Reduce Clutter When Planning Holiday Parties

In last week's newsletter, we started talking about how to simplify the upcoming holiday season...this week, we'll look at ways you can easily reduce clutter during this time of year.

One simple way to keep from having to purchase new or disposable tableware (dishes, napkins, tablecloths, and glasses) or special serving ware for a large gathering is to simply borrow from friends or family, or even rent the items you need.

Most people rarely use a 48-cup coffee maker, for example, but it might be perfect for a brunch that you're hosting next month. If you don't have one, see if someone else might be willing to lend you theirs (plus, you won't have to store it the rest of the year!)

This also goes for spring form pans if you make cheesecake just once a year, place settings for 20 guests, and even the huge roasting pan you use to cook your turkey...do you use that for anything else during the other eleven months?

Rather than immediately look for a buying solution when you find you need something, see what other options are available to you. Not only will you typically save a bunch of money, but you'll often eliminate the need to add yet one more thing to store in your home.

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