I want to hear the music!

Skip all this! Go to the bottom!

I have hosted gingerbread parties for many years. They are so much fun, and they really start the holidays off right.

As a 1^st time host, you will encounter some problems, but nothing insurmountable. The party will need all the same amenities as any other party you have hosted: i.e. invitations, drinks, and hors d'oeuvres. You should allow at least 4 hours for the event. Pick your party date (either after Halloween or soon after Thanksgiving works best), send your invitations, and follow through with personal contacts to confirm R.S.V.Ps. It is very important you know exactly how many people are coming.

Click on the photo for a more detailed view.

In your invitations, you should request that the person bring $10.00 worth of candy and decorating materials. If your guests have never made a gingerbread house, you should provide them with a list of different candies and materials (wafer cookies, cotton candy, pretzels, etc.); without a suggestion list, they just wouldn't know what to bring. You should also inform them that not only will their candy be used for their own house, but also shared with the other guests. Try to decorate your house during the party; however, if the demands of hosting do not allow you the opportunity, ask your guests to leave their leftover candy with you, so that you can complete your house later. Believe me, they will be happy to do it.

I have found that some first time invited guests do not r.s.v.p because they are suspicious of the party. They think they are being invited to a Tupperware or Jafra Home party. I found myself having to swear to my friends they were not committing to a sales party. You may find the same initial response from your friends as well.

I have tried hosting the party several different ways, and the best party occurs when I provide the pre-assembled houses. I bake and assemble one house for each guest. I also provide the icing and decorating tools. During the party I give suggestions, assistance, and encouragement.

Realize this is a very messy party! You should arrange your guests around a large table with a washable tablecloth. Remember the icing is oil free, so the tablecloth will wash up beautifully. Try to have your work area over a washable floor, any material, but carpeting. If you have no other choice, allow 3 days before you have the carpets steam cleaned.

Everyone loves the party. It permits me the opportunity to give a homemade gift to my special friends, have a good time with them before the craziness of Christmas sets in, and allows my friends to bring home their own personal masterpiece.

Click on the photos for a more detailed view.

Your party may even become a holiday tradition.