by C.K. Matthews

Created on: November 22, 2009

With the unemployment rate on the rise, housing markets still in a crunch and holiday shopping draining budgets people are having a tough time justifying lavish parties for New Years. No need to go all out to have fun - stay home and plan a "bring your own party" (BYOP) in five easy steps.

Planning a BYOP is as simple as inviting friends and family over and asking them to contribute to the expense. This will not cost anyone more than the price of a home cooked dish, maybe a few beverages and the gas to travel to your home.

The first step in planning a BYOP is to create a guest list. Calculate how many people your home can host comfortably. Keep in mind you will be setting up folding tables and chairs for games and activities. If you wish to invite a large group churches will often allow members access to their community room for parties that do not include alcohol - many churches will not charge a fee but donations are always accepted.

The second step is creating a theme. Since New Years represents new beginnings the food can include something the cook has never prepared before. This can be a scary thought for some cooks so maybe the cook can prepare something they have done before but have never served to guest before. Keep track of what people plan to bring and even offer possible options to ensure not everyone brings the same type of foods. The feast should include dishes from all food groups and categories such as main dish, vegetables, fruits, and deserts.

This event can include alcohol or not. If you choose to include alcohol have guests bring their own. Purchase sodas by the two-liter and have ice on hand. Two liters are typically cheaper than cans or individual size bottles but sometimes can sodas are on sell making them a convenient and inexpensive choice. Make tea or punch or ask some of your guest to contribute drinks as well as a food dish or as an alternative.

As part of your "New Beginnings" theme ask your invited guest to invite someone not known to you. The notion of strangers being in the home can be scary but if you do not trust your friend's judgment then whose judgment can you trust?

The third step is inviting the people on your guest list. There is no reason to send invitations. Chances are you have all your friends and family's phone numbers handy and since almost everyone has phone plans that include long distance and free minutes (at least on the weekends) make phone calls instead. This also gives you a good idea on who can attend

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