Having fun with friends doesn’t have to mean spending loads of cash. Great times can be had in the comfort of your own home and for a lot less money. When trying to come up with events to host, ask yourself this question: what is the purpose behind your get together?

Is food your focus? Maybe you love to cook and want to share your passion with your friends. Keep it simple, stay away from recipes that you have never tried, stick to what you do well and have been complimented on. Decorate the table and use your favorite serving dishes, and don’t forget variety. In a group of people you will always have a vegetarian etc, so it’s always smart to have a plan B.

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Want your guests to mix and mingle? If so, make your guests feel special with creatively designed name tags or place settings. Remove obstacles to conversation like overly loud music, which might inhibit meaningful conversation.

If you just want a couple of friends over to relax, invite them out of their own Chicago apartments and over to yours for a Texas Hold Em night with appetizers and your favorite drink.  Gambling was once taboo for ladies but nowadays all-girl poker nights are common and can be a nice departure from your ordinary weekend routine.

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When celebrating holidays go big with decorations, a special menu, themed music and costumes! Guests can tell when you have put thought into a party and they will thank you by participating in activities and enjoying your hard work, not just the finger food.