burger or taco station is often cheaper and more fun than making a roast or having a meat-focused braai.  

Not only does it take the load off you to present perfect plates, but there are no special orders, as guests can skip an ingredient they don’t eat! Doing this makes guests feel involved and creates a relaxed environment. 

I also get flustered when there are too many people offering help or standing in the kitchen, so a good idea is to give your helpful guests a task outside. Ask someone to decorate or set the table, put one person in charge of the playlist, and put another in charge of the drinks station. That way, each person can focus on their task, and the load is lighter! 

Liezl Vermeulen, Editor-in-Chief 

Prep and plan ahead 

Prepare larger batches of food in the week before your party. This not only saves on electricity costs, but it also saves on the grocery bill because you can buy ingredients in bulk or on special. Focus on meals or elements that can easily be frozen, such as chicken pie, lasagna or bolognese. Prepping ahead also helps relieve stress and hard work on the day of your dinner party. 

Lichelle May, Food Editor 

Make it a potluck 

An excellent idea is to turn your dinner into a potluck – people usually offer to bring something along, so this time, accept their offers and delegate. Many hands make light work, and involving everyone in the food preparation will mean more enjoyment without all the stress on your shoulders.   

Assign each family member or friend a dish to bring, like a side, snack, dessert, drink or salad. When everyone places their dish on the table before serving, you’ll have more than enough to go around without exceeding your budget. 

If you do choose to cook yourself, keep things simple. Opt for a starter and main, leaving out the dessert, or stick to a main and dessert if you have guests with a sweet-tooth. 

Sjaan van der Ploeg, Deputy Food Editor 

Photography: Freepik