Ziplock Home Organization House Party

I was selected to host a Ziplock Home Organization House Party. This was the first time I had hosted a House Party, so I was very interested to see how it would work and to how much people would really get into it. I was pleased on all fronts and am pleased to report that it was a big success.

Ten of us got together for a happy hour, enjoying vino (red of course), pizza and snacks and lots of cool new Ziplock products. The group was impressed by the number of products Ziplock sent and to the breadth of product offering they had in their line. Definitely beyond the Ziplock sandwich bags we all know.

It was clear that Ziplock is looking to expand its profile in the organization space and if their line up is any suggestion to their approach and future leadership, they are primed to take home organization by storm.

So, we spent our evening testing the products, talking about different uses and solutions to bring our homes, crafts, coupons, art projects, toys, clothes, offices (and almost anything) into better order with Ziplock.

Group Favorites - Ziplock Product Winners:
- No. 1 - Ziplock Flexible Totes - Rated Tops by the testers: This came out on tops. As the newest Ziplock item, it was highly coveted - as we only received one. (I was the lucky person who got to keep it!). This tote was lightweight, but still sturdy, and would be a great way to organize sweaters/clothes from season to season or even children's toys or games. As it is soft, versus hard like Rubbermaid containers, it is very pliable and flexible which we liked.

- No 2 - Twist and Seal: This plastic canister had measurement markings on the side (holds up to 4 cups) of the container, perfect for storing dry ingredients. The top did not click and seal, but instead twisted and locked. This was very convenient and a big hit. Everyone wished there were more of these samples to go around.

- No. 3 - Ziplock 100 calorie snack XS bowls: This was a favorite for the moms with young children. We thought that it was perfect for storing cereal and other foods on-the-go. Also, I found that it is a great holder for all of our extra house keys! Now the "stuff" drawer is much better organized and filled with Ziplock containers, including this one.

- No 4 - Ziplock 100 calorie snack bags: This product was more controversial with the group. They felt that the bags, while small, could be misleading to hold more than 100 calories. Also, the group thought they would be harder to reuse. Finally, the question came up about why not just fill another Ziplock you already have with less versus buying another bag.

- No 5 - Ziplock Dry Bags: While I have found some great uses for this product personally (such as putting away my lingering Christmas decorations), others did not find these as useful. They thought they would be more limiting and good for camping. I think there are many uses for them - especially after losing many personal items in our recent basement flood. These bags would have saved many keepsakes which we lost.

(PS - We all fell in love with the "goodie bags" which Ziplock sent. So cute!! Loved the design. People thought they would make good lunch bags, good to store pictures, etc. Who knew that an acutal goodie bag would be so hot!)

Comments/Suggestions:
-Good Experience Overall: Everyone agreed that it was a good experience. We had fun and enjoyed sharing organizational tips and trying out the new products. The group also enjoyed helping others to identify organization solutions to fit their needs.

- Good Materials a Key to Success: Ziplock did a very nice job sending tips, conversation starters, note pads, pens, home organization ideas (by each room of the house) and coupons! We decided that anyone who holds such a party really needs to do their pre-work and develop the best materials possible.

- House Party Web Site: Very nice site. Good layout, holding everything you need to host your party - from sending out invites, to talking with other party hosts, posting pictures, videos, etc. Very well done.

- Only Criticism: All parties are suppose to be held on one night. While this might be ideal, it is not always realistic if you have a sick child or if that already is a very busy plan filled night. We thought it would be better to have a few day/small window in which each host should have their party. This would ensure that the maximum amount of people can attend - which we thought would be better appreciated by the companies paying for House Parties.

We had a blast and I look forward to posting more of the creative, organizational ideas which the girls shared. A fun night with good friends and good products. I hope that I am selected to host another one in the future!!! Thank you House Party and Ziplock for choosing me!!!