After all the leaves have fallen off the trees, and dark gray clouds threaten to dust State College in a sheet of white, students are reminded that their semester of trials and tribulations may soon be coming to an end. But, before we get to packing our bags, many of us have to fulfill the collegiate rite of passage this holiday season: friendsgiving.
Friendsgiving can feel like a daunting task, especially when it comes to crafting a Pinterest-worthy event on a college student salary (aka nonexistent). But, fear not dear readers. VALLEY is here to curate the perfect budget-friendly friendsgiving night.
Decorations
The first step in creating the perfect night, filled with delicious food and great company, is setting the scene. Decor is arguably the most influential factor to any dinner party, especially one that we want deemed “Pinterest-worthy.” (Who cares about the food? You can’t eat a picture!)
Decor on a budget may be the most tedious task one has the burden of navigating through. In this friendsgiving on a budget, it’s important to steer clear of our favorite home decor stores like Home Goods or T.J. Maxx. Of course they’ll have the perfect pumpkin-shaped pillow or cozy throw blanket, but for one night, it’s okay to get a little rustic and do some DIY.
A table cloth made out of parchment paper is cheap, efficient and easy. Using your artistic abilities, or recruiting your roommate to do it for you, write down the names of each of your guests and draw a little doodle to keep them entertained for when they first sit down. Leaving the markers at the table can be a fun way to keep your guests busy as you work on serving the plates.
For this budget-friendly friendsgiving, Goodwill is going to be your best friend. Find some candle holders and sticks to serve as your cozy centerpiece, and search for mismatched cocktail glasses to add to the rustic ambiance of the night. Goodwill is the place to find hidden gems and as long as you have a vision, you can turn anything into what you want it to be.
Potluck Style
To alleviate some of the stress that comes with being a host, turn this friendsgiving into a potluck. Not only will you have the chance to spend your time crafting the picture-perfect dining table, but you will also have the opportunity to have a bit more financial freedom in other aspects of the evening.
A potluck-style dinner allows your friends to make a contribution to an event they have undoubtedly been looking forward to since you first sent out that invitation. By persuading your guests with creative freedom in the kitchen, you are ensuring that each person who takes a seat at your table is going to enjoy at least one dish …
A potluck means variety, and with variety comes conversation. While all your friends sit around drinking cider and complimenting each other’s amazing cooking skills, you get to sit back and experience the most important elements of this night: friendship and gratitude.
What are you in charge of making this friendsgiving? Tag @VALLEYmag on Instagram and let us know!
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