Whether you’re planning a casual brunch for a family cookie exchange, a fun cocktail and appetizer buffet or a more formal sit-down affair, you can make each occasion beautiful and special without breaking the bank.
Barb Videen, a retired elementary school teacher, is well-known in Pine City for her contributions to the community through her work within the arts, gardening and various boards. She’s also renowned for lovely dinner parties and casual get-togethers, so much so she’s been asked on numerous occasions to teach cooking and entertaining classes through the Pine Center for the Arts.
While teaching, Barb makes an effort to ensure that all ingredients and supplies can be found locally. She often encourages attendees to shop at their local thrift stores to find treasures and bargains. Here are some of her tips to make your next holiday gathering special and economical.
1. Create place settings based on color and scale
When Barb shopped Pine City Thrift Store, she was immediately drawn to some adorable snowman plates, as well as a large gold charger plate. The small snowman plates were perfect for an hors d’oeuvres party. Since they were small, she placed them on a bright green napkin versus a placemat. Considering the smaller scale of the place setting, she selected a fun wire basket and filled it with gold-toned ornaments.
Her formal place setting using the gold charger is perfect for a sit-down New Year’s dinner. The gold and red give the entire table a very rich tone.
2. Embrace variety
It can be challenging to find matching table and glassware for each of your guests at a thrift store. So, rather than spending a lot of money for 12 matching wine glasses that make an appearance once a year, look for 12 different glasses that are roughly the same size. Likewise with dinner or small dessert/appetizer plates. Look for a variety of colors or shapes that are similar in size. This is a fun way for party-goers to distinguish their wine glass or buffet plate from other guests.
3. Think outside the box
If you can’t find enough napkin rings, consider using cookie cutters or thrifted ribbon. Martini and wine glasses are a fun way to serve dessert. Wide shot glasses make lovely individual votive holders.
4. Store or donate
By shopping at Family Pathways Thrift Store, you’ll not only save money, but you’re helping Family Pathways fund essential programs in our community. You’re also helping to save the environment. A great deal of waste is created during the holidays – from gift wrapping to disposable plates and party products. And if you don’t feel like storing your thrift store finds, you can always donate them back and allow another person to enjoy them. Or, allow your guests to take their unique wine glass home.
Are you hosting a thrifty party? We’d love to see your table-scape and décor. Share photos on Facebook and Instagram @familypathwaysthriftstores
Age 21
Age 28
Jackie DeFoe
Age 40
Age 20
Age 31
Age 65
Age 28
Age 29
Age 33
Age 27
Leneesha Helen Columbus
Leneesha LaDell Columbus
Age 72
Age 47
Age 47
Age 22
Miyona Zayla Miller
