Chocolate Party Game: Chocolate Taste Test with Free Printable Taste Test Scorecard

Box of Chocolates

Life is like a box of chocolate-- you never know what you'll get... until you try it, right? Well here's the perfect game for your next Chocolate Party, Sweet Treats Party, or even Valentines Party, a Chocolate Taste Test Game. I've included free printable score cards perfect for getting guests ready to play.

Chocolate Taste Test Game
Here are 3 variations on the chocolate taste test game; one that is relatively simple (for those guests with possibly a little less discerning tastes, just love candy) to more sophisticated (for the real chocolate aficionado crowd.) Here are the details.

Guess Which Chocolate Candy Bar Taste Test
1. Print out the free Chocolate Taste test score cards below, and have one for each guest.
2. Buy 10 different types of chocolate candy bars. For instance, Hershey's milk chocolate, Twix Bar, Milky Way, Snickers, KitKat, Almond Joy, etc.) Break the candy bars into bite size pieces. Put pieces of one type of candy bar on a tray, then create a tray for all your samples.
3. At the party, have each guest take a score card and a pen, and sit down. Have them all close their eyes, and pass out a candy from one tray. After they've eaten it, have them open their eyes and write down which candy bar they think it is. (Note: make sure they close their eyes before eating the piece, since some candy bars can be recognized just by their shape.)
4. Repeat for each candy bar.
5. At the end of the game, have guests score their cards to find out which ones they got right and which ones were wrong.
6. Winner could receive all 10 different candy bars (uneaten, of course!)

Guess the Flavor in the Chocolate Box
We've all done it before, taken a big bite from a chocolate in a candy box, and then put it back... what was inside actually? Who knows! Well, this variation on the taste test can be a lot of fun, and have folks saying their "oohs and ahhs" or "eeeuuus" very loudly!
1. Print out the free Chocolate Taste test score cards below, and have one for each guest.
2. Buy several boxes of chocolates. For instance a box of See's Candy chocolates. Make sure the boxes are the same "style" in that they have all the same types of candies.
3. Put the same type of chocolate from each box on it's own tray. (You should end up with 10 trays, each with the same type of chocolate candy on it.)
4. Hand out the scorecards, and start passing the trays one at a time. Have folks write down what they think it is... cherry filling? peach filling? mocha? carmel? pure chocolate? etc. Have them rank the candy-- good or bad.
5. In the end, tally up all the best tasting candies.

Chocolate Aficionado Taste Test
This is a version for a slightly more sophisticated crowd. Instead of varying candy bars, only serve different chocolates-- from milk chocolate, to semi-sweet, to dark, to white. Here's more details...
1. Print out the free Chocolate Taste test score cards below, and have one for each guest.
2. Buy 10 different types of chocolate. For instance, different brands (Hersheys, Ghiradelli, etc.) and different flavors (dark, semi-sweet, milk chocolate, etc.)
3. Before the party, break chocolates and put each type on it's own tray.
4. At party, give guests a few hints on rating chocolate-- smooth/creaminess, bitter/sweet, texture, after taste, "bite" or crunch vs. waxiness, etc.
5. Hand out a score card for each guest, and start serving trays one at a time. Have guests right comments, and/or even rank (1-10, %, or A-F)
6. At the end, compare notes!

Chocolate Taste Test Printable Scorecard

Below is the perfect score card for your Chocolate Taste Test. Just select the link, print out, cut out and you're ready to play!

Free Printable Chocolate Taste Test Score Card by B.Nute productions

Instructions to Make Your Score Cards
1. Select the above image and print out on paper.
2. Cut out scorecards.
3. Hand out at party and eat chocolate!!

Printable items are copyright protected, and provided free of charge by B.Nute productions for personal use only. B.Nute's printables can not be sold, altered, or provided for download on any other site. For questions or inquiries, please contact B.Nute productions.

Free Printable Construction Party Menu Cards

Free Printable Construction Party Menu Cards from B.Nute productions

Your Construction Party is about to break ground-- now you need a plan to what food and drinks to serve. How about a "Build Your Own" buffet, perfect for all your construction workers at the party!

There are many different types of "Build Your Own" food items. Here are just a few along with some example items for each to help you get constructing that perfect menu!

Main Course "Build Your Own" Menu Ideas

• Build Your Own Sandwich - bread, lunch meat, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, mustard, mayo, etc.
• Build Your Own Taco/Burrito - tortilla or taco shell, taco meat or chicken, bell peppers, tomatoes, salsa, cheese, beans
• Build Your Own Pita - pita bread, hummus, falafel, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, onions
• Build Your Own Salad - lettuce, tomatoes, bell peppers, celery, carrots, croutons, salad dressing
• Build Your Own Nachos - chips, salsa, hot peppers, ground beef, tomatoes, avocados, black olives, cheese sauce
• Build Your Own Snack Mix - pretzels, cereals, peanuts, M&M's, corn chips, cheese puffs, etc.

Dessert "Build Your Own" Menu Ideas

• Build Your Own Sundae - ice cream, chocolate sauce, carmel sauce, chocolate chips, sprinkles, nuts, cherries, whip cream, etc.
• Build Your Own Cookie - large cookie, frosting, sprinkles, small candies, chocolate chips, ice cream, whip cream, etc.
• Build Your Own Brownie - large cookie, chocolate sauce, carmel sauce, sprinkles, small candies, chocolate chips, ice cream, whip cream, etc.
• Build Your Own Pudding - chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, white chocolate chips, sprinkles, crushed Oreos, crushed graham crackers, mini marshmallows, etc.
• Build Your Own Float - vanilla ice cream, root beer, cola, cherry soda, orange soda, grape soda
• Build Your Own Snowcone - shaved ice, various syrup flavors

Beverage "Build Your Own" Menu Ideas

• Build Your Own Italian Soda - plain Italian soda, various flavors
• Build Your Own Hot Chocolate - hot chocolate, marshmallows, chocolate chips, whip cream, etc.
• Build Your Own Juice Blend - orange juice, pineapple juice, cranberry juice, apple juice, grenadine, etc.
• Build Your Own Lemonade - lemonade, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, etc.
• Build Your Own Coffee - coffee, sugar, various creme flavors, milk, shaved chocolate, cinnamon, carmel sauce, etc.

Free Printable Construction Party Menu Card and Item Cards

Free Printable Construction Party Menu Card and Item Cards from B.Nute productions

Tips for Creating and Printing Your Menu Cards

If you'd like to have your menu typed on to the menu card, just follow these few steps:
1. Select link above. Go to your browsers File Menu and select "Save As". Save image to your local computer.
2. Open an image editing program, and use the type tool to add your menu items. Now print out file, and cut cards.
3. Or, if you prefer, open a desktop publishing program, import the saved jpg, and add type on top of the menu card. Now print out file, and cut cards.
4. Another option is to first print out the menu card (blank) and cut out each card (the menu card is 3.5x7 in size, the item cards are 3.5"x2.25".) In MS Word, create a narrow 3.5"x7" document. Leave a large margin at the top and on left and right to accommodate for graphic "tape". Type menu. Feed printed menu card through your printer and print out the MS Word document on top. Repeat the same but with a 3.5"x2.25" document for each menu card.
5. Lastly, a hand written menu is an easy option as well! Just select link above, print out on card stock and hand write menu and items!

Printable items are copyright protected, and provided free of charge by B.Nute productions for personal use only. B.Nute's printables can not be sold, altered, or provided for download on any other site. For questions or inquiries, please contact B.Nute productions.

Sweet Treats Party Ideas: Decorations, Games, Art, Free Coloring Pages and More...

Sweet Treats Personalized Party Invitation by B.Nute productions on Etsy

Who wouldn’t want to go to a party filled with sweet treats – cupcakes, candies, lollipops, cakes and more! Host a party inspired by an old time sweet shoppe or soda fountain for plenty of yummy memories! Below are a whole bunch of delicious ideas, perfect for your Sweet Treats Party! Yum, yum!

Inspiration Board

The Decorations
If it’s pink or white, it’s a sure bet it will fit into this party. Start with the basics – crepe paper and balloons. From the center of the ceiling and drape the crepe paper to the edges of the room. This will create a “big top” or tent effect. Next, hang the balloons against the walls of the room, on the backs of chairs and any other place that seems appropriate. The more the merrier.

Jars of Candies and Treats
Pull out all your clear glass vases, cups and apocathery jars (if you have any) and fill with candies. Colorful gumdrops, peppermints, and hard candies look great. Tiered serving tray filled with cupcakes and treats will also look festive and be a hit to eat!

A menu from one of my favorite old fashioned soda fountains, The Sugar Bowl in Scottsdale Arizona

Soda Fountain Menu Board
Decorate a large white poster board to look like a menu board  or menu from an old fashioned soda shoppe. Make sure to add your food items and treats to the menu! Hang on a wall where everyone can see! Check out these fun retro inspired menus at Retro Planet.

Candy Garland
There are plenty of resources online to buy pretend candy garland. This can be great to string up along a mantle, or window or anywhere the party will be! If you’re ambitious, try making one your self! By many bags of individually wrapped candies and either tie each end of the candies together with small pieces of string or use a twist tie. This is great decoration, as well as a great treat for later!

Music and Ambience
Making a CD of your child’s favorite music is always a hit, but you could also add some ambience with the “soda fountain” type music. Tunes from the 1950’s will be a great addition to the look and feel of the party


Food and Drink
Obviously sweets and treats will dominate the menu, but if you want to add some healthier options, here’s some ideas:

• Jelly Roll Sandwiches – Could just be jelly and bread rolled up, or add some peanut butter, almond butter or Nutella for a little dash of protein.
• Pinwheel “Aram” Sandwiches – Roll cream cheese, ham and turkey slices in a large tortilla or flat bread. Slice into small cylinders, to get the pinwheel effect.
• Veggie Sticks in a Jelly Jar – It may not be candy sticks, but put out a couple of sauces for dipping, and possibly the veggies will pass as colorful treats.
• Fruit Lollipops – Sear small sliced or balled fruit pieces to colored toothpicks for an easy, fun fruit lollipop.

Drinks

• Stock up on some fun flavored cream sods or fruit juices for that soda-fountain look. Some brands have great looking, “retro” labels that will add to the look of the party. Place the bottles in a large tin and fill with ice.
• Pink Lemonade in a Pitcher – Pink lemonade will fit right in with the color scheme and be a refreshing option for the younger folks. To cut down on sugar, some brands offer sugar free mixes.

Arts  and Crafts
Play Dough Candy Factory
Set up a table and let kids young and old make pretend candies and cupcakes from play dough. There are many kits available to buy that have molds to look just like treats. Make sure to get plenty of different colors, but don’t expect them to stay pristine for long!

Jellybean Frame
Buy some inexpensive plain frames at your local craft store and have kids glue jelly beans to the front. When done, use a sealant like Modge Podge to make the jelly beans last for a long time. This is a perfect activity that also can be the “goodie bag gift” at the end of the party!

Candy Necklace
Set out some bowl of different colored life savers. Cut pieces of string to be the length of a necklace for a child. Now, have the kids make their own jewelry treat! They’re fun to wear and even better to eat.

Coloring Pages
Check out B.Nute productions’ Sweet Treats Coloring pages for some guaranteed fun! Just set up a table, put out some crayons, markers, glitter glue and whatever else suits your fancy and let the kids color away! There’s “Make Your Own Sundae,” “Decorate the  Cake,” and “Color the Candy” coloring pages, perfect to print out for the party. See below for instructions:

Make Your Own Sundae Coloring Page by B.Nute productions

Decorate the Cake Coloring Page by B.Nute productions

Color the Candy Coloring Page by B.Nute productions

 Instructions for Printing Coloring Pages
1. Select link or image above.
2. Print image from browser. Make sure to set printer to landscape mode. Coloring page is 8.5x11.
3. Now it's time to color!
(Note: Free printable coloring pages are copyright protected and for personal use only.)

Games
Guess the Number of Candies
Those great decorations on your table could also become a good game. Have kids guess how many candies are in each jar. Closest one wins a prize. For little ones, keep the number or candies in the jar to a minimum.

I Spy in the Candy Jar
As an alternative to guessing the number of candies, you can also do an “I Spy” game. Inside your lovely jars of candies, put a few random small plastic toys. Have kids see if they can find all the toys in the candy jars just by looking at the jars!

Example Image of a Candyland Game Board

Candyland-Inspired Obstacle Course
Inspired by the popular children’s board game, create a Candyland obstacle course in your yard or house. Create stations around the space, for instance Gumdrop Alley, Peppermint Hills, Lollipop Lane, Fruit Chew Fields, etc. Write these names on a piece of poster board so kids can see each location. Have a box or bag of matching candy on a chair at each station.

Now, separate the group into two teams. Each person needs to pick up one candy from each station, then return to his team to tag the next team member to go.

This game will give the kids a chance to run around as well as stash a couple candies for their goodie bags!


Entertainment Ideas

Cookie Decorating
Set up an area with frosting, cookie decorations and let the kids make their own personal treat. To save time, store bought sugar cookies are a perfect alternative to home made, and can taste great too!

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Depending on the age of the guest (and length of your party), you could let the kids watch some or all of this candy-filled movie, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. You could also play this movie on the TV with the sound off as an ambient feature!


Treats  and Goodie Bags
Treats Galore
This party is pretty much one big treat, but there’s always room for more!
Here are some ideas to really make this party sweet!
• Make Your Own Sundae Bar – Set up bowls of all types of treats: sprinkles, chocolate chips, mini-marshmallows, fruit chews, crushed candies, banana slices, strawberries pieces, etc. Have vanilla and chocolate ice cream handy and let the kids make a sundae! Don’t forget the fudge and carmel sauce!
• Chocolate Dip – Set out some cut up fruit, a bowl of chocolate sauce, and some toothpicks and let the kids dip away. For an older crowd, you could make this Chocolate fondue instead of just chocolate sauce.

Goodie Bag Ideas
Many of the ideas in this guide can produce instant goodie bag treats (i.e., decorated frame, play dough candies, etc.), but here’s some more ideas if needed:
• candy scented lip balm
• candy necklaces
• candy shaped eraser (Note: this would not be advisable for small tots, since they might try to eat them!)
• extra large lollipops, like Hammond’s lollipops

*The* List of Party Themes

Close Up of B.Nute productions "Here Comes the Party" invitation

In honor of kids heading back to school, I thought this week I'd dedicate my blog posts to lists, you know the kind... like a back to school list of supplies, but these lists are all party focused, of course! I just love lists. I hope these are helpful in the future for you!

Today's list is of party themes. This is to help all those up late at night wondering what on earth they will do for their child's next birthday? I'm sure something below will catch your eye!

Theme

20's Flapper Girl Party

3 Little Piggies Party

40's Big Band Party

50's Beebop Sock Hop Party

50's Soda Fountain Party

80's Glam Rock Party

African Safari Party

Alpine Skiing Party

Around the World Party

Art Party

Ballerina Party

Baseball Party

Basketball Party

Beach Party

Beehive Hairdo/Retro Party

Big Apple Party

Big Game Party

Big Hair Rocker Party

Board Game Party

Bon Voyage (luggage, map, hotels)

Bon Voyage (roadtrip)

Bowling

Broadway Baby Party

Butterfly Party

Camp Out

Carnival

Carousel Party

Casino

Champagne Tasting Party

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Party

Charlottes Web Party

Cheese and Wine Party

Cherry Party

Chinese Party

Chocolate Party

Chronicles of Narnia Party

Cinderella Party

Circus Animals Party

Circus Big Top Party

Circus Billboard Party

Circus Parade party

Clambake/Lobster Boil/Crab Feast

Construction/Builder Party

County Fair Party

Cowgirl Party

Cupcake Party

Destination Party

Dinosaur Party

Disco/Dance Party

Doll Party

Dragon

Dragonflies Party

Egyptian Party

Fairy: Flower Fairy

Fairy: Glitter Fairy Princess

Fairy: Modern Fairy

Fairy: Woodland Fairy

Farm Party

Fashion Show Party

Fiesta

Firehouse Party

Fondue Party

Football Party

Fortune Teller (Palm Reading, Tarot Card) Party

Golf Party

Grand Prix Race Car Party

Gypsy Party

Hardy Boys

HipHop Party

Hockey Party

Hollywood Party

Honey Bee Party

Hula Girl Party

Ice Skating Party

India Party

Indiana Jones Party

Insect/Bug Party

Italian Party

Jazzy Jazz Party

Jumpy House Party

Jungle Party

Karate Party

Kite Party

Knight and Dragon

Lady Bug Party

Let is Snow Winter Party

Lil'Gardener Party

Ma Petite (Toile) party

Mad Hatter Party

Mad Scientist Party

Magic Party

Makeover/Model Party

Masquerade Party

Memphis Blues Party

Mermaid

Mini Golf Party

Mobster/Mafia/Gangster Party

Monkey Party

Moroccan Party

Movie Party

Movie Star Party

Mustache Bash

Nancy Drew

Nifty 50's Party

Nursery Rhyme Party

Olympic Party

Paper Lantern Party

Paperdoll Party

Paris Party

Party Hats Party

Perfume Party

Pinball Party

Pirate party

Playtime Party

Polka Dot Party

Pool Party

Pretty Posies Garden Party

Princess and Knight Royal Party

Princess Fairy Tale Party

Princess: Egyptian Princess Party

Princess: Indian Princess Party

Robin Hood Party

Robot Party

Rock Climbing Party

Rock Star - Guitar Party

Rock Star - Singer Party

Sailboat Party

Shark Party

Sherlock Holmes Party

Skateboarding Party

Sledding/Tubing Party

Sleepover Party

Snow White Party

Snowboarding Party

Soccer Party

South of France Party

Spa Party

Space/Rocket Party

Spy Party

Star Wars Party

Stargazing Party

Summer BBQ

Summer Camp

Summer of Love Hippie Party

Superhero Party

Surfer Party

Sweet 16

Sweet Treas Party

Tailgate Party

Tatoo Party

Teapot/Teacup Tea Party

Tennis Party

The Dish, Spoon, Cow, Moon Party

Tiki Party

Toy Shop Party

Train (ticket) Party

Truck Party

Under the Sea Party

Video Game Party

Vineyard Party

Wakeboarding Party

Water Park Party (sprinklers)

Western "Wanted" Showdown Party

Western Round Up Party

Wind in the Willows Party

Wine Tasting Party

Wizard

Wizard of Oz Party

Woodland Party

Zodiac Party

Zoo Party This list will be posted in a permanent location on my website, with categorization and all! I'll be sure to let you know when it's there. If I've missed some themes, (which I'm sure I have) please let me know so I can add them to the list! Happy Party Planning!

A Little Romance Valentine Party: Decoration Ideas

A Little Romance Party Inspiration Board by B.Nute productions

Romantics rejoice! It's that time of year... Valentines is coming and it's time to celebrate. For all you vintage-loving romantics, this party is perfect for you. An afternoon Valentine Tea, a Valentine Chocolate Party, a Romantics Wedding Shower, this A Little Romance Party is perfect!

Decoration Ideas

Vintage Valentine Imagery - This party is the perfect place to display all that vintage Valentine imagery you've been collecting! Put the imagery in fancy frames on the buffet, or one at each person's place at the table. Use as gift tags (more on this in a later post!) or wrappers for a chocolate treat... the look will be perfect for this party.

Roses and Peonies - Fresh flowers are definitely a must around your party space. Roses are, of course, "the" Valentine flower, but also look into a bouquet of Peonies. Their ruffled petals are soft and gorgeous, and quite romantic!

Love Letters and Old Postcards - Who wouldn't want to receive a sweet love letter on Valentines? Use these old treasures around your party for a great accent. Spread out old postcards across the buffet table or as a center runner on the dining table; hang postcards from an old fashioned wire postcard display; or frame a few and put on the buffet.

Ruffles and Lace - This ruffled pillow in the picture above is dreamy! Add a couple like these to your couch for a soft look. Find some old lace at a vintage store, and drape around your chandelier. Or, if you can sew, add lace accents to napkins or a table cloth.

Cupids - I must admit, cupids can be quite trite... and frankly, there are many awful cupid images out on the market! The key is to find one that has a vintage feel. An old cupid stone statue surrounded by flowers and other vintage goodies could be a great centerpiece for the buffet or party table.

Blumchen.com Victorian Valentine Party Favors

Treat Cones and Victorian Goodies - Of course, this party is aching for Victorian Valentine goodies as well! Fussie Mussie posie baskets, treat cones, candy baskets, and more. Blumchen.com is a perfect source for these Victorian items!

A Little Romance Valentine (or Wedding Shower) Party Invitation by B.Nute productions

A Little Romance Party Invitations and Matching Decorations
Of course, don't forget matching A Little Romance Party invitations decorations from B.Nute productions! Hand drawn backgrounds, collaged vintage ephemera, and a soft romantic feel, these paper goods are the perfect look for this romantic party.

A Little Romance "Be Mine" Banner by B.Nute productions

That's all the romance for today... much more ahead this week!

How to Throw a Holiday Cookie Exchange Party - Decoration Ideas, Printable Recipe Card and More

Holiday Gingerbread Cookie Exchange Party Invitation by B.Nute productions on Etsy

Are you looking for a way to spend a little quality time with your friends this holiday? Want to host a party, but worried it will be a lot of work. Well, stop fretting. Here's a party perfect for you -- host a Holiday Cookie Exchange Party where much of the work is done by all the guests, since everyone brings cookies to share! Here are more details on how to throw a cookie exchange party...

First off, a little inspiration-- cookies, of course!

Give Your Guests a Cookie Theme
The first thing that needs to happen for a Cookie Exchange party is to let each guest know that they need to bring some cookies to the party, of course! Have them bring about twice as many cookies as guests, so when making their cookie box to take home, each guest can take approximately 2 of each kind. You can tell your guests to make whatever type of cookie they like, or you can give them a theme. Here are some cookie theme ideas:

• Make an old family favorite cookie recipe - perhaps from mom, grandma, or great-grandmother. Do some research on this one, and have fun!
• Make a "retro" cookie that you remember when you were a child, or perhaps your mom used to make... you know the kinds, the cookies with potato chips added for extra crunch, or how about Hay Stacks with chow mein noodles!
• Make a traditional cookie recipe from another country - you could assign your guests a country, or have them pick their own.
• Make a kids favorite cookie recipe- Good ol'chocolate chip or rice krispy treats are always tasty!
• Make only chocolate delights - This could be fudge, or chocolate dipped oreos... any recipe with chocolate will do!

Tell a Story

We all have stories to tell about cooking-- with mom, with grandmom, or perhaps with your babysitter when you were young! As an extra to the evening, ask your guests to not only bring cookies to share, but also have them prepare a story to tell why they made that specific recipe. When all are gathered, go around the room and have everyone share their stories. The stories may be funny, or touching... and it's sure to give a little insight or glimpse into the lives of the other guests.

Sample and Grade

Once the party has begun, and folks have had a chance to mingle a bit... gather everyone around the table or tables with cookies and let the sampling begin! You could have a taste test, where everyone picks their favorite cookie. Perhaps the winner could receive a prize, like a new cookie tray, or apron!

Recipe Swap

Folks will love sampling all the different cookies, and will inevitably want the recipe. Make sure to have everyone bring a copy of the recipe to the party, so they can swap after tasting. Set out a stack of blank recipe cards and pens, and let folks copy the recipe next to the cookie they like. When they leave, they may have a stack of new recipes to try at home.

Fill Your Own Cookie Box

One of the best parts of this party is everyone leaves with a delicious goodie bag! Have "take out" bags or cookie boxes ready for folks to load up and take home. I love these cookie boxes from Candy Soiree... so vintage and fun! Add some colorful bakers twine for them to wrap the box once it's full, for an old fashioned touch!

More Activity Ideas at Your Cookie Exchange Party

Still want more ideas of things to do at your cookie exchange party? Here are a few more fun activities friends will love to do!

Decorate an Apron

Head over to your local craft store and pick up a bunch of plain canvas aprons for the guests to decorate. Set out on a table a couple glue guns and loads of trimmings: pom pons, beads, ric rac, etc. Also have available fabric swatches (possibly to make patches), and fabric paints for decorating the apron. Have the cookie theme be inspiration for the designs that can be made-- or perhaps fill the apron with images of all things good to eat-- cookies, cupcakes, pies and more! Give a prize to the best decorated apron with a gift certificate at a cooking store, or possibly a dinner out (so the new apron can have a "rest")!

Make Cookie Cutter Ornaments

An easy project, with a great final look-- set out many sheets of decorative papers, and holiday cookie ornaments. Holding the ornament in place, trace the outside edge. Use scissors to cut out the paper in the cookie cutter shape. With a glue gun, attach the paper to one side of the ornament. Now dab a little glue on the top and add a ribbon to hang. A great addition to your holiday tree. Here are more detailed instructions for making a cookie cutter ornament from Martha Stewart.

Milk and Cookies Party Invitations and Ideas

Milk and Cookies Party Invitations by B.Nute productions

A Milk and Cookies party is such a wonderful theme. I mean, who doesn't love a home made cookie and a tall glass of milk? What makes this theme also so great is it can be so versatile - you can throw a milk and cookies party for just about anyone, any age, and at any time of year!

A Milk and Cookies theme can be used for:

Inspired by Vintage Candy Boxes: A Chocolate Party

Confectionery Dream Pinterest Inspiration Board and Chocolate Party Invitation on Etsy by B.Nute productions

This chocolate inspiration goes will beyond just Valentines... how about a Chocolate Baby Shower, Bridal Shower or Birthday Party?! Inspired by beautiful vintage chocolate and candy boxes, check out my latest Chocolate Party Invitation in my shop. Yum, yum!

Image Credits: See Confectionery Dream Board on Pinterest.

How to Throw a Cookie Decorating Party

Holiday Cookie Decorating Party by B.Nute productions on Etsy

Kids love decorating cookies all year round! Whether it's the Holidays, Valentines, Easter or anytime of year, a Cookie Decorating Party is a great gathering, and surprisingly easy to coordinate too! Here are some simple "how to's" on having a Cookie Decorating Party, sure to please all ages!

Cookie Decorating Party Inspiration

To Pot Luck or Not, That is the Question!

Depending on the size of your gathering, and the occasion (i.e., birthday party, or holiday cookie party), you may want to do the party all by yourself or have help. I threw this party for my daughter's preschool class, and went the pot-luck route. It was quite a success! 

If you're throwing a small gathering, it's easy to make a couple batches of sugar cookies the day before the party. You can also pick up pre-made cookies at your local grocery store. If you decide to go the pot-luck route, ask guests to bring undecorated cookies and a topping/decoration to share. Tell guests to keep it simple... they can make handmade cookies, or store bought... no need to stress, since really the fun part is the icing and toppings! 

It's All About the Decorations

The more decorations for the cookies the better. It's amazing how many toppings can actually fit on one cookie when tried! Here is a list of decorations for you to get (or have people bring):

• sprinkles (varied shapes and colors)
• silver balls
• red hots
• chocolate sprinkles
• colored sugar
• peppermint candies
• chocolate chips
• mini marshmallows
• M&M's, Skittles, and other small candies
• colored icing

Party Set Up

Set up some large folding tables with plastic table cloths. In the center of the table, put the decorations in bowls for easy reach. Make sure to spread the different types of decorations around so all can have access. Depending on the age of the guests, chairs for each person may be optional. Many little ones will prefer to stand as they decorate their treats.

Lots and Lots of Icing

You can either purchase pre-made icing, or make up a couple batches of simple icing in your blender. Set out paper bowls in the center of your decorating table with several spoons in each bowl. You can also color the icing, and set out smaller bowls with the varied colors.

Trays of Cookies and Packaging

It's helpful to have a large counter area or extra tables set up to put the decorated cookies sit while the icing hardens. After all the decorating is done, have a station set up for packaging up the treats. You can purchase some cookie boxes, or just paper plates and wax paper will do as well! 

Drink Ideas

Decorating cookies can be hard work! Depending on the time of year, make sure to have some drink options ready for your guests. Here are some beverage ideas for different seasons:

Holiday Cookie Decorating: Hot Cocoa, Peppermint Milkshakes, Mulled Wine (for adults)

Valentines Cookie Decorating:

Easter Cookie Decorating:

Cookie Decorating Birthday Party: Lemonade, Fruit Punch or Milk, of course!

Decoration Ideas for your Cookie Decorating Party

Here are a few decorating ideas to make your space ready for cookie-fun!

Cookie Cutters - Head to an antique store, or even buy new cookie cutters, and string them up with colorful ribbon to make a cookie cutter garland.

Cooking Utensils- Set out cooking utensils in a glass jar on a buffet table or drink table to add to the cooking charm of the party.

Paper Cookie Garland - Remember the crafts you used to do in elementary school? Make some cookie shape garland (stars, hearts, gingerbread men) to fit the theme of your cookie decorating party. Here are some links to some similar crafts:

• Gingerbread Man Garland
• Valentine Heart Garland

It's a Doll Sized Birthday Celebration! (Including Free Printable Banner and Goodie Bags)

It's a Party for the Dolls! (printable goodie bag from B.Nute productions)

There are some new party stylists in town! My daughter and her friend had fun yesterday putting together a party for the dolls! I created some free printable decorations and they embellished the rest. Here are shots from the party-- along with ideas for your child (and friends) to have throw their own party for their dolls.

Party for the Dolls in my Daughter's Bedroom (photo by B.Nute productions)

Above is a picture of the whole festive affair-- including the free printable banner and goodie bags that match the doll-sized invitations I posted yesterday. My daughter Natalie and her friend Erica set the scene in her bedroom. Of course, the party could be set in any room, or outdoors as well.

Party Hat for the Dolls (photo by B.Nute productions)

The girls made some party hats for the dolls to add to the festivities. They used colorful scrapbook paper and ribbon to tie it on the doll's head. Here's a great blog post on Make it Do with instructions and a template on making your own party hat for a doll.

Free Printable Doll-Sized Happy Birthday Banner from B.Nute productions

They hung the birthday banner on the wall behind the doll table. At the bottom of this post, you'll find the files to print your own doll-sized Happy Birthday banner.

Mini-Cookies for the Doll Party (photo by B.Nute productions)

A party is not complete without food, right? We made some mini-chocolate chip cookies for the festivities. I spooned out marble-sized dough to make the cookies the right size.

Free Printable Doll Sized Goodie Bags by B.Nute productions

Every party also needs goodie bags for the dolls! These bags (free printable and instructions on how to make below) can be filled with little treasures-- beads, tiny candies, and other fun items for the dolls.

Gifts for the Dolls! (photo by B.Nute productions)

Don't forget the gifts! The girls had fun looking around the house for small boxes to wrap and use as presents. If they had more time, they would have loved to make gifts for the dolls to put inside-- string beads for a doll bracelet, create a mini-birthday card, etc. The possibilities are endless.

So, on one of those days when all you hear is, "I'm bored" or perhaps it's your daughter's actual birthday, and she's looking for something to do, why not suggest putting on a doll party!

Free Printable Doll-Sized Party Banner & Goodie Bags

Banner

Free Printable Doll Sized Happy Birthday Banner (1 of 2 files) by B.Nute productions

Free Printable Doll Sized Happy Birthday Banner (2 of 2 files) by B.Nute productions

Instructions for Printing Your Doll Sized Party Banner
1. Select the link above (at bottom of each image), and print out the doll-sized banner on an 8.5" x 11" piece of paper. Use white card stock to add some weight to the pennants.
2. Cut out the pennants, and put a small hole in the top of each. String with ribbon and hang.

Goodie Bag
Below are instructions on making your mini-goodie bag.

How to Make a Doll-Sized Goodie Bag by B.Nute productions

Instructions for Printing and Making Your Doll Sized Goodie Bag
1. Select the link below (at bottom of goodie bag image), and print out the doll-sized bags on an 8.5" x 11" piece of paper. Cut out the design.
2. Turn the design over, and fold each side to make a center seam in the back. Tape the seam together.
3. Fold the bottom of the bag up about 1-2".
4. Open your bottom fold, and now fold each corner to the initial fold line.
5. Open up the bottom of the bag to see the inside, using your fold creases to guide you.
6. Fold each edge to the center to create the bottom of the bag. Use tape to secure it.
7. Your bag is now complete. Just open it up and fill it with goodies!

Free Printable Doll-Sized Goodie Bag by B.Nute productions

Free Printable Doll-Sized Goodie Bag by B.Nute productions

Printable items are copyright protected, and provided free of charge by B.Nute productions for personal use only. B.Nute's printables can not be sold, altered, or provided for download on any other site. For questions or inquiries, please contact B.Nute productions.

How to Throw a Craft Party

Craft Party Inspiration Board including
Valentine Craft Party Invitation by B.Nute productions

Whether you're young, old or somewher in between, a Craft Party is always a hit! Even your most "uncreative" friends (as they call themselves) will enjoy a couple hours of cutting, pasting, and decorating with good friends!

A Craft Party can be held anytime of the year you want to be creative with friends, but is especially good during holidays such as Valentines, Easter or Christmas. Here are some tips on how to throw your own Craft Party.

Guest List - Adults Only? Kids Only? Adults and Kids?
The first decision in throwing a Craft party is who do you want to come. A crafty morning, afternoon or evening with friends is a great way to relax and have some quality "girl" time. So many times we wish we had more time to sit down and make something by hand... now here's your chance.

On the other hand, your little artist may love to have a Craft/Artist Party for her birthday, say. This may be a daunting thought (visions of painted handprints covering your living room walls), but when planned carefully this party can definitely be a hit and kept under control. If the kids are very little (preschool or toddler age) it may be best to make sure a parent comes too, to enjoy craft making and help her little artist.

Once you've decided your guest list, this will help tailor the rest of the questions you need to decide to host your party.

Pick a Craft
Obviously the craft you choose to make should be geared towards your guests age and ability... but here are some suggestions on things to make:
Holiday Themed Crafts

Valentine Crafts

Valentines Day and card making go hand in hand together! Get out your doilies, hearts, red and pink paper, glitter and more, and get to work! Think up some fun extras to add to the mix, like fabric trims, ribbon, embroidery thread (for stitching on a card), old Valentine ephemera, playing cards (especially the Heart suit), and more.

Another crafty idea for Valentines is to make candy. There are many candy making kits available at craft stores; how about candy lollipops, chocolate hearts, or bonbons?

Easter Crafts

Family and friends will love a homemade Easter card. Similar to Valentine card making, find a bunch of extra embellishments for folks to put on their card. A great easter card is to simply start with an egg shape on the card, and then create several different designs in the egg using pens, glitter, fabrics, notions and more.

Easter is also a great time to decorate eggs of course. Whether you'd like a crafty afternoon of egg dying, or creating egg ornaments, friends will love this traditional Easter craft activity.

Halloween Crafts

Pumpkin carving parties, costume parties and more usually dominate this holiday, so throw a twist and host a Craft Halloween Party. Host it in early October, with the intention of creating Halloween decorations to use around your house, or give to friends as gifts. Make Halloween garlands, a wreath for the front door, or even decorate a canvas bag or two to give to your kids to use while trick or treating. There are so many great Halloween craft accessories available this time of year, I'm sure something at the craft store will catch your eye!

Christmas Crafts

Christmas is craft season. There are shelves full of crafty gift and card ideas for Christmas and the holidays at the library. Check out several of these books, and pick out your favorite activities to create at your Christmas Craft Party.

Adult Craft Party

UFO's

In the crafting world, a UFO is an UnFinished Object... you know the one... that wreath you started to make for your front door but never finished, or how about that mosaic table top collage that got started and never finished. This party is all about bringing those unfinished pieces back to life, and get them done!

Knitting

Knitting is a great way to gather friends and have some fun crafting and chatting. If you have beginner knitters, be sure to have either some "how to" books available, or if someone is an expert, have the help them get started. You can come up with a project (a simple scarf, perhaps), and provide supplies, or have friends bring their own projects and just have fun knitting together. The internet is a wealth of information on knitting circle ideas.

Paper Crafts

If you search paper crafts on the internet, I'm sure something will tickle your creative fancy! Pick a project or two, purchase some decorative papers, gather friends, and have fun!

Jewelry Making

Ask friends to bring a pound (or more?) of different types of beads. Now, at the party you will have your very own "jewelry making store"... with a plethora of bead choices to use!

Make it Pot Luck
A pot luck craft party is a great way to share the expense of all the crafting supplies. Have guests bring either their own supplies, or better yet, assign them an element of the craft, or their favorite items. Once all together, you will have a bounty of supplies to create the objects you desire!

The Set Up
A large table is essential for this party. Depending on the craft (messy, relatively clean) it may be necessary to cover the table with a plastic table cloth. Set out either a buffet of crafting supplies and/or set bowls of craft pieces in the middle of the table. Now it's time to create!

Something to Nibble and Sip
Be sure to have some nibbles to eat and something to drink. No need to get to elaborate with this, since the focus on the party is crafting! How about a mini-sweet treats table with coffee, hot cocoa and tea? If you're having a crafty morning, how about bagels with loads of fixin's and coffee. For a crafty evening, some savory appetizers, and wine will definitely please the crowd!