Christmas Cookie Exhange Party

This past year I hosted a Christmas 'cookie exchange party' for our neighbourhood. It was a first for all of us, so there were some minor hiccups... but now I know what to expect and correct for next time.

If you want to host your own cookie exchange party, here's the best way to go about it.

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Set a date.

Choose a date far enough in advance so people can make plans and pencil the party onto their calendars. I gave people about 2 months notice since I know how fast the Christmas season calendar can get filled up. Sunday afternoons are best since "dad" can stay home with the kids while you get out and socialize with other grown-ups.
*Mine was held on Sunday December 19th, from 2pm - 4pm. since I did a bit of research and figured that was the best time for everyone who could attend. This way they could also have LOTS of cookies around for their own entertaining for the holidays.

Decide on a location.

Will you be hosting the party at your house or will you all be meeting at a different location?

Set your 'rules'.

For example... Girls only, no children, ugly Christmas sweater required, etc.
Mine was open to whoever wanted to show. Some people brought their kids.

Food.

Will you be having tea/coffee & cookies only? Will you make it a potluck? Buffet?  Appetizers? Totally up to you.

How Many Cookies?
Anywhere from 3-4 per guest to many dozens. Your call. 

This is how I did it:
*All cookies must be homemade
*Cookies need to be pre-packaged in 1 dozen quantities for each guest
*Please attach recipe to your cookie packages
*Please remember to bring a bag or box so you can easily
carry your cookie haul back home!
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I found the easiest way to keep track of everything was to line them all up on the counter in my kitchen. Everyone went through by the end of the party and took one bag of each.

It was a nice reason to use my Christmas dishes more than once in the season too!

I made shortbread cookies and put them in freezer bags, then tied them with red and green ribbon.
I Attached the recipe onto the ribbon.

All in all I'm pretty sure all the Ladies had a nice afternoon away from the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping and holiday stress for a couple of hours.

Here's my invitation:

I will be doing it again this year,
and I know now what changes to make.
I can't wait!

-Courtney