As moms, we know that hosting a big cookout can be both exhilarating and exhausting. We want to be the hostess with the mostest. However, being able to SIT DOWN and have a drink (for at least 5 minutes) would be so great! If we could host all of our friends and family without having to tap into our savings account? That would be a win as well. Today, I want to share a few tips with you for hosting a fun and festive Memorial Day barbecue — without going broke (or bald from pulling your hair out).
First things first — food!
The majority of Americans eat hot dogs or hamburgers on Memorial Day. These eats rank as inexpensive and pretty easy to assemble. If hot dogs and hamburgers aren’t your thing, or you want to host the barbecue that the entire PTA will be talking about? Try a bun bar. Cook and shred the meat of your choice. (If you’re vegan or vegetarian, beans or tofu make great options.) Drop your protein in your crock pot. Toast some large hot dog or burger buns. Then lay out your condiments and toppings. This gives you all the ease of burgers without being chained to the grill all day!
Another staple — drinks!
(I’m not talking about juice boxes, y’all!) Providing alcohol for everyone on your guest list can be really expensive. BYOB (bring your own bottle) is on almost every party invitation for a reason. Most of us aren’t millionaires. And even if we were? We wouldn’t be that way for long if we hosted an open bar everytime we had people over. Consider skipping the liquor store for your next party and ask your guests to chip in.
Need to keep the kids busy?
Make a quick and easy craft station out of items you already have around the house. Cut up some toilet paper rolls and let the kids dip them in washable paint to make firework cards. (See photos below.) Bubble cards are easy to make by mixing soap and water with food coloring. Let them blow bubbles with a straw and gently place a piece of paper on top. While you’re at it, have all of your guests make thank you cards for sending to veterans or active service members to thank them for their service to our country. Check here for a writing guide and address for sending your Thank Yous!
