Creating Lake Anne in Gingerbread and Gumdrops

Reston resident Glenn Gore has recreated Lake Anne Plaza — in gingerbread, lollipops and gumdrops.

Gore, a business consultant by day, says he is carrying on a tradition of elaborate gingerbread construction begun by his mother, Elizabeth Gore, in the 1970s. Elizabeth Gore announced two years ago she was ended the tradition. That’s when Glenn took over.

Said Glenn Gore:

“Last year, I picked up the tradition and built the Wiehle-Reston East Metro station. I used techniques I learned over the years and a few techniques I learned along the way.”

I make the gingerbread using a family recipe, and royal icing holds everything together. Last year’s, as well as this year’s, houses are made of entirely edible ingredients and candy.

This year’s Lake Anne Village Center was constructed using 17  batches of dough (one batch will cover a typical cookie sheet). I build the gingerbread structure; my wife does the decorating.”

Gore even added a touch to show this is Lake Anne in 2014 — a gingerbread Santa paddleboarder.

Gore and his wife have worked with the Lake Anne Merchant’s Association, which is letting them display the project in the old Lakeside Pharmacy space through the holidays.

Photo courtesy of Glenn Gore