1st Exchange - need support

[lostmymind]

;D
Have been asked to host my first cookie exchage for the mothers of my kid's montessori school Will be the 17th, 1pm-3or4pm at the school in the main recreation room. Invites will go out in a handout on the 27th in each kid's cubby as well as in the Monthly newsletter at the beginning of Decmeber. I plan to have a sign up sheet at the two entrances to school (Toddler/Preschool/Kindergarten & Elementary) What do you think about having a column on the sign up sheet for "Treat Name/recipe name" to try and avoid duplication?

I was going to just have a cookie sampling during the exchange but really like the hors devourve (sp?) idea - think it's too much to ask everyone to bring both cookies and something to munch on during the exchange???

As I said this is my first time hosting an exchange and on such a large scale (possibly up to 30-40 moms) is alittle daunting - any suggestions or support would be appreciated!!!!

Thanks & happy holidays!

JOANNE

[bntmama]

Hi Joanne!
I think it might be a good idea to allow people to RSVP through email to you besides the sign up sheet, I am having people call me or email me with their cookie choice. It was first come, first choice so you could state that on the invitation too and also explain that you want a variety of cookies. I think it's a good idea to have on the sign up sheet a column for the name and cookie. I would put in the invitation that if you would like to bring an appetizer that it would be appreciated and then have another column on the sign up sheet for appetizers. Good luck with the exchange, can you have another mom help you with the exchange?

[bonnieb]

How nice of you to take on this challenge. I am always the one getting stuck organizing these events but truthfully I enjoy it and I am very organized which helps.

Are you going to be more specific on the invitation? I agree with the first come, first choice in cookie idea but I would also make sure the invitation said COOKIES ONLY. Last year a friend of mine had a cookie exchange and I was a little ticked that some of the ladies brought bars. One lady actually brought the pan because she hadn't cut them yet. Believe me there were not that many to go around with only one pan. Homemade candy I don't mind because it can be as time consuming as cookies.

I agree on the e-mail idea. I communicate best through e-mail (less time consuming). How many moms do you think you might have?

Appetizers are a great idea (it will off set all the sweets). I would still have a table for extra cookies and let them know that if they wish to bring some for everyone to sample that would be fine too. Give them the choice and that way you will end up with a dessert.

Good Luck and enjoy