Buying in bulk can save money all the time, but it especially makes sense when you're entertaining. An example, TGIFriday's spinach dip sells for more than $4 a box at the supermarket. At BJ's Wholesale Club, a four-pack of boxes is $9.99. You'll pay more than $5 for a bag of 40 Tontino's pizza rolls at the supermarket, but at BJ's you get 140 for $10.
And, at BJ's, you can use coupons on top of the bulk savings.
Conshohocken Store Manager Curtis Hughes explains, "With any items that we sell multi-packs, you can use the manufacturers coupons, just with the quantities that you have. If it's two in a package, you can use two manufacturer's coupons. And also you can use our in-club coupons at the same time, so it's a kind of a double savings that way."
But you don't have to rely on prepared finger foods.
If you have a crock pot, take advantage of low prices on items like ground beef or chuck and make a big pot of chili or stew.
And don't be afraid to ask guests to chip in.
One idea is for you as the host to supply crackers, chips and cut fresh vegetables. Then, ask each of your guests to bring their favorite dip to share.
Or, run with the Super Bowl theme and ask your guests to bring a crock pot full of their favorite SOUP to share.
Paper goods are also less expensive at wholesale clubs, and since they don't go bad, whatever you don't use you can save for your next big event.
Though, if you don't mind the work, it's even less expensive to use real dishes.
Click here for a free one-day pass to BJ's.
Here are links to some websites that have additional great money-saving Super Bowl party ideas:
A Thrifty Mom
Yahoo Frugal Super Bowl recipes
Mommy Savers
Home Goes Strong
