THRIVING Melanin Family Magazine September 2018 | Page 70

I’ve tried to get him to tone it down, but he insists he’s
creating fun memories for them. Well, the outside of
the house may be his, but the inside is mine! I take
care of the decorations, food, and activities. I insist
that the children help. This is a good time to get them
to put down their devices and interact with us and
each other. Halloween also provides a great
opportunity for you and your children to interact with
your neighbors. A Halloween party!
Invite all the neighbors with kids on your block. If you
don't have enough on your street, try a few blocks
down, around the corner, or invite some of the kids’
friends from school. Don't overwhelm yourself; pick a
number and stick with it. Try ten (10) and cap it at
fifteen (15). Have your kids write out the invites. Older
kids can do the fill in the blank type invites easily.
Personally go to each house, along with your children
and deliver the invites. It’s always nice to meet and
greet the guests before the big party.
I love to plan parties. I love exploring magazines and
blogs and the internet for cute and scary treats.
Classics like cookies and candy corn are always good,
but don't forget the cool eyeball gum and the
graveyard brownies. Even the popcorn boxes with
spider rings are a big hit and easy to make. I always
have goody bags or gable boxes to go ready. No one
eats all those goodies but most kids like a take home
treat. Make sure to include the kids while you set up. It
always creates fond memories and we love to tell the
stories as the years go on.
Patrice is the mother of two; a
teenager and an adult child and a
grandmother of 4, ranging from 13
years to 11 months. She is a
graduate of The Fashion Institute
of Design and Merchandising.
Patrice has worked as a liaison
for a prominent bridal boutique
and as a retail manager for
several luxury brands, including
Godiva Chocolates. Although she
was successful working for
others, she yearned to be an
entrepreneur. Patrice began by giving tea parties for little
girls. She loved how their faces light up with excitement as
they dressed up as princesses, even the boys joined in,
dressing up in little tuxedos! Currently she is the Chief Event
Designer at “Trois Dames J Events”. This endeavor is a
family affair; working together to achieve the ultimate event
service for her clients. The business is bi-coastal servicing
and all points between!
SEPTEMBER
2018 • THRIVE | 67