From Work of ART children’s books:
Two local moms and small business owners are bringing families together for a sweet afternoon of creativity and storytelling. On Saturday, November 14, from 4 to 5 p.m., SOMA Sweets will host the Work of ART Candy Lab with Maplewood author and Infertile AF podcast host Ali Prato.
The event will feature a hands-on activity in which children decorate and fill their own candy petri dishes, followed by a reading of Petri Dish Princess, the newest title in Prato’s Work of ART children’s book series, which celebrates the many ways families are made. Each child’s ticket also includes a signed copy of one of the Work of ART books to take home.
The collaboration brings together Prato and SOMA Sweets owner Monica Hafif, both moms through IVF, to celebrate community and the many different ways families can be created through Assisted Reproductive Technology. All families are welcome.
SOMA Sweets owner Monica Hafif (left) and Maplewood author Ali Prato, both of whom are IVF moms will celebrate community and the many ways families are created. (Photo courtesy of Ali Prato)
Petri Dish Princess tells the story of Elizabeth Carr, the first baby born through IVF in the United States. The book introduces young readers to her story in an accessible, joyful way, continuing the Work of ART series’ mission of helping children understand and celebrate their own family stories and those of others.
The Candy Lab offers families a chance to support two local businesses while enjoying an afternoon of books, creativity and candy.
Event details
- What: Work of ART Candy Lab
- When: Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 4 p.m.
- Where: SOMA Sweets, South Orange
- Tickets: $30 for one child and one parent; $25 for each additional sibling; Includes: Candy petri dish activity, author story time and a signed copy of one of the Work of ART books
- Registration: https://www.infertileafgroup.com/shop
