“A huge misconception about throwing a dinner party is that you have to splash out to make an impact,” says TikTok creator and home hacks expert Tanya (@tanyahomeinspo).

“Many don’t realise that you can create the ‘wow factor’ on a small budget. You don’t need to buy lavish home decorations, fancy china plates or expensive cutlery. Chances are if you’re hosting at home, then the space is already cosy and inviting. Added extras aren’t crucial and may not necessarily impress your guests anyway.”

“I think a lot of people are concerned about the cost of hosting at the moment, especially with fuel bills and the rising cost of ingredients,” adds chef and TikTok Creator Tristan Welch (@chef_tristan_welch).

“Plus, along with the stress of entertaining there are other considerations – for example, serving food at the right time – but the key thing is to not overthink things and allow yourself enough time to enjoy being the host.”

Tanya suggests that planning is key to keeping the stress levels down and ensuring that you have a good time along with your guests.

“It may sound simple, but using a checklist or planner is helpful in keeping you on the right path, especially if you’re working within a budget. Make lists of what you need before you shop. Knowing exactly what you have in mind beforehand helps you source things effectively and stops you overspending on items that go unused.”

Check out another top hack from Tanya below…

When it comes to creating the perfect table, there are many ways to come up with a theme or something spectacular without having to spend too much money.

“Raid the garden or the park for greenery to decorate the table,” says TikTok creator Ann Russell (@annrussell03). “Bunches of attractive leaves in jam jars or tied with ribbon can look amazing, especially if you use dark green napkins – and yes, paper napkins are fine.”

“Lay up your table properly in the morning, then you’ll have time to rectify any shortfall in the decor. Don’t overcrowd the table either – you will have food, wine and elbows as well as decorations to make room for.”

“I personally enjoy making instead of sourcing pre-made decorations,” Tanya reveals. “This eliminates spending costs and adds a personal touch to any party. Bulk buy arts and crafts items to make your own, or why not pick a theme you already have decorations for. Dust off the box in the attic and see what treasures you can up-cycle.”

Here’s another top home hack from Ann…

Tristan believes the key to delicious, inexpensive food is more about your mindset than the actual ingredients.

“Cook the things that you really love to cook and then your passion will make the food taste better,” he says. “Get ahead and plan in advance if you can. Cook something like a stew or a casserole, a curry, a lasagne – things that taste great the longer you cook them.”

Ann adds that a slow-cooker is also a fantastic (and reasonably priced) tool to have in the kitchen when inviting friends over for food. They can also be a lot more energy efficient than running an oven.

“Such 70s classics as boeuf bourguignon or coq au vin are fairly easy to make and can be very economical when made in a slow-cooker,” she says. “Check dietary requirements prior to the night and make sure you cater for everyone – it’s easier and cheaper to cook one meal that everyone can eat.”

And canapés?

“Canapés are great and they don’t have to be fiddly or expensive,” says Tristan. “Think of little things you can serve on toast. Or maybe try just a chicory leaf with a bit of pear, honey and blue cheese.”

“Another great one is jazzing up some shop-bought hummus with a drizzle of oil, paprika and shallots – then just let people think you’ve made it yourself.”

Check out Tristan’s recipe for zero waste broccoli stalk bhajis below…

It’s true that we’re all trying to be a bit more mindful with our money, but when it comes to hosting, asking people to pitch in is a cost-effective way of making sure your gathering is well catered for.

“Pot lucks are huge money savers,” says Tanya. “The idea is that you ask everyone to bring one dish and then you have a feast. Plus, it’s a sure way to save the pennies while trying varied cuisine.

“Ensure the dishes are within your guests’ budgets and cooking abilities, be clear with your instructions and delegate where necessary. I usually create a shared link or WhatsApp group to track what everyone is bringing. Ensure you plan ahead or you may just end up with 10 dishes of macaroni and cheese.

“I love the ‘colour food challenge’ where everyone is assigned a colour and they have to bring food/snacks that resemble it. It’s a great way to have fun, get creative and also spread out the costs between you and your guests.”

Learn how to fold your napkins like a pro with this hosting home hack from Tanya…

Don’t let rising energy costs put you off inviting friends over. There are many smart ways to host a party that won’t send your bills through the roof.

“Be thoughtful about the number of times you use your oven,” says Tristan. “If you’re going to use the oven, work out what else you can use it for. For example, if you have veggies to roast and a chicken, then do them at the same time.

“Another tip: if the recipe says 40 minutes, switch the oven off at 30 minutes and the residual heat will keep it cooking for up to another 30 minutes which will save you a packet on your bills.”

Tanya adds: “Luckily, more guests means more naturally transmitted heat. However, if you are worried about exhausting your energy bill, candles are your best bet. Not only do they use zero energy, but they also provide a warm flickering ambience.”

Also, Tristan suggests that not cooking at all can be an option if you don’t want to use up too much energy.

“Consider cold foods to help save energy. Charcuterie platters or something like a delicious cold salad can be just as worthwhile as something cooked. Another tip is to leave your white wines and beers outside to avoid exhausting your fridge – the January chill will ensure they stay lovely and cold.”

Here’s a great energy saving home hack from Tristan…