Sugar Skull Gathering Ideas

With the Day of the Dead gaining popularity, it is important to remember that this is actually great time of the year to remember those who have passed and reflect on their impact. You don't want to rush your group through and should allow for several hours of story telling, sugar making and then create your altar sharing your creations.

Every time I make a sugar skull, I imagine the person I am making it for. I use this time to share with my children, family and friends whatever comes to mind about that person. Sometimes it's a memory long forgotten and other times it just their life history. Over the years, these stories become a family history shared from person to person, so no one is forgotten.

This process is not to be rushed. The time is take to make your sugar skulls is part of the remembrance and honor you bring to them during this special time of the year. You may be surprised to hear children recall memories that you never heard of that brings joy to your heart. Or, you may be sharing about a loved one that someone never met, but through your stories and memories, they feel as if they knew them all along. 

- Be sure to have at least one skull for each participant, but 2-3 is ideal so no one is left picking just one person to remember.

- Be sure to have a variety of colors available so that each participant can make their skulls unique.

- Be sure to have other decorating items available such as glitters, ribbon, dried mini flowers, candy sprinkles, sequins, gems and more. We offer many items here at Sugar Skull Supplies, but a typical trip to the craft store will have you ready to decorate in no time. 

- Be sure to have seating for everyone with at least a good 12" of space. Sugar skull making should be done in a relaxed environment with a happy heart.

- Encourage people to talk about their loved ones. For those who are quiet, ask them who they are making their skull for and ask about that person. The art of sugar skull making can be greatly therapeutic and a chance for those who bottle up wonderful memories, to have a place and audience to share with.

- Remember, these skulls are a gift to those that have gone before us, there is no right or wrong way to make one. It is the time and energy that is the gift.

- Be sure to have out snacks and drinks. Since many altars include the favorite drinks and foods of those who passed, this is a great place to share those recipes and then place a small offering on the altar.