I pay for Costco's $120 executive membership. Here are 6 things I buy to host the best parties and dinners. (2024)

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Despite its cheap price, Kirkland Signature wine has yet to disappoint me.

The first time we ever served Costco wine at a party, I made my husband decant it. Transferring wine to another bottle can result in better flavors, but I also didn't want my guests to see the Kirkland Signature label.

However, I'm no longer embarrassed about serving the bargain wine because I know it's good.

If someone wants to turn up their nose at my wine because I paid $15 for a 3-liter box of it, they probably don't belong at my house anyway.

My local Costco has a wide variety of wine available, but I typically buy Kirkland Signature cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, and prosecco for parties.

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I cook Kirkland Signature meat for a variety of events.

Kirkland Signature New York strip steaks can be pricey at $12 per pound, but serving them to guests is way cheaper than treating everyone to dinner at a steak house.

The steaks are naturally tender and need very little prep, making them great for a smaller gathering or special-occasion meal.

If I'm feeding more than a dozen people, I usually get brisket or pork roasts instead, which Costco also has for reasonable prices.

These larger cuts of meat work great in a smoker and can feed a larger crowd. I've never been disappointed in their quality, either.

We also stock up on the Kirkland Signature beef hot dogs. They're great to throw on the grill when entertaining — and I can make them for our kids as a quick dinner when they have sports practices.

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When I don't want to cook for a group, I turn to Kirkland Signature premade meals.

Although I love to cook and entertain, the two don't go hand-in-hand for me. When I have a group of people over, I need something easy to prepare.

So sometimes I turn to Kirkland Signature premade meals. Offerings vary by location and season, but I've seen dishes like enchilada bakes, lasagna, wraps, and salads.

One of my favorites is Costco's chicken pot pie, which is typically available in the fall and winter. I used to joke I loved it so much I'd plan a party just to have an excuse to get one. However, now we have teens with appetites big enough for us to have one for dinner with minimal leftovers.

The premade pie serves about 12 people and is easy for parties because of its no-fuss prep — just pop it in the oven to bake before serving.

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Charcuterie-board shopping is super easy at Costco.

Charcuterie boards are popular because they're easy and give people options. Plus, who doesn't love some good cheese?

Costco has tons of options, whether I'm feeling adventurous and want to wow my guests with gourmet fromage or opt for more basic squares of cheddar and salami.

If I really want to cut down on my party prep time, I'll buy the mozzarella sticks wrapped in salami or prosciutto I often see at Costco and just throw them on a plate.

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Costco's freshly baked and premade desserts are both delicious.

Whether I'm celebrating a birthday or just want a simple-to-serve dessert, Costco's cakes and desserts never let me down.

The chain typically has a wide selection of premade cakes, plus custom ones can be ordered at least 24 hours in advance. The flavors and fillings aren't usually fancy — basic chocolate and vanilla — but the cakes are consistently delicious.

Plus, the bakery can score the cakes upon request, making them easier to cut evenly.

For a breakfast or brunch spread, I'll head to the bakery to grab a large flat of croissants or muffins — they're as high quality as the cakes.

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I decorate my events with floral arrangements made from Costco flowers.

While others were making sourdough during the coronavirus pandemic, I started creating fancy floral arrangements for Tuesday dinners. Now, I make them for my parties.

I typically buy a couple of bouquets to mix together and trim the stems to fit whatever container I want to use for my arrangement.

At Costco, I can typically get a nice mixed bouquet for $10 and roses for a little more.

Click to keep reading Costco diaries like this one.