Autumn is finally here, which means that it is finally time to embrace all things pumpkin. The Internet is only slightly obsessed with this seasonal squash, after all. It is also your chance to host a pumpkin carving party for Halloween, because it does not get any more classic than that. (Well, aside from trick-or-treating, obviously.)
Thankfully, you do not need to be Martha Stewart to make an awesome carved pumpkin. That is why pumpkin carving stencils exist. Doing it in a party setting also lets you bounce ideas off of other people, so it is sure to be a blast.
To top it off, each and every guest will leave with customized DIY Halloween decor. It sure beats buying yet another generic piece from the store. The seeds can also be saved and used in a tasty autumn recipe, another one of the many perks.
Most importantly, everyone will be able to enjoy what fall has to offer. You can have each guest bring their own pumpkin, but if you want to make a day out of it, schedule a trip to go pumpkin picking. Hopefully, you can find some beautiful fall scenery to enjoy along the way. Autumn truly is the most wonderful time of the year.
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1Send Out Invitations
Invitations, $7, Etsy
Facebook might exist and all, but there's nothing like a decorative digital card. They're environmentally-friendly and are so much more personal. If you aren't savvy with Photoshop, send a simple e-mail or support an independent artist like PartyRebelDesigns on Etsy. Don't forget to menition whether the party is BYOP (Bring Your Own Pumpkin) or not.
2Find A Location
OK, so the party will be in your home, but where? Pumpkin carving can be messy, so it's best to choose a spot that isn't near anything important. Outside is the best bet, but if you don't have a deck or patio, the kitchen is a smart choice. Determine if you need to move things around well before the party, so you'll be prepared the day of.
3Collect Pumpkin Carving Tools
Pumpkin Carving Set, $7, Walmart
Don't limit yourself to knives. If you want to give your guests options, pick up a few packages of pumpkin carving tools, like this one from Walmart. You can also buy several pairs of inexpensive screwdrivers from the dollar store. Think outside of the box... or pumpkin.
4Print Out Templates
Carving Stencils, $14, Colored Craft
The internet is an amazing resource for pumpkin carving templates. Print out a couple to get your guests started, especially if they've never carved a pumpkin before. You can also buy a book of re-usable stencils, like this set from Colored Craft. Again, it saves on paper and can be used year after year.
5Plan A Pumpkin Menu
A pumpkin carving party wouldn't be complete without delicious pumpkin recipes. Choose treats that are easy to split and share, like these pumpkin cheesecake trifles by My Baking Addiction. Of course, don't forget the pumpkin spice lattés, too.
6Remind Guests To Buy Pumpkins
If it's BYOP, kindly remind everyone to buy a pumpkin before the big day. If your invitation was online, this will be a breeze. Simply send out a group text or e-mail.
7Set Out Clean Rags
On the day of, bring out the clean rags and paper towels. It'll make cleanup easier, as guests will be more likely to tidy up as they go. Make sure the garbage bin is nearby, too.
8Save The Seeds
Set out a bowl for everyone's seeds. Roast them according to this A Beautiful Mess recipe, and by the time everyone is done, there will be another treat to enjoy. Otherwise, keep sandwich bags on hand in case guests want to take seeds home.
9Take Photos
If it's not on social media, did it even happen? Snap a few photos of the carving action, and don't forget a group picture. The carved pumpkins will look awesome next to each other. Most importantly, everyone will have memories of an awesome night.
