Pumpkin Carving Party

Even though the official first day of fall is not until September 22, it certainly feels like autumn here in Maryland. The air here has been quite crisp, especially in the evenings. Fall is definitely my favorite time of year, and what better way to get the season started then by hosting a Pumpkin Carving Party.

Many pumpkin carving parties are geared towards children, but I love the idea of inviting over a small group of girlfriends to share in the activity. There's nothing better than conversation, creativity and pumpkin pie martinis!

• Invite guests with this cute jack-o-lantern invitation -- FineStationery.com

• Use this pumpkin pie martini recipe and offer an autumn cocktail to each guest -- Thoughtfully Simple

• Make this delicious pumpkin cream-cheese spread and serve with bagels -- Better Homes & Gardens

• Find pumpkin carving templates online and provide a stack for each guest to choose from -- Martha Stewart

• Be sure you're prepared with the proper pumpkin carving tools -- Improvements Catalog

• Make these nifty pumpkin candle holders using petite pumpkins, glass hurricanes and hairpins, and use them to decorate your table -- Good Housekeeping