Attending a dull and disastrous party is a lot like chipping a tooth with teeth-whitening strips on. So, if you happen to find yourself at one of these (and there’s no way of salvaging it) head home early from the Mardi Gras party since you’re feeling so “sick”—we’ve got a few gourmet goodies to keep you occupied!

1. Tune in (online) to BBC Masterpiece Classic Theater’s Emma—watch the trailer preview.

2. Indulge in some gourmet sweetness.

Of course, if you’d rather not celebrate solo, no matter the turnout of the festivities, be sure to bring the party host/hostess an irresistible gourmet cookie gift basket — May the celebrations begin!

Happy Mardi Gras everyone!

♥ Heidi’s Heavenly Cookies

[image: Masterpiece Classic]

Since not all of us can go to Mobile (where Mardi Gras started and the carnivals last a week!), we might as well try to recreate the spirit of ‘Fat Tuesday’ and the New Orleans parade on Bourbon Street in our respective parties wherever we may live. Here are a few tips to make for one exciting evening, February 16th!

Masked Ball Theme

• Decorate with vibrant colors and carnival stripes. Try to find images, balloons, lights, garland, ribbons, feathers, glitter, beads, and decor that resemble or give the essence of the Bourbon Street characters such as Medusa, Hydra, the Sphinx and Unicorn.

• Invite guests to dress up and wear brilliant colored and ornate costumes with masks. Mardi Gras official colors and symbolism: green (“faith”), gold (“power”) and purple (“justice”).
  

• Serve a table of hors d’oeuvres with gumbo, cornbread, jambalaya, red beans and rice, dips and vegetables, and, for the dessert bar, Gourmet Cookies.

We wish you all a very exciting and safe Mardi Gras party!

P.S. We’d LOVE to hear from you: Any fun stories, traditions or party tips you’d like to share? Email us at heidi@heidisheavenlycookies.com and tell us your favorite party tips!

♥ Heidi’s Heavenly Cookies

[image via Wiki + Wiki]