Spending all summer entertaining is fun, but the costs can add up quickly. Before you know it, you’ll be blowing your monthly food budget if you’re throwing a Mexican Fiesta or Lobster Themed Dinner Party every weekend. That’s where the budget-friendly potluck comes in. Are you attending a potluck soon? Here’s how to be a good potluck attendee.

Ask about what you should bring.

If dishes haven’t been delegated out to attendees, ask the host what you should bring. If your host gives you a specific request, be sure to stick with it! There’s nothing worse than a potluck with too many appetizers and not enough desserts! If you’re given the freedom to bring whatever you want, bring something that you’ve made before that is easy to transport and serve. If you’re on a special diet, a potluck is a great way to bring a dish you know you can eat.

Be on time.

This runs true for attending any event! Showing up on time is not only polite to the host, but it will make the potluck go off without a hitch!

Label the dish. 

Labelling your dish will help guests decide whether they can eat it and will stop people asking “What is this?”. Be sure to mention if it’s gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian!

Have the dish ready to go.

Be sure to bring your dish to the potluck ready to serve. Don’t assume there will be space in the fridge or oven to heat it up, because you might be out of luck. Don’t forget to bring serving utensils as well!

Remember, a potluck is about spending time with friends and enjoying delicious food!