Cleveland, OH - A recent web survey indicated that Americans believe
fruitcake is best used as a doorstop, as a gift or as land fill (the opinion
of the majority). However, Party411.com, an event planning website, is coming
to the defense of fruitcake due to its rich history (and rich ingredients).
"It all started with the Romans who sustained their army in faraway
lands. Just like Rome, a good fruitcake is not built in a day," says
Party411.com Founder Sherri Foxman. From Rome, fruitcake took Europe by storm.
In fact, it was law that the serving of fruitcake (also known as plum cake)
was limited to certain holidays and only the most important milestones. It was
on her birthday one year that Queen Victoria started the tradition of putting
it aside to practice "restraint, moderation and good taste," eating
it a year later.
Unlike the Queen, Americans are not so keen on eating fruitcake, yet,
Christmas without fruitcake is like a presidential election without a
president--unfulfilling. So, when your well-meaning friends send you a
fruitcake, try these useful ideas (then you never have to swallow a bite).
- Trivet - Self explanatory.
- Centerpiece - Put on the table center atop a bed of pinecones,
holly and evergreen branches.
- Guest Towel Holder - Place two fruitcakes side by side. Insert
popsicle sticks to hold your favorite guest towels. Decoupage if you feel
up to it.
- Knife Rest - Cut the fruitcake into rectangles and put one at
each place…your guests will marvel at your creativity.
- Place Card Holder - Cut the fruitcake into rectangles and make a
small groove in the top to hold your card. Coat with polyurethane so you
can use year after year.
- Holiday Door Knocker - Super glue a hinge to the fruitcake
bottom, use removable double stick tape to attach the back of the hinge to
your door.
- Votive Candle Holder - Make holes to hold votive candles. Insert
candles.
- Punch Hole Ring - Freeze your fruitcake in a block of ice and
throw it in your punch bowl for an unusual, yet attractive garnish.
Don't worry if your boss brings a fruitcake to your Christmas Open House
this year. March in the kitchen and make it into something wonderful! Imagine
his surprise when it is on display in your guest bathroom holding a Glade
refill! For all holiday party themes, activities, advice, gift-giving
etiquette and planning tools, visit www.party411.com.
