Birthday Bullies: Keep Your Party Bully Free

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Planning your child's birthday party is exciting, but when it comes to creating the guest list you may find yourself stuck in rut. How many of your child's classmates can you invite? Should you invite the whole class or just a handful of kids? And what about that one kid who bullied your child or their friends all year? While birthday parties are supposed to be an exciting time for both you and your child, you can't ignore the fact that instances of bullying may be present from the time you mail your first invitation to the time the party is over.

Parents, we know you can't possibly invite everyone from your child's class, but you can talk to your child about how to deal with it. It's likely that the invitees will want to talk about the party at school, but to avoid hurting others' feelings, explain to your child that they should refrain from discussing the party during school hours. In the event that word spreads quickly and your child is approached by uninvited peers, teach your child a handful of polite responses they can use to not hurt anyone's feelings. To maximize your efforts, avoid having your child hand out invitations in school or other public settings where those who are not invited are present; instead, obtain the addresses of those you are planning to invite and mail their invitations separately.

Now that you've taken care of how to minimize bullying before the party, what about during the party? If you plan on having specialized activities take place, make sure there is plenty for all your guests to do; you don't want to see one or two guests sitting on the side while everyone else is having a good time. Similarly, if you decide to hand out favors at the end of the party, make sure there are enough for each one of your guests. All too often children leave empty handed because favors weren't properly accounted for. Lastly, one of the best things you can do as a parent to prevent bullying at your child's party is to supervise everything that's going on. Keep an eye out for physical signs of bullying, but don't forget to keep an ear out for any verbal abuse that might be happening.

For more information on how to handle birthday bullies, click here.

Birthday parties are supposed to be a time full of smiles and laughs, not one where kids are left out and brokenhearted. Here at Zacharys we look to provide a variety of special events to ensure all attendees have something to enjoy. Let us host your child's next Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Sweet 16, or Quinceanera. Join us in our efforts to minimize bullying at parties; call us at 516-794-9770.

How To Make Your Own Invitations

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We all know that part of the party planning process is deciding where and when your party will be, but once you've got that figured out, what's next? A party isn't a party without your guests, so once you've got the basics down, it's time to let people know about your special day. Picking out the perfect invitation for your party can be difficult; that's why many party planners are beginning to make their own! Not only are DIY invitations more personal, but they also open up a variety of new options that traditional invitations may lack.

Now, you may be thinking that creating your own invitations requires too much extra time and effort, but the good news is there are tons of templates out there to help you get started! If you're looking for a little inspiration, we've compiled a list of places you can go for ideas:

Zazzle:
Whether you're looking to start from scratch or use an existing template, Zazzle provides its customers with plenty of options for designing your own invitations.

Shutterfly:
Upgrade your invitations by including a photo of the guest of honor. From baby showers to graduations to weddings, Shutterfly offers a variety of templates you can use to dazzle your guests.

Paper Source:
If you plan to use your computer and print your invitations at home, Paper Source has beautiful printing paper available that you can use for all occasions.

Cards & Pockets:
Your invitations are more than just the card. At Cards & Pockets, customers can choose from a variety of envelopes, pre-cut inserts and embellishments that are great for adding a little sparkle to your invitations.

Before you can send out your invitations, the last thing you must do is fill them out. Include Zacharys on yours! Here at Zacharys, we offer services for a variety of special events including weddings, anniversaries, sweet 16s, and Bar/Bat Mitzvahs. Our party planners will work with you to make sure your special day is carried out to perfection, and we will assist in all aspects of the party planning process such as designing your menu and choosing your decorations.

Choose Zacharys to cater your special day; call us at 516-794-9770.

Spring Wedding Color Schemes

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516-794-9770

Now that we've put the winter behind us (or so we hope!), it's time to start preparing for all things spring! We all know spring brings a lot to look forward to, and for some of you, it might just bring one of the most important days in your life - your wedding day! For all you lucky girls who are planning to say I do in the next couple of months, it's time to start thinking about what colors you will choose for your flowers, dresses, and decorations. But...choosing a color scheme for your wedding is not always easy; that's why we've collected some of the top color schemes that are sure to make your spring wedding pop:

Pastel Purple, Pink and Blue
Spring doesn't just have to be about bright colors. If you're looking for a bolder look, pair purple and pink with a dash of blue. For this look in a bouquet, mix light purple ageratum and pincushion flowers with pink roses and calla lilies. Don't forget to add blue hydrangea at the bottom!

Aqua and White
A light color scheme for a spring wedding is very traditional. To get the look, design your cake to have aqua color frosting and a white ribbon tied into a bow on top. Your colors can also stand out by using aqua tinted glass to hold candles or by including white place settings with aqua designs.

Lavender and Green
A lavender hue mixed with dark green makes for a striking spring wedding color scheme. To make this color combo come to life, incorporate live, pastel flowers on and around your cake.

Pink, Light Green and White
If you're looking for a girly combo that's not too girly, try including a dash of light green to your pinks and whites. For example, try pairing pink roses, light green hydrangea, and white orchards to create beautiful handheld bouquets.

Olive Green and White
From mint green to olive green, pairing a green hue with white can help create a natural-looking, stunning spring wedding. This color combo is easy to apply to many aspects of your wedding; wrap white pillar candles with green ribbon or pair green bridesmaid dresses with bouquets of white hydrangea.

Peach and Pale Yellow
You don't have to be into pink to use pastels in your spring wedding. Choose peach and pale yellow colors if you're looking for a calming color combo.

If you're planning a wedding for this spring, don't wait until the last minute to book a venue for your reception; choose Zacharys for your special day! Our services include an event planner to help select menu options and other fine details such as decorations and entertainment. Your guests will also enjoy chic appetizers, towering culinary displays, and signature cocktails in addition to handcrafted desserts and of course your wedding cake!

Are you ready to turn your dream wedding into a reality? Call us today at 516-794-9770 and watch your fairy tale wedding come to life.

Corporate Event Opportunities

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516-794-9770

Are you looking for a way to connect your business with potential customers or engage clients? How about improving relationships by networking with other business men and women? In the corporate world, there are a variety of events that your business can host to help you achieve your goals. For your convenience, we've gathered a list of some of the most popular events that businesses tend to hold:

Board Meetings
Board meetings are important company wide meetings that discuss the progress and future strategies of the company. These meetings can be held at outside venues for the comfort and convenience of your employees.

Business Dinners
Business dinners are one of the most popular events in the corporate world. A company can host this kind of event for a variety of reasons, such as getting to know your clients or for getting together with employees or others that are connected to your business.

Product Launch
If your company is releasing a new or modified product, hosting a product launch is great for generating a buzz. To really highlight your company and product, invite celebrities or other important people to the launch; this will boost your media coverage and improve relations with your customers.

Customer and Client Appreciation Parties
Satisfying and retaining current clients or customers is a crucial part of marketing. By throwing them a party, you are showing that you appreciate their loyalty to your company. Keep in mind, this event should only be held when the company's performance has been outstanding.

Seminars and Training Camps
Training events for managers and employees is one of the best ways to improve your work force. By holding frequent training programs, you can keep employees up to date on any developments in your field. For maximized results, consider inviting experts in your field to teach at these events.

Award Ceremonies
Showing your appreciation for the work your employees have done is great for boosting the morale of your staff. To make your ceremony even more memorable, host your event at an outside venue rather than on company premises.

Happy Parties
Who says you need a reason to host an event? Company parties that are simply for blowing off steam is great for reducing stress, boosting morale, and improving work efficiency. Anyone conneced with your business should be invited.

Charity Events
Connecting your company with a charity is an excellent way to improve your image. Companies who show that they give back tend to receive positive feedback, and attending charity functions can put your company in a positive light.

Trade Shows
If you're looking to showcase new products, achievements, or simply generate new leads, host a trade show where people can come and learn about what your company is all about.

Once you've picked out the type of event you're going to host, it's time to choose a venue that will put your company in the spotlight. That's where we come in. Here at Zacharys, we can provide all that you need to ensure your event is a success. Our event planners will make sure that all of the party's catering is done in an artistic yet professional way and will plan your party to match all of your company's goals and values. So, help us help you; call 516-794-9770 today.

Bar and Bat Mitzvah Themes for 2014

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516-794-9770

When gearing up for your child's Bar or Bat Mitzvah, one of the toughest decisions to make is their theme. All of your guests look forward to seeing what exciting theme you've chosen, so it's important to pick one that's sure to dazzle your crowd. There are endless possibilities to choose from, so it might be a good idea to take a close look at your child's passions, preferences, and hobbies. If you find yourself stuck in this part of the planning process, here are some popular Bar/Bat Mitzvah themes that event planners say are sure to make a splash in 2014:

The "All About Me" Theme:

Since your child is the focus of your party, why not create a theme based completely on, well, them! Don't be surprised if you find your center pieces and cake design are made from a photo of your child; with this theme you are bound to see your child's face plastered all over everything! By choosing this theme, every aspect of the party should reflect your child's interests and personality.

The "Blockbuster" Theme:

Popular movies always make for a great Bar/Bat Mitzvah theme. Event planners believe that 2014 will bring tons of parties based on "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire," and they also suggest that fantasy and sci-fi movies will have a huge impact on theme selection.

The "Extreme" Theme:

What better time to go all out and recreate out-of-this-world experiences than on one of the biggest days of your child's life? As far as 2014 Bar/Bat Mitzvah parties go, bigger is better, so think outside the box and create something that's never be done before.

The "Destination" Theme:

If your child is interested in a sports theme, it's easy to decorate your venue with things like athletic equipment and images of their favorite players. But, what if you could make their theme really come to life? If your child is having a baseball themed party, try renting a baseball stadium for your venue! Or if your child wants to have a tropical theme, why not take them and a few friends on an actual vacation? While you might think this could leave your pockets dry, party planners say this is a potentially cheaper way to throw your child the party of their dreams.

The "Rustic" Theme:

Recent trends show that decorations including mason jars and wild flowers to convey a modern look are becoming popular. Try using candles, vintage pictures, white wood, and country furniture to decorate your child's party if this is the look you're going for. 

Bar and Bat Mitzvahs on Long Island are extraordinary at Zacharys! You'll find everything you need to celebrate in either of our locations, and our event staff will go to great lengths to make sure your party is memorable. We'll help you create a menu that all guests can enjoy, including delicious, gourmet food that is both kosher and non-kosher.

Bar and Bat Mitzvahs are more than just a party, they are a coming of age celebration for your son or daughter - call us at 516-794-9770 to begin planning your family's special day today.

Tips For A Stress Free Party

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Do you ever feel overwhelmed when planning a party? It's not unusual if you do, since the party planning process can often be intimidating. But, what if party planning was made easy? The good news is...it can be! Thanks to HGTV, we've collected tips from an experienced party planner to help you plan and host a party with no stress involved:

1. Get Organized: Before getting into details, create a checklist for yourself that outlines every task that must be accomplished in order for your party to be a success. Also keep a list of any supplies that must be bought, as well as a guest list that includes contact information and their RSVPs.
2. Create a Theme: Important events can be even more exciting when a theme is involved. Be creative and transform your venue to set the mood for your party. Remember, there are endless theme possibilities.
3. Send Invitations: While the Internet is becoming a popular outlet for notifying guests about a party, there's nothing like recieving a personalized invitiation in the mail. Search your area for a local stationary company to help or be creative and make your own.
4. Offer a Self-Serve Bar: If you plan on includng a bar at your party, try setting up a self serve bar so guests can create their own drinks. Also, place other drink options by the door so guests can get started on mingling right away.
5. Create Your Own Drink: Spice up your party by creating at least one specialty cocktail of your own. When figuring out how much you'll need, assume that each guest will consume one alcoholic drink per hour.
6. Keep Appetizers Simple: Depending on your party, serving horderves may be more appetizing than a sit-down dinner. Not only is this approach less formal, but it also allows guests to sample lots of different options and encourages interaction all night long. For a quick fix, use ready-made ingredients instead of making them from scratch.
7. Prepare a Kids Table: If you know you'll have little ones running around, it's a good idea to set up a separate area where they can have their own fun. Including a table where kids can color and make crafts is sure to keep them occupied - at least for a little while!
8. Keep Settings Simple: Your table setting doesn't have to be complicated; simply tying the silverware with nice ribbon is enough to set the scene.
9. Relax: Give yourself an hour before your guests arrive to freshen up and relax. Your feel good mood is sure to bring out the same in your guests. 
10. Favors: Providing guests with a favor at the end of the night is a simple way of saying thank you. While sometimes it's nice to splurge on your favors, homemade baked goods can be more personal and are sure to be appreciated by your guests.

Here at Zacharys we understand how stressful planning a party can be. Let us help you! From your menu to decorations, entertainment and dessert, our caterers and planners can handle all of the details to ensure your party runs as smoothly as possible.

Don't wait, call us today at 516-794-9770.

Cakes vs. Cupcakes

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516-794-9770

Are you in the middle of planning the picture perfect wedding? Weddings are one of the most beautiful and exciting events in a lifetime, but for the bride and groom, they could also be one of the most stressful. With a long list of decisions to make, make dessert the easy one! Using cupcakes instead of a cake is becoming increasingly popular in party trends, but how do you know which cream-filled treat is for you? Here are some tips to help make planning your wedding easier.

Cakes:
We all know the cutting of the cake is a long standing tradition of weddings. Choosing a cake allows you to continue the tradition of feeding it to your loved one, saving the top tier for your first anniversary, and of course, cutting it in front of all your guests! Cakes are also often the center of your wedding party, and are typically one of the first things your guests look for when they walk into the reception. Without one, your guests may be asking where your cake is, so choose a cake and give them something to talk about! Lastly, using a cake gives you the opportunity to design it exactly how you want. Every wedding cake is unique to you and your partner's preferences, and what you decide on will be a memory you can share forever.

However, keep in mind that cakes can be pricy and your flavors may be limited, especially depending on how many tiers you have. Additionally, cakes can be easier to ruin, and the last thing you want is for your only dessert to be knocked over when someone gets too close!

Cupcakes:
Including cupcakes in your wedding party has become a great alternative to cakes. If you decide on cupcakes, the flavor possibilities are endless, and you can include more than one to satisfy everyone's taste buds. Since they are individualized, guests are also able to pick their own and at their own convenience, so there is no need to stress about cutting enough slices of cake. Cupcakes are also very easy to make yourself and can be a great project to give to family members who want to help out. And while they may not be as extravagant as a 5 tier cake, you also have the option to design them however you want - there are no limits on creativity! Finally, cupcakes have the potential to be significantly cheaper than a cake, so if you're looking to save money, cupcakes are your best bet!

Don't forget, though, that with cupcakes you will loose the cake cutting tradition. However, you can order a much simpler and smaller cake to be designated as the "cutting cake" in addition to your cupcakes. But, if you do decide to go with cupcakes, remember that they are replacing the highly anticipated wedding cake, so your display has a big role to fill!

Here at Zacharys our event planner will assist in making your dream wedding come true. In addition to planning your menu and organizing your decorations and entertainment, our event planner will assist in helping you choose your dessert and can offer creative ideas to help make your special day one to remember. We want to make planning your wedding as stress free as possible - call us today at 516-794-9770 to get started.

Throwing a Theme Party: Tips and Ideas

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516-794-9770

Have you ever wanted to throw a party but had no reason to? Well, who says you need an excuse? Every once and a while it's important to get together with friends and family to have a good time and relieve some of the stress that comes with everyday life, so make a reason to celebrate! Theme parties are a great way to let loose and have fun, so start planning your perfect night out today! If you're not sure which theme to choose, check out our top theme party ideas to help you get started.

1. Around the World: You can find inspiration from different cultures and cuisines from all around the world. Start by picking a country, then research typical cuisine and traditions, and finish by discovering any important holidays the country celebrates and incorporate those ideas into your menu, decorations, and entertainment. 
2. Time Warps: Throwing a party based on different time periods, decades, or specific dates always make for a good time. First, pick any interesting and exciting decade, generation, or era, and then incorporate as many historical things from that time period into your party! These themes are great for costumes so encourage your guests to come dressed up! 
3. Inspired by Movies and Shows: Pop culture is one of the easiest tools to use if you're looking for inspiration. Take any movie, TV show, book, celebrity, or artist and make it the focus of your theme party! Try throwing a Hollywood party and have your guests come dressed like their favorite celebrity.
4. Sports Celebrations: We all know sports are already a great excuse for a get together when they're on TV, so why not take it and make it something more? If you're looking to throw a party with sports involved, try hosting lawn games, a pickup game with friends before a BBQ, or a pre-tailgating party during the annual Fantasy Football draft. 
5. Just for Fun: Don't limit yourself when it comes to choosing a theme. Anything that you're interested in can make for a great theme party with just a little creativity, time, and effort!

Once you've chosen your theme, it's time to choose a place to host your party. Here at Zacharys our event planner will help you plan the perfect night and will provide creative ideas that can help you capture the look and feel of your theme party. In addition to working with you on your decorations, we will also assist in planning your menu and entertainment for the evening. 

Call us today at 516-794-9770 to set up your theme party today.