Special Occasions

• Board games can serve as centerpieces in any number of ways for special occasions. They can even be used as wedding centerpieces. Centerpieces can feature games that are meaningful to the newlyweds games such as "Life" to signify the beginning of their married life together. "Chutes and Ladders" and "Candy Land" are fun additions to a children's birthday party. Label or write the guests' names on the playing pieces and use them as place cards at the table.
  
  

Business Gatherings

• Business gatherings do not need to be boring affairs. Introducing board games into the mix can create some excitement. Consider using the game "Operation" for a gathering of medical professionals. A group of Realtors might enjoy a game of "Monopoly" after a luncheon. Inspire teachers or writers with "Scrabble." As a start, hosts might use the tile boards and tiles as place cards and encourage guests to play the game using their own names.
  
  

Holidays

• Board games are a holiday tradition for many families. However, the activity is usually saved for after the meal. Bring the game to the table and adjust traditional games to fit the occasion. Use raw sweet potatoes as place cards and let everyone decorate their Mr. or Mrs. Potato Head with the game pieces. Holiday editions of many classic board games are readily available. "Booo-Opoly," a takeoff on "Monopoly," would be an appropriate choice for a Halloween party. The Holiday Edition of "Scrabble" would fit with a Christmas celebration. Players earn extra points for using words associated with the Christmas season.
  
  

Home

• You don't need a special occasion or party to use board games as a centerpiece. Make a board game part of your family room's decor by using a classic board game such as "Checkers" or "Chess" as the centerpiece on a coffee table. Situate the playing pieces to simulate a game in progress to add extra appeal. A partially completed jigsaw puzzle is nearly impossible to resist. A strategically placed board game may stimulate increased family interaction and less television viewing.