Have a fabulously frugal Cinco de Mayo

Hey everybody – despite what the outside thermometer is saying, we’re coming up on May! In my opinion, once we’re past April 30th, Mother Nature has no choice but to throw us some serious Springtime weather. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it. As much as I shudder at the usual Hallmark holidays, I’m ready to leap headfirst into any celebrations that get people into a warm weather state of mind. Cinco de Mayo to the rescue. This fabulously festive holiday has been the theme for mucho magnificent shindigs, and why not? The fun, the food, the colors, the music – we deserve it all.

Read on for money-saving tips that will have a great party ready to go, without breaking the wallet.

First things first – the food. Having attended multiple Cinco de Mayo parties, I’m shown time and again that the proof of a great gettogether is always in the food. This is no place for a deli tray, people! Get creative with a make-it-yourself taco bar. Your guests will love it, and when done right, they’re super easy and inexpensive to make. Start with some spicy ground beef, add shredded chicken, lots of salsa, tortilla shells and shredded cheese, add a couple of taco sauces, guacamole, some sour cream, and you’re set. Classic side dishes are beans, rice and chips, and be sure to get a colorful fruit salad in there too. Friends are going to want to bring something, so put them each onto a spicy dish or dessert of their choosing — later on you can do a casual contest to determine who brought the most authentic Mexican dish.

The Dishes and Décor – super simple. One trip to your local Dollar Store will have this locked up. Even with my detailed knowledge of Dollar Store inventory, I couldn’t help but be amazed at the quality and selection of this year’s perfect Cinco de Mayo dishes, decorations, even margarita glasses. Go with bold colors and fun designs — there’s no such thing as “over the top” color schemes when it comes to Cinco de Mayo decorating.

The Invitations – keep it super simple and go online. With the click of a button, you can send out dozens of colorful, eye catching invites, and when your friends and family respond with the click of a mouse, you’ll have everyone’s RSVP automatically inserted into your calendar, as well as any notes on what they’re going to bring! Saves time, postage, and serious hassle. You have to love modern technology, especially when it helps to pull off a great party.

The Music. As if I even need to say it, magnificent Mexican music is one of the biggest keys to a fabulous fiesta. Get Alexa on the case, or tell your friend with the iPod that he is now in charge of music. When the party date arrives, plug that iPod into your speakers, et voila! You’ve got hours of perfect Mexican music at the touch of a button.

Here’s to ushering in a beautifully warm month of May – Feliz Cinco de Mayo, everybody!

Kristen Hagopian is a Syndicated Radio Talk Show Host, Columnist and Author of Brilliant Frugal Living. She cohosts WCHE 1520’s Morning Show, and “Dad and Daughter Talk Real Estate” with local Keller Williams Realtor John Herreid Wednesdays at 3 p.m. (www.johnherreid. com). She was raised in Delaware County, and now resides in Chester County with her husband and kids. You can find her online at www. BrilliantFrugalLiving.com