Hosting a dinner party doesn’t have to break the bank! With a little planning, you can create a cozy, elegant evening for your guests—all while sticking to a budget. Here’s your go-to guide for hosting a stunning dinner party for six, including a full grocery list, cost breakdown, and flowers, all under $100!
Budget-Friendly Dinner Party Menu
A simple yet delicious menu that feels special and keeps costs low:
Appetizer: Caprese Skewers
Fresh, vibrant, and easy to make, these skewers are a great starter.
Main Course: Garlic Butter Pasta with Roasted Vegetables
A flavorful and filling dish that’s affordable and easy to prepare.
Side: Simple Mixed Greens Salad
A refreshing complement to the pasta, with a homemade lemon-olive oil dressing.
Dessert: Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
A crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make with pantry staples.
Drink: Citrus Spritz
A light, refreshing drink made with club soda and orange juice.
Grocery List & Cost Breakdown
| Item | Estimated Cost |
| Cherry Tomatoes | $3.99 |
| Fresh Mozzarella (small balls) | $4.99 |
| Basil | $2.49 |
| Balsamic Glaze | $3.99 |
| Wooden Skewers | $2.50 |
| Pasta (16 oz) | $2.49 |
| Garlic (whole) | $1.00 |
| Butter (1 stick) | $2.99 |
| Olive Oil | $5.99 |
| Parmesan Cheese | $4.99 |
| Zucchini | $1.49 |
| Bell Peppers (2) | $3.00 |
| Mixed Greens | $4.99 |
| Lemon | $0.89 |
| Salad Dressing (homemade with olive oil & lemon) | — |
| Dark Chocolate Chips | $3.99 |
| Flour | $3.49 |
| Sugar | $2.99 |
| Eggs (6-pack) | $2.99 |
| Baking Powder | $1.99 |
| Club Soda | $1.99 |
| Orange Juice | $3.99 |
| Fresh Flowers | $10.00 |
| Total | $84.23 |
💡 Hosting Tip: Utilize pantry staples like salt, pepper, and vanilla extract to cut costs!
Create the Perfect Atmosphere with Friend of Mine
A dinner party is about more than just the food—it’s about connection! Set the mood with candles, string lights, and these must-have conversation starters from Friend of Mine:
- Dinner Party Card Game – Keep guests engaged with thoughtful and fun questions.
- Book Club Cards – Perfect for book lovers who enjoy deep discussions.
- Family Cards – Ideal for bringing loved ones closer together.
Final Touches & Hosting Tips
- Music: Set the tone with a playlist that matches your theme.
- DIY Decor: Use candles, repurposed glass jars, and fresh flowers for a chic tablescape.
- Simplify Cleanup: Have a plan in place to make post-dinner cleanup effortless.
Hosting on a Budget Has Never Been Easier!
Tag us at @shopfriendofmine and share your dinner party moments! Looking for more hosting inspiration? Download Dolly’s 100 Hosting Themes for free here!
Happy hosting! ✨
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