3 Smart Ways To Entertain The Frugal Way

Something when we’ve been working on in this journey to pay off $100k + in debt is learning what is worth spending money on, and what really isn’t.  We’ve been laser focused on spending money on things and experiences of value, things that will last, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Slowly but surely, we’ve learned that what we choose to spend money on may differ greatly from what someone else values.  And that’s ok, because everyone’s journey is different.

Aside from healthy food and good running shoes, we love spending time with friends.  Except that it’s expensive, usually.  So we set out to find ways to hang out with our our friends in ways that didn’t involve eating out, movie theaters, or other expensive activities.

We made a plan that was three-fold, and save us massive amounts of money on a night hanging out with friends:

Make It Potluck-Style

The first hurdle we had to address was food. No take-out, carry-out, or fine dining for us.  What we did instead was find a creative way to enjoy a ridiculous amount of food without one person having to cook for everyone: a potluck.  I furnished drinks, and entree (Lasagna) and of course, the dishes, and everyone else brought sides and desserts.  At the end of the night we were all stuffed, and no one was overworked.  Well, my dishwasher may have been overworked, but still.

Play a Game

The best, most inexpensive way to host a party that lets everyone be involved is to play a game!  We usually choose a game that brings out the competitive spirit in everyone, but that is appropriate for all ages.  Monopoly is our current favorite.  We used to play the board game, but were so frustrated trying to keep the bank, properties, and everything else separate during game play.  But then we discovered that the Hasbro Game Channel now has Monopoly Plus for PS3 & PS4!  The Hasbro Game Channel for PlayStation has Monopoly, Risk, and Trivial pursuit, all family friendly, easy to play games!

Playing Monopoly on the PlayStation took the game the whole new level.  The 3D game, as well as user-set “House Rules” had our friends’ kids in a heated debate about who owned the most property at one point!  I admit I’m a competitive person – like, really competitive – so I’d be lying if I said my husband and I didn’t have a bet going about who would win…..

Take The Pressure Off

The last thing you need to remember when hosting a game night, is to relax.  Especially you, ladies.  I guarantee you no one is going to white-glove your baseboards or shame your for a few dishes in the sink.  Everyone is busy, everyone’s family is messy, and everyone is at your house just to have a great ime!

There is nothing inherently wrong with eating out, going to movie theaters and other expensive activities, but we’re trying to save money, but without sacrificing memories, food, and fun.  That’s why we started hosting game nights.  They’re completely stress-free, relaxing, and now that we’ve discovered some of our favorite games for PlayStation like Monopoly from the Hasbro Game Channel, game nights are easier than ever to enjoy.

How to you hang out with friends, frugally?

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I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

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