A Menu For Any Occasion!

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Whether you're planning a wedding reception, sweet 16, Bar or Bat Mitzvah or more, Zacharys has what you need to make every party a success. Especially when it comes to your menu, we provide our customers with a variety of options to choose from! Each of our packages are unique in their tastes and presentation and have been designed around the number of guests in your party. See below for a brief description of what can be served at each of these milestone events as well as some insight into our menu packages:

Weddings:
At a Zacharys wedding, your guests will enjoy chic appetizers, towering culinary displays and signature cocktails. For dessert, we supply carefully handcrafted treats and to top it off, your guests will of course enjoy your wedding cake!

Bar/Bat Mitzvahs:
For all of our Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, Zacharys is available to create a menu that guests of all ages can enjoy. To make sure all guests are satisfied, we can provide gourmet non kosher and kosher menus.

Sweet 16s:
Choose between our Nouveau, Deluxe, Supreme, Elite, Elegant and Regal packages to discover a taste that works for you. And don't forget the desserts! We are available to supply the sweetest candy table that can satisfy every sweet tooth.

The following is a list of our menu options and the number of guests that each are catered towards:

• Deluxe: Party for a minimum of 75 guests
• Elegant: Party for a minimum of 75 guests
• Nouveau: Party for a minimum of 80 guests and a maximum of 110 guests
• Supreme: Party for a minimum of 80 guests
• Regal: Party for a minimum of 80 guests and a maximum of 130 guests
• Elite: Party for a minimum of 100 guests

For more information on our menu options, visit our website or contact us at (516) 794-9770.

And don't forget...All HOLIDAY PARTIES booked by July 15, comprised of 100 guests or more, will be eligible for a package upgrade! That's more than a $500 value! Contact us to learn more.

Beat the Heat: Summer Wedding Trends and Tips

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Image courtesy of Just2shutter / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

When it comes to planning a wedding, one of the most difficult decisions you have to make is choosing a date and season. For many couples, summer is the most desired season due to the nice weather and ability to host ceremonies or parties outdoors. But how do you plan for one? Check out these trends and tips to help you plan the perfect summer wedding:

1. Choose Bright Colors: Bright, bold colors are always a great choice for a summer wedding. But don't go too crazy, pick only two or three hues and stick with them.

2. Florals: In addition to solid colors, floral print is great to use for your invitations or decorations. This can help give off an elegant vibe and is a great way to offset any solid patterns you have.

3. Soft Music: Keep the air light by including soft, laid back music in your reception. Especially during your cocktail hour, keep guests cool, calm and collected with soft background music created through the use of a piano or string instrument.

4. Wine Smoothies/Frozen Drinks: Since you run the risk of getting married on a hot day, make sure to incorporate some kind of frozen treat into your drink menu; giving guests something cool to sip on is sure to be a hit.

5. Outdoor Weddings: Though indoor weddings can be beautiful, outdoor weddings are a great way to celebrate summer and your wedding all at once. Dare to dip your toes in the sand with a beach wedding? Great weather provides great opportunities.

Once you've picked a date and ironed out your guest list, it's time to pick a venue for your reception! Choose Zacharys Catering! Throughout any season, Zacharys is ready to cater your special day. Your guests will enjoy chic appetizers, towering culinary displays and signature cocktails in addition to beautifully handcrafted desserts and your wedding cake! Make this summer one to remember with the wedding of your dreams; contact us at (516) 794-9770 today!

And don't forget...All HOLIDAY PARTIES booked by July 15, comprised of 100 guests or more, will be eligible for a package upgrade! That's more than a $500 value! Contact us to learn more.

Top Song Picks for Bar/Bat Mitzvahs

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One of the most important aspects of any party (and possibly one of the most anticipated) is the entertainment that you choose. When it comes to entertainment, you must decide what music you'll play, if you'll have any special games or activities, if you'll present any giveaways and more! Specifically focusing on your music selection, it's important to play music that is current, appropriate for all guests, and of course, what your child likes! Since the party planning process tends to be overwhelming, we've compiled a list of popular Bar/Bat Mitzvah songs that you can use to make picking your music easier:

Party Songs:
1. Happy - Pharrell Williams
2. Burn - Ellie Goulding
3. Pompeii - Bastille
4. Counting Stars - One Republic
5. Tonight - Ne Yo and Pitbull
6. I Gotta Feeling - Black Eyed Peas
7. Moves Like Jagger - Maroon 5

Montage Songs:
1. The Time of My Life - David Cook
2. 100 Years - Five for Fighting
3. Do You Remember - Sean Paul and Lil Jon
4. Forever Young - Rod Stewart
5. Beautiful Day - U2

With so many songs to choose from, it can be difficult to pick ones that are perfect for you. That's where we can help! At Zacharys, our Bar and Bat Mitzvahs include an event planner that will assist you in choosing the best music for your party. Additionally, our planners will help you create a menu that is suitable for both adults and the honored guest's circle of friends.

Let us make your special day one you'll never forget. Contact us at (516) 794-9770 to get started!

How to Throw an Engagement Party

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When it comes to marriage proposals, it's not unusual for the happy couple to have a series of celebrations from the time they first get engaged until the day of the wedding. After the bride to be says "I do," many families first throw an engagement party to celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in their child's life. While engagement parties are typically thrown by the parents of the brides family, sometimes friends and extended family also like to get involved. If you have someone special in your life who just got engaged, consider throwing them an engagement party to say congratulations! See below for a few tips on how to throw the perfect engagement party:

1. Timing: Try to schedule the party within a few months of the actual engagement. If you wait too long, chances are the bride and groom have already begun planning the wedding and will be preoccupied with figuring out their own party details.

2. Guests: Traditionally, those that are invited to the engagement party should also be invited to the wedding. However, this doesn't mean you need to invite all proposed guests. Start by including the families of both the bride and groom, and then go down the list to see which friends will be invited.

3. Gifts: While many people save the gifts for the bridal shower or wedding reception, there are always those who can't help but bring a little something special to the engagement party. As the host, ask the honored couple if they have created a wedding registry in case potential respondents are asking.

4. Type of Party: Engagement parties can come in many different forms. While some prefer a small luncheon, others plan for an elaborate celebration. This decision should mainly be based off of your budget; don't forget, there are other opportunities for a big party in the future!

5. Greeting: As soon as guests arrive they're going to want to congratulate the new couple, so plan a spot where the bride and groom can comfortably greet guests.

For more engagement party tips, click here.

If you're planning an engagement party, choose Zacharys! Whether you're planning a small luncheon, cocktail party or an elaborate affair with customized food displays, our catering team will guide you through every step of the planning. Your guests will enjoy chic appetizers, towering culinary displays, classic party favorites and signature cocktails. And don't forget the dessert! We are also known for our creative handcrafted desserts and celebration cakes. For more information on our engagement parties, contact us at (516) 794-9770 today!

Memorial Day Party Checklist

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Every year on the final Monday of May, Memorial Day is celebrated to remember the brave men and women who died while serving in the military. In addition to celebrating the lives of those who died for our country, many people often use it to mark the start of summer vacation and the summer season and celebrate by hosting their first outdoor BBQ. So how do you plan to celebrate this year? If you're looking for an excuse to get together with family and friends, consider a Memorial Day party! The following is a guideline you can follow to help you prepare:

Appetizers:
- Mozzarella sticks
- Pigs in a blanket
- Chips and dip

Food:                                                                                     
- Hot dogs and hamburgers  
- Hero sandwiches      
- French fries                                  
- Corn on the cob
- Chicken
- Ribs                           

Dessert:
- Baked goods (cookies, brownies)
- Strawberry or blueberry pie
- American flag cupcakes

Decorations:
- Flags
- Red, white and blue streamers
- Stars and stripes tablecloth
- American flag pinwheels
- Red, white and blue place settings

If you're looking to take your party to the next level, consider hosting it at a catering hall - choose Zacharys! At Zacharys Catering, we have everything you need to host the perfect theme party. Our event planner will help you get started by figuring out details such as your menu, decorations and entertainment. We know that one of the most challenging parts of throwing a theme party is the decorating, which is why our planners put an emphasis on your decor and provide creative ideas that will help capture the look and feel of your party.

Contact us at (516) 794-9770 to begin planning your party today!

Popular Sweet 16 Themes

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Before planning the majority of your sweet 16, one of the first things you must decide on is your theme. The theme you pick lays the groundwork for your dress, decorations, entertainment and possibly even your menu! When it comes to choosing your theme, you want to pick something unique and memorable that truly captures your personality and interests; that said, this party is all about you! Since picking a theme can be tough, we've compiled a list of popular sweet 16 themes that are sure to wow your guests:

Candy: What better way to celebrate your sweet 16 than with a sweet theme? For this theme you can either dedicate your party to one specific piece of candy, a group of candies, or just candy in general! Consider including a candy buffet where guests can indulge in their favorite sweets all night. At Zacharys, we are available to provide a candy table that is meant to satisfy any sweet tooth!

Black and White: While colors are fun, a black and white theme is a great way to make your sweet 16 seem a little more formal. If you anticipate difficulty choosing decorations and entertainment, choose this theme for simplicity - everything will be in black and white! However, since this is your special day you're going to want to stand out, so use your dress as an excuse to include some color in your night.

Glow in the Dark/Neon: Since neon is the new black, think about a glow in the dark/neon party. Let guests get creative with their outfits for this theme, and don't forget to have plenty of glow necklaces and bracelets to hand out throughout the night! When it comes to choosing a dress, also make sure to pick something you know will stand out with your lighting.

Tiffany & Co: Glam up your night with this elegant and fancy theme while inserting your own name into the title. Think about using a little blue box for your seating cards, and to really impress guests, include an inexpensive, sparkling ring on the inside that they can wear all night long!

You only turn 16 once, so make it memorable; have Zacharys cater your party! Our party planners will help you coordinate every detail of your sweet 16 including your menu, decorations and entertainment. All sweet 16 parties come with a DJ, and we are able to provide MCs, dancers, artists, photographers and videographers. Who says you can't have your dream sweet 16? Let us help you make it happen; contact us at (516) 794-9770.

First Dance Wedding Songs for 2014

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After you've chosen your venue, decorations and menu, it's time to focus on the entertainment you plan to have at your wedding. When it comes to the music, there's only one thing guests are waiting to hear - the song you've picked for your first dance as a couple. The song you choose is one that will follow you forever, and chances are it is one that you and your spouse will continue to talk about throughout your journey as a married couple.

We know the process of choosing your first dance song is tough, and we want to make sure you pick one that's perfect. The following is a list of popular songs for 2014 that you can sample when sitting down to select your wedding song:

1. I Won't Give Up: Jason Mraz
2. Wanted: Hunter Hayes
3. Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not: Thompson Square
4. I'll Be - Edwin McCain
5. God Gave Me You - Blake Shelton
6. Count On Me - Bruno Mars
7. A Thousand Years - Christina Perri
8. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley
9. Kiss Me - Ed Sheeran
10. Marry Me - Train

For more traditional first dance songs, see below:

1. I Will - The Beatles
2. Bless the Broken Road - Rascal Flatts
3. I'll Stand By You - The Pretenders
4. Don't Want To Miss A Thing - Aerosmith
5. From This Moment - Shania Twain

For a complete list of popular wedding songs for 2014, click here.

Are you ready to choose your wedding song? Here at Zacharys, we can provide an event planner who can help you pick the best music for your wedding reception. For your wedding we will also help you select menu options and decorations. Your guests will enjoy chic appetizers, towering culinary displays, signature cock tails, and of course your wedding cake!

Your wedding day is one of the most important days in a person's life, and we want to help make it memorable. Contact us at (516) 794-9770 to begin planning your reception today!

Graduation Party Checklist

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With May comes college graduations, and with graduations come graduation parties! If your son or daughter is graduating from college this month, say congratulations by throwing them a graduation party! After all, this may be the last time they are ever a student, and that's a milestone that should never go unnoticed. If you've already begun the planning process and are only a few short weeks away from the party, then it's time to put on the final touches and make sure everything is in place for the big day. The following is a checklist you can follow as the day gets closer:
  

Week of the party:

• Shop for last minute supplies such as decorations or place settings.
• Shop for or prepare what you will wear to the party.
• Make sure your camera or phone is fully charged so you are ready to take pictures.
• Go over your guest list and check that you have accounted for everyone who will be attending.
• Confirm details with your venue or confirm delivery of rental equipment if your party will take place at home.

Day of the party:

• Wake up with enough time to get ready and pack up anything that needs to be taken to your venue. If your party is at home, wake up with enough time to set up tables, chairs, and tents if necessary.
• Pick up last minute food such as appetizers and dessert. If your party is catered, contact your caterer to confirm delivery times and menu.
• Pick up balloons or flowers if they are part of your decorations.
• Arrive early to your venue to put up final decorations, set up any extra amenities, and discuss party plans with the staff.
• Have fun and celebrate!

Once the party is complete, don't forget to thank guests for coming and stick around to help clean up. If your party is held at a venue, make sure you speak with your event planner to confirm payment and thank them for their services. If your party is at home, make sure you pack away any rental equipment and wrap up any extra food that is leftover. Don't forget to send thank you cards to guests within 2 weeks! 

If you're still looking for help on how to begin planning a graduation party, check out our previous blog.

Are you looking for a venue to host your child's graduation party? Choose Zacharys! Our event planners will help you plan your decor, menu and more, and will help reduce the stress that comes with party planning. Graduations are a special occasion, so celebrate the right way! Contact us at 516-794-9770 for more information on how we can help you plan the perfect graduation party.

How to Throw a "Red Carpet" Sweet 16

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If you're in the process of planning your daughter's sweet 16, or have thrown one in the past, then you're probably familiar with the stress that comes with picking the perfect theme. Since the majority of your party, including your menu, music, favors and decorations, are likely to revolve around your theme, it's important to choose something that is easy to work with while also meeting your daughter's personal preference.

A popular theme that allows you to really get creative is a "red carpet" or "Hollywood" theme party. With this theme, there are so many directions you can go in! Will your party focus on a particular movie or TV show? Maybe it will just focus on one particular celebrity. No matter which path you choose, a red carpet themed sweet 16 is sure to make your guests feel like they're superstars. The following are some tips you can use when designing your sweet 16 around this theme:

Attire: Everyone knows that celebrities dress to impress, so you should too! When picking out your daughter's sweet 16 dress, choose a look that resembles what her favorite celebrity might wear to an awards show. As for family and friends, suggest that they wear something they would want to be photographed in if they were walking the red carpet.

Decorations: A Hollywood theme isn't complete without a red carpet that leads from the venue's front door to the party room. To get the full effect, consider hiring a photographer who can take each guests' picture on the red carpet as they enter the room. Other decoration ideas include cardboard cutouts of celebrities and stars with guests' names for their place setting to imitate the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Music and Entertainment: Choose music that would make you feel like you're in LA celebrating with all of your favorite celebrities. Then, design activities that reflect the aspect of Hollywood you're trying to capture. For example, you can set up karaoke, have a name that tune contest, or show scenes from your favorite movies and ask guests to figure out what movie they're from.

Party Favors: End the night by giving guests a piece of Hollywood to take home. Some ideas include imitation Hollywood award trophies, movie clapboard key chains, and VIP laminates.

Are you ready to plan a night your daughter will never forget? Choose Zacharys to host your daughter's sweet 16! Our party planners will help you coordinate each detail of your sweet 16 and will work with you to ensure your party is unique and memorable. All sweet 16 parties come with a DJ, MC's, dancers, artists, photographers, videographers and more. Call us at (516) 794-9770 to start planning your party today!

Popular Wedding Desserts

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While most weddings include a traditional wedding cake (or cupcakes if you're into today's latest party trends), some couples prefer a different style. Especially for those who choose to have their wedding party in a location such as their own backyard, sometimes a variety of smaller desserts is preferred over a large wedding cake. That's why we've researched some of the top tastiest wedding desserts that couples can use for their special day! Whether your party is catered or held at a smaller venue such as your home, these treats are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth:

1. Pie Bar: For a less formal approach, consider ordering a few different flavored pies that can cater to all of your guests' taste buds. With a pie bar, guests have the option to choose a flavor they prefer or have the opportunity to sample a few different ones!

2. Baked Goods: Who doesn't love a good homemade brownie or cookie? Although most guests look forward to trying the cake you've chosen, sticking with traditional homemade goods are sure to excite. This option is also a great way to get your friends and family involved in your wedding by asking them to bake one item for the dessert table!

3. Doughnuts: Doughnuts are a delicious alternative to traditional wedding desserts. Like the pie bar option, order a few different flavors so that guests have the opportunity to sample different treats.

4. Frozen Yogurt: Since going out for "fro-yo" has turned into a popular activity for people of all ages, why not introduce guests to your favorite flavors? With this option, you can provide guests with cups of yogurt, or, seek out a venue that allows you to set up your own DIY frozen yogurt machine.

5. Candy Bar: End the night on a high note by offering guests a candy bar where they can fill up their own goody bag with their favorite treats. Here at Zacharys, we offer one of the sweetest candy bars filled with all your favorite chocolates, gummies, and more!

For more wedding day desserts, click here.

Here at Zacharys, we pride ourselves on our ability to create a menu that meets your needs. In addition to your appetizers and main course, we are available to provide dessert options that are sure to have your guests' mouths watering! Let your wedding day be full of sweet surprises; contact us at 516-794-9770 to begin planning your party today!

Cinco de Mayo Party Tips

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With Cinco de Mayo only 4 days away, it's time to break out your maracas, margaritas and sombreros! Every year, May 5 is devoted to celebrating Mexican culture. Historically, it celebrates Mexico's victory over France at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 and has evolved into an annual celebration especially within Mexican-American populations in the US. In honor of Cinco de Mayo, we've collected a few tips that you can use to throw your very own fiesta!

1. Sample Sauces: Since Mexican culture is popular for its sauces, offer guests a variety of sauces and salsas to try. Set up a table with bowls of tortilla chips and then arrange each of the sauces around the bowls. Don't forget to label your sauces so guests know what they're trying!
2. It's All About the Tacos: Consider including a station where guests can make their own tacos for a simple yet creative DIY main course. Include toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, beans, cheese, sour cream and guacamole. Also, consider including a signature taco dip for those who want the same delicious taco taste with their chips!
3. Margaritas: As soon as your party starts, prepare a margarita for each of your guests. Then, for the rest of the night, have a table set up where guests can get a refill at their convenience. For some Cinco de Mayo margarita recipes, click here!
4. Include a Pinata: No matter the age of your guests, consider including a pinata. Not only is this a great decoration, but it also makes for an activity that guests can look forward to. Who doesn't love candy?

For more menu options and other ideas for your Cinco de Mayo party, click here. 

If you're looking for a reason to throw a party, theme parties are a great way to go - who says you need a reason to celebrate? Hosting a theme party allows you get together with friends and family just for the fun of it!

Are you planning a theme party? Here at Zacharys, we are available to host any and all theme parties! Our seasoned event planners will help you plan the perfect party and will assist in making decisions pertaining to food, entertainment, decorations and more. We know that one of the most challenging parts of throwing a theme party is the decorating; that's why our party planners will provide creative ideas that can capture the look and feel of your chosen theme. Call us at 516-794-9770 to begin planning your party today!

Choose Zacharys To Cater Your Party!

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516-794-9770

If you're in the market for a venue that can host your special event, then you've come to the right place. Choosing a venue can be tough in the beginning stages of party planning, especially when there is a lot that your venue needs to be able to accommodate. That's where we come in! Here at Zacharys, we provide a catering hall with state of the art sound and lighting that can be available for a variety of events. We provide a unique atmosphere that is causal yet sophisticated and we can design a menu that will leave your guests wanting more. The following is a list of services we offer:

• Weddings
• Engagement Parties
• Anniversaries
• Bar/Bat Mitzvahs
• Sweet Sixteens
• Quinceaneras
• Theme parties
• Graduations
• Corporate Events

For each of these special events, we include an event planner that will help to select your menu, decorations, entertainment and more. As a catering venue, we pride ourselves on our ability to create a menu that is both exciting and spontaneous while meeting your personal preferences and needs. In addition to our delicious food, we are also known for our beautiful presentations, great service, and handcrafted desserts!

We also know that entertainment is key for any party; that's why we provide a DJ/MC that is available to plan every aspect of your party's affairs, including entrances, dances and more. Our layout includes a centrally located dance floor with seating around the perimeter. Services also include a photographer and videographer that can capture your special day.

Choosing the right venue is essential for your party to be a success. Choose Zacharys! For more information about our services, visit us at cateringatzacharys.com or call us at 516-794-9770.

How to Throw an "Around the World" Party

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Have you ever dreamed about traveling around the world? Most of us have dreams of visiting famous cities like London, Paris and Rome, but when we talk about it we often find ourselves saying the same old phrase: "one day." With an "around the world" theme party, you can turn your "one day" into "today" in just a few simple steps. Here are some tips that can help you plan a party that brings your vacation hot spot right to your door:

1. Destination: To begin planning your party, pick a location that you want to design your theme around. This can be any city or country that you've always wanted to go to. Also, try to pick somewhere that provides a lot of options for your menu, decorations and entertainment - this will help you in the long run!

2. Decorations: Next, research the culture you've chosen and pick out a few of the traditions or landmarks that best represent it. Then, find creative ways to incorporate them into your decorations! Lastly, don't forget to include the flag of your chosen country to your list.

3. Menu: Like you did with the decorations, do some research on the food one would typically find in your country. Try to find their most popular appetizer, main course, and of course, their dessert! For an around the world party, consider a buffet style dinner so that people can sample different kinds of food from the given culture.

Once you've figured out all of these details, it's time to outline what will happen during your party. Will there be a costume contest? What about the music? Every detail of your party should somehow be related to the location you've chosen and should make your guests feel like they've been transported to a foreign place. With just a little bit of research and careful planning, your "around the world" party can make you feel like you've finally been to the place you always dreamed of. Where will you go?

Choose Zacharys to host your theme party! We are available to provide an event planner that will help you plan every detail of your party and will focus on picking out decorations that will capture the look and feel of your theme. Contact us at 516-794-9770 for more information on how we can help!

How To Plan A Graduation Party

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The end of the school year is an exciting time for students in general, but it's even more exciting for those who are graduating. If this year marks the completion of your child's academic career at any level, you've probably considered throwing a graduation party to celebrate. With the ceremony just around the corner, it's time to solidify your plans and make sure all of your details are in place. The following is a list of steps you can take to plan the perfect graduation party:

1. Start with the "Who:" First, you must consider who you plan on inviting. Is it a family only event? Will you invite teachers, coaches, or school administrators that heavily influenced your child's educational experience? Some families even prefer to do a combined party with one of the graduates' friends if the guest list seems to be pretty similar.

2. Move on to the "What:" Next, figure out what food, decorations and entertainment you plan to have. Make sure you consider your budget and decide how much money you want to dedicate to each aspect of the party.

3. Next comes the "When:" This step can be tricky, especially if many of the graduates plan on having a party. Start by deciding whether your party will take place during the day or at night, and then move on to picking a date. Make sure to coordinate dates with other graduates to prevent the absence of guests who would have to choose between multiple parties.

4. Finish with the "Where:" Once you've decided when, it's time to decide where your party will take place. Will it be at your home or at a venue? If you're booking a venue, book in advance as to not get shut out of the date you want. For a venue that provides quality service, choose Zacharys!

A graduation is more than just a tradition, it is a milestone in your child's life that represents their hard work and dedication to learning. Celebrating your child's achievements with a graduation party is the perfect way to congratulate them and recognize them for all they have done. Let us help you plan your menu, decorations and entertainment to make this day memorable. Call us at (516) 794-9770.

Luau Party Tips

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Despite the lingering cold temperatures, it's officially the spring season and you know what that means - warm weather, sunny skies and summer just around the corner. But what if you could start the summer early? The good news is: you can! To wash away the winter blues and get into the summer spirit, consider throwing a Hawaiian luau party. We've collected the following tips to help you plan the perfect summer bash. Aloha! 

Invitations:
Send guests invitations decorated with tropical flowers and bright colors to set the mood. For added creativity, consider sending invitations in the shape of a sandal or coconut. 

Decorations:
To transport your guests to the Hawaiian islands, include decorations that represent Hawaiian culture. The following is a list of decorations that are sure to do the trick:

1. Tiki lights
2. Lei necklaces
3. Sea shells 
4. Grass skirt tablecloths
5. Bright colored flowers

Menu:
For your menu, select items that are typically associated with Hawaii. Examples include a cucumber salad, egg rolls, ribs, coconut or pineapple cake, and of course, a tropical punch to wash it down. If you're looking to stick with your own favorite foods, consider a buffet where you lay out the food in a tropical design. For example, present your favorite fruits in the shape of a palm tree. 

Activities:
To keep guests entertained, include activities such as sand art, hula hooping and limbo. If you anticipate a guest list full of children, consider a station where kids can design their own grass skirts or make their own lei necklaces.

For more luau party tips, click here.
 
Once you've decided on your party's theme (or even if you're still thinking), it's time to connect with a reputable venue. That's where we come in! At Zacharys, we are available to host any kind of theme party. Services include an event planner who will assist in planning your menu, decorations and entertainment. Celebrate the right way; call us at (516) 794-9770 today.

Wedding Favor Ideas

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As your wedding reception comes to an end, it's nice to give your guests a little something to take home to commemorate your special day. Although you've just given your guests a night full of delicious food and entertainment, party favors are a great way to say thank you and show appreciation to your guests for helping you celebrate. Recent party trends show that DIY favors are growing in popularity and are taking over the party scene. Not only do they allow you to personalize your favors by crafting them yourself, but they are also a great way to involve friends and family who want to help. For inspiration, here are some DIY favor ideas that you can use:

Caramel Apples: Caramel apples are a great favor for guests of all ages. First, attach your apple to a stick, then dip in caramel, and finish by coating with a topping! Guests are sure to go nuts for this super sweet favor.

Bag of Recpies: Give your guests a taste of the evening to take home; create personalized tote bags (wallet sized), and include either your favorite recipes or recipes from the evening's food inside.

Homemade Cookies: Food is always a great favor; guests love it! While you wait for your cookies to bake, consider decorating to-go boxes for each of your guests that will act as a cookie container and of course, an extra keepsake.

Wedding Flash Drive: Just because guests have to go home doesn't mean the party has to really end. Before the reception, create a flash drive that includes the night's play list as well as any photos or videos that you think reflect your special day. Don't forget to email your guests photos and videos from the night afterwards that they can download and save to the flash drive themselves!

Candy Bars: Whether you make the bars or buy them, there's still room to personalize them. Select a few of your favorite photos of the bride and groom, and print them onto lightweight paper. Then, remove the outer wrapping from the bar and replace it with your photo.

For more great wedding favors, click here.

When you plan your wedding, don't forget to choose Zacharys to cater your special day! Our services include an event planner who can help select menu options and plan your decorations and entertainment. Your guests will enjoy chic appetizers, towering culinary displays, signature cocktails and of course, your wedding cake!

A wedding signifies love and the bonding of two people who truly care for each other. Start your life together the right way; call us at (516) 794-9770.

How To Throw a "Time Travel" Theme Party

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516-794-9770

Have you ever wanted to go back in time? Say, to a decade from your childhood, or maybe even to an era from before you were born? If you're looking for a reason to celebrate with friends and family, consider a time travel party where you and your guests can venture back to some of your best memories or to historical time periods you wish you could've been a part of. Check out these tips for some inspiration to help you get started:

1. Pick A Time Period: Before you can outline all of your party's details, you must decide on the time period that your party will reflect. Once you've made a decision, design your invitations in a way that matches the time period to get your guests in the mood before they even arrive.
2. Suggest Costumes: To really set the tone, ask your guests to come dressed in costumes that match your party's theme. Encourage guests to be creative, and for some added fun, consider including a costume contest into the night's festivities.
3. Decorations: Choosing the right decorations are crucial for any theme party. Before deciding on your decor, do some research on your time period to learn about what was popular, and then come up with the materials that you think will reflect it best.
4. Music: A party isn't a party unless there's music. For your theme party, create a playlist of songs that were popular during the time period you've chosen and have them play throughout the night. For some extra entertainment, consider a game of "name that tune."
5. Role Play: If your guests are going to come dressed up, why not dress up as an iconic person from the given time period? Encourage guests to come dressed as a celebrity, political leader, or other influential person that really captures the theme you're going for.

If you can't seem to make a decision on a time period, remember that you can always ask guests to choose one of their own! For some more tips on how to throw the perfect time travel party, click here.

Here at Zacharys, we specialize in hosting any and all theme parties. Services include an event planner who will help you plan the perfect night and work with you to coordinate every detail of your party. At Zacharys we know how difficult decorating can be for a theme party; that's why we will help by providing creative ideas that will capture the look and feel of your party. Let us take you back in time - call us at (516) 794-9770.

How to Throw the Perfect Bar/Bat Mitzvah

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516-794-9770

If your son or daughter is approaching the age of 13, you're probably thinking about the preparation for their Bar or Bat Mitzvah. This is an extremely important time in a young man or woman's life, as it is considered their coming of age ceremony within their faith. After the traditional ceremony, a party is usually thrown for the guest of honor and it tends to be one they will never forget. So how can you plan the perfect party for your child? We've collected some tips to help you get started:

Plan Ahead: Begin thinking about your child's Bar or Bat Mitzvah long before they turn 12 or 13. By planning ahead, you set yourself up for saving money because you have the chance to book your venue and temple service in advance rather than at the last minute. Additionally, this allows you enough time to get all of your other details in place.

Theme: Most Bar and Bat Mitzvah parties include a theme. This can be anything your child chooses, but make sure it is something that you can incorporate into all aspects of your party. See our previous blog for some theme ideas.

Entertainment: Chances are many of your child's friends will be planning their parties around the same time; that's why it's a good idea to think of ways to make your party stand out. Rather than stick to traditional forms of entertainment, think outside of the box and plan something extraordinary. Also, pick an DJ that can cater to all your guests' music preferences, and consider hiring a photographer to capture the most exciting moments of the night.

Menu: Bar and Bat Mitzvah's usually include a buffet style dinner. Since most of your guests will be around the age of 13, include a kids buffet that includes popular food such as pizza, chicken fingers and french fries. To satisfy their sweet tooth, think about including a candy bar for a pre-dessert snack! And the good news? At Zacharys we offer both!

Most importantly, choosing the right venue is crucial in planning a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. Choose Zacharys for your child's special day! You will find everything you need to celebrate at either of our two catering locations. Services include an event planner that will help to coordinate each detail of your event and help you create a menu that caters to both adults and your honoree's circle of friends. We are able to provide gourmet non-kosher and kosher menus.

Call us at 516-794-9770 today!

How To Throw A Baseball Theme Party

CateringatZacharys.com

516-794-9770

In honor of opening day occurring this week, it's time to get into the baseball spirit. Whether you're planning your child's birthday party or are just looking for an excuse to have some good old family fun, consider throwing a baseball themed party to celebrate! To help you plan your party, we've collected some guidelines that you can follow to make your party a home run.


Invitations: Reveal your theme through the invitations you use. Choose a design that includes different baseball items, and use a color scheme that matches your favorite team. Lastly, alert guests if you'd like them to dress up in baseball attire or want them to bring equipment for a quick pick up game.

Menu: For your menu, include food and drinks that one would typically find at a ballpark. This means planning for hot dogs, burgers, pretzels, water, soda and sports drinks. And don't forget the ketchup and mustard! If your party is to celebrate a birthday, consider ordering a baseball themed birthday cake.

Activities: To get the full baseball effect, consider making time to play a game of baseball or have a catch. If you're looking to keep your party indoors, try laying out plain t-shirts with fabric markers and paint where guests can create their own team shirts or jerseys. Finally, if you know your party will include a lot of little kids, think about showing a baseball themed movie to keep them occupied.

Favors: Last but not least, make your party favors reflect the theme of your party. Some ideas including handing out baseballs, plastic bats, or goody bags that include other baseball themed items.

Don't strike out on your venue; choose Zacharys to host your party! If you're planning a theme party, we have everything you need. Our party planners will work with you on your menu and entertainment, and we will especially focus on choosing decorations that will capture your theme. Call us at 516-794-9770 to begin planning your party today!

Birthday Bullies: Keep Your Party Bully Free

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516-794-9770

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.