Category Archives: Event Planning

Blog, Event Planning

Tips for Planning a Family Reunion

A family reunion is the perfect occasion to catch up on what families are doing, let cousins get reacquainted, and visit with far flung relatives. The gathering can be held in the back yard or at a posh venue. A successful gathering will depend on proper preparation long before the event takes place. Some family reunions are one-day events, while others take place over an entire weekend. Decide on duration early. Location The number of attendees will dictate location. That’s why it’s essential to send out notification of the event early. Even a year before hand isn’t too early. Once everyone has responded, it will be easy to plan everything from the location to the food. Activities and Amusements While many attendees will want to spend their time talking and taking photos, it’s always a good idea to include some games and activities. It can encompass simple games such as horseshoes, a bean bag toss or a scavenger hunt. A game of baseball may be welcome. Individuals can even choose to offer dancing. Portable dance floors can be rented and music can be provided via a band, DJ or through streaming a mix list. Food A catered event will eliminate headaches about the menu, but it can also be expensive. Many families take a potluck approach. It’s an opportunity for family to share their favorite dishes or award-winning recipes. Pot luck meals work if attendees are fairly local, but extra food will need to be arranged to accommodate appetites if long-distance relatives will be in attendance. Don’t forget to ascertain if anyone is vegan or has food allergies and share that information with others if a pot luck is planned. Tables and Chairs Ample seating and table space is critical, not only for a place to place the food, but for people to sit and eat. A rented venue will take care of those needs, but it’s something to consider if it’s a less formal environment. Comfort and Weather Storms and squalls can blow in at any time. Events at indoor venues provide shelter in the event of a storm and air conditioning for relief from the hot and humid summer weather. If the event isn’t at the host’s home or a rented venue, plan on renting tents and a portable air conditioner for the tent.

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Blog, Event Planning

Catering Ideas to Make Your Event Memorable

Buffet-style catering is by far the most popular idea for informal social parties. It’s also great for DIY people that enjoy cooking and the clean-up is fairly quick and easy. There are four basic types of catering – wedding, corporate, social and concession. Working with a professional caterer eliminates stress and they have multiple menus and options from which to choose. The type of catering will obviously depend on the guests and the specific reason for the event. A full-service professional caterer does more than simply deliver the food. They also serve it in an appealing way and provide the table service, along with tables, seating and décor. In many instances, a caterer can also book a special venue and provide entertainment if desired. Backyard BBQ There are caterers that can actually roast a pig or side of beef in the client’s backyard. BBQ style events typically have a western theme, but can also take on an international flavor. Tropical Bring on the tiki torches and mocktails. A tropical themed event can incorporate a variety of elements and dishes from multiple island nations. Retro Individuals can let their imaginations run wild with a retro party. Catering can accommodate food and décor from the 1920s to visions of ancient Egypt. A retro party can include themes from movies and TV shows. Toga Believe it or not, toga parties are still in style. They don’t emulate the sense of a frat house as in popular movies, instead exuding a sense of the opulence and decadence of Rome. Clean Eating Fresh, locally sourced menus take center stage to highlight these events. They feature menus that can be served in various ways and fit in with virtually any décor or theme. International For those that prefer an international touch, caterers can take a page from the Scottish Highlands, Bollywood and Paris to Britain’s royalty, a Brazilian carnival or Mexican fiesta.

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Blog, Event Planning

Outdoor Event Spaces Must-Haves

An outdoor event provides an affordable alternative to pricy venues. However, there are some essential amenities that the outdoor space must have and the South Florida climate also presents some challenges that will require solutions. Permits and Insurance At least one permit will be required, and possibly more, depending on the location, number of people that will attend, or if roadways will be affected by the volume of traffic. The permit is especially important when food or beverages will be available. Liability insurance provides protection should someone be injured during the event and is typically a requirement by municipalities for before issuing a permit. Individuals will have to secure the use of the property before applying for any permit and there may be time limits on when the application must be submitted. Bathrooms Whether its restroom facilities in a park or portable toilets, they’re critical. When portable toilets are used, they need to be strategically placed and in sufficient numbers that long lines and waits don’t occur. Pest Control & Sanitation No one can enjoy activities if they’re constantly being bothered by insects. The pests also have the potential to spread disease. Have a professional treat the area prior to the event. Be sure plenty of trash receptacles are placed strategically throughout the grounds and plenty of help is available to assist with clean-up and other details. Consider contracting with a professional trash service for trash receptacles and removal of trash. Food Whether it’s prepared meals or traditional carnival fare such as hot dogs, burgers and popcorn, people want to eat. They’ll also expect water and soda. That’s where professional vendors are invaluable. Running Water People need a source of clean running water for spills and other situations. It provides a source of fresh water for people if bottled water isn’t available and for service dogs. Electricity Any event will require access to electricity whether its held day or night. It’s critical for safety lighting, entertainment and food vendors. Keep a well-stocked emergency kit on hand. Phone Access Most people have cell phones and it’s a mistake to plan an event where service is unavailable or sketchy. Attendees won’t be happy and it may be needed in the event of an emergency. Tents and Canopies Tents and canopies provide shade from the sun or an unexpected rain shower. Seriously consider at least one air-conditioned tent, especially for infants and the elderly where they can cool off.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Blog, Event Planning

Fall Festival Entertainment

Public and private fall festivals are a tradition, providing a farewell to summer and celebrating the autumn season. Whether the event is held as a private event or conducted by local businesses or communities, there are some things to keep in mind. Consider the atmosphere to be created and think about the sights, sounds and flavors of a county fair. There are always certain entertainments that have a long line to be played. Equipping a fall festival with the right entertainment will result in a successful event.

Inflatables

A bounce house or playground for younger festival-goers is essential. There’s a myriad of bright and colorful themes from which to choose that will appeal to children. Adults enjoy competition and festival organizers can choose from an extensive range of obstacle courses, rock-climbing walls or a corn maze.

Mechanical Rides

For those that want something more challenging, consider a bungee trampoline, a virtual rollercoaster, mechanical bull, or a space-based interactive arena. There are also inflatables that enable people to test their skills at snowboarding, surfing and skateboarding.

Games

A range of games is critical and there’s an extensive selection from which to choose. Organizers can offer traditional favorites from skee ball, wack a mole, battle-ax game and ring toss to Plinko, basketball throw, connect four and football challenge. Photo booths are also available.

Music

A steady stream of upbeat music enhances the atmosphere and encourages individuals to have fun. Strategically placed speakers ensure that music reaches all areas of the festival grounds. Rock music is the traditional choice and it doesn’t have to rely on current hits. Don’t be reticent about including some “oldies” from artists encompassing Lady Gaga, Bruce Springsteen, Beyonce, Pink, Madonna, Aretha Franklin, Joan Jett, Christina Aguilera and Britney Spears.

Food

No festival would be complete without food. Virtually everyone enjoys a BBQ for a more filling option, but don’t overlook cotton candy, snow cones, popcorn and hotdogs for those that want to walk the festival while they munch. Don’t forget to have enough tables and chairs so people can eat and rest in comfort.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Blog, Event Planning

Inflatables are the Best Outdoor Party Entertainment

Outdoor Party Entertainment There are many reasons why inflatables have become the go-to entertainment option for parties of all types. They offer a safe means of providing guests with a wide array of games and amusements. In a digital age when fun and bragging rights are an integral part of online life, inflatables provide ample opportunities for social media posts. The range of inflatables is truly amazing. Individuals can rent inflatables encompassing water slides and mechanical rides to popular carnival-style games. They allow people to engage in friendly competitions and are available to accommodate all ages, interests and skill levels. One of the advantages of inflatables is that models are available that provide 3-in-1 opportunities rather than a single activity. People can try their hand at activities that include bungee trampoline, virtual roller coaster and rock climbing, along with multi-purpose inflatables for surfboarding, snowboarding and skateboarding. For those that have a competitive streak, inflatables offer multiple ways for guests to play and compete against each other in obstacle courses featuring multiple themes. Full-size inflatable lawn games provide an elevated level of fun. Party hosts can select from Zorb balls, 9-hole mini golf, and human foosball. People can book a dance/disco dome, inflatable sumo arena, human billiards, soccer darts, and gladiator joust.  Even the younger set can get in on the fun with Hungry Hungry Hippo, a bounce house and child-size versions of dry/water slides. Inflatables offer unique and interesting entertainment for any party. One of the advantages for guests is that inflatables level the playing field. Those that typically engage in cerebral activities are on equal footing with athletic types. Everyone wins with inflatables. Playing with inflatables is hungry work and there will need to be food. They’re not inflatables, but fun food machines can be rented that helps hosts eliminate hot kitchens and save time. Guests can enjoy everything from hot dogs and cotton candy to popcorn and snow cones with rentable food machines.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Blog, Event Planning

An Indoor or Outdoor Event? Things to Consider

There are many of the same concerns and details connected with an event whether it’s held indoors or outside. However, there are some major differences of which every host needs to be aware. The primary concern will be the comfort of guests, enabling them to enjoy themselves.

Budgetary Concerns

There’s a myriad of outdoor options that are free to use and they may even contain grills for a BBQ and playground equipment to entertain children. Be sure there’s ample shade, a canopy or tent for a respite from the heat and humidity. For those that will be renting a hall or other building for indoor festivities, it’s essential that hosts know exactly how much they have to spend. Indoor venues can be expensive.

Capacity Limits

Know how many will be in attendance and make sure the venue is up to the task in terms of space and seating ability. Keep in mind that there are often guests that won’t RSVP, but will show up anyway. Never rent a space sight unseen. Take the time to actually view the venue for space, functionality, cleanliness, and sufficient bathroom facilities. Amenities can be more of a problem at a free outdoor venue so choose carefully.

Entertainment

Older individuals may be content to sit and talk, while younger attendees won’t be so easily pleased. An outdoor venue allows for a greater range of potential activities, but bear in mind that permits may be required. An indoor event is limited in the array of amusements that can take place.

Weather

There’s no controlling the weather and outdoor events are at the whims of Mother Nature. Rain, wind and lightning will have guests scrambling for their cars since the majority of outdoor events won’t provide any type of shelter unless the host rents tents or canopies. An indoor event eliminates those problems and will be air-conditioned.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Blog, Event Planning

Pre-Event Planning: What not to Overlook

There are dozens of details connected with any type of event, whether it’s a backyard BBQ or an informal wedding reception. Even when people believe a particular detail has been addressed and planned for, they often discover that there are gaps or insufficiencies. The following are some of the most commonly overlooked details.

Guest List

Never rely on word-of-mouth and never issue a blanket invitation via social media. Always send invitations with an RSVP for individuals that may not be computer savvy and make it clear that all invited guests are expected to RSVP.

Food

People are going to eat and drink more than the planned amount and there will inevitably be more people than anticipated. Always plan on an additional amount of food. Many individuals plan simpler menus as a cost-saving measure. It’s far easier and less expensive to serve extra burgers, hotdogs and punch than prime rib, soda and alcoholic beverages. There will always be those that don’t RSVP, but show up anyway so be prepared. Always ensure that everyone needs to let the host/hostess know about any special dietary requirements ahead of time so vegan dishes and those that are nut or gluten-free can be provided.

Entertainment

Modern guests want activities to engage in and that’s where inflatables are an ideal choice. There are water slides, mazes and lawn games that will keep individuals busy for hours. Don’t forget music and the potential for dancing, along with any pertinent permits for music or serving alcoholic beverages if applicable, along with those for inflatables.

Liability

Most home owner’s insurance will cover injuries on the property, but there may be exclusions that leave hosts on the spot for expenses should someone be injured. Check the policy to identify what’s covered and keep a well-stocked first aid kit on hand.

Tents and Canopies

Any number of things can go awry, even at the most carefully planned event. The one thing that can’t be controlled is Mother Nature. Be sure that there’s sufficient seating for each individual so they can rest from the heat and humidity and plan on a canopy or tent where people can cool off or take shelter from any rain or storm that happens to blow through.

For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce house or waterslide rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/

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Blog, Event Planning

Throwing a Big Party in a Small Yard

outdoor event One of the best things about summer is the ability to gather outdoors with friends and families. However, for those with small yards and a large number of family or friends, hosting a summer bash can present some significant logistical problems. Before scrapping the party plans or limiting the guest list, consider the following ways to maximize the space.

The Grill

Choose a smaller grill so it can be moved out of the way once everyone has eaten. There’s a wealth of small, compact grills on the market that operate with charcoal, gas and electric. Individuals can also choose from tabletop grills and there are even convertible models that transform from a traditional upright grill to a hibachi.

Multiple Tables

Separate the food from the beverages on separate tables, each in its own space. It prevents guests from crowding around a single place and evens out the foot traffic. Instead of trying to offer a full bar, consider a single beverage that can be served in a pitcher and made prior to the event.

Seating

Forget lawn chairs in small spaces. The modern way to provide seating is through stackable stools. They’re inexpensive, require less room, and can be pressed into service as a small table when needed. Establish seating areas on the perimeter of the party area. It’s a method that enhances the flow and ebb of foot traffic and leaves room for guests to mingle in the middle.

Fire Pits

Rather than try to control a bonfire, which may be illegal in urban settings anyway, consider a fire pit. They’re available in multiple styles and sizes to fit any deck or patio, including portable models. Some are even equipped with protective glass. It’s an important safety feature if alcohol is being served, someone imbibes too much, and becomes tipsy and unsteady.

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Blog, Bounce House Rental, Event Planning

A Backyard Water Slide Can Save a Summer Birthday

Inflatable Waterslide It can extremely difficult to plan birthday entertainments for tweens and teens. They’re at an age where they want adult style activities and aren’t typically fans of themed parties. That’s where an inflatable water slide can turn the tide to create a stand-out birthday bash. The wide range of available water slides makes them equally appropriate for adults and younger children. There’s a water slide to accommodate any age group. Individuals can choose from a wide range of themes to thrill and delight younger children and water slides with multiple lanes are available to facilitate friendly competitions. Varying heights are offered, from models with an 18-foot drop to those with a 40-foot drop. For little tykes, individuals can choose models with a 13-foot slide and unique ladder that’s easy for small children to climb. There are also water slides that will deposit partiers directly into an inground pool. Inflatable water slides are highly portable and can be set up almost anywhere there’s enough room. The rental company drops it off, picks it up, and performs all the set up and the variety in waterslides is enormous. There are more than 70 models from which to choose and they’re an unexpected treat that guests won’t anticipate. There are endless ways to have fun with a backyard water slide. A waterslide provides a way for party-goers to stay cool and refreshed during the hot days of summer. An added benefit is that the vinyl is soft, so even if a guest bangs up against the sides, they won’t sustain a serious injury – an important feature, especially for children’s parties. Waterslides are an affordable option for injecting an extra level of fun into any event. Summer parties are typically held outside and when people get hot and sweaty, they get cranky. Party guests that are cool and feel refreshed have more fun.

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Blog, Event Planning

Dunk Tanks are a Crowd Favorite!

Go to any fair, carnival or water park and there’s sure to be a long line of people waiting for their chance to dunk the target in a dunk tank. They’re fun when participants don’t know the person being dunked, but it adds an elevated level of amusement and pleasure when the person in the dunk tank is someone they know. That’s especially true no matter what age group is playing. It’s just one of the reasons that the rental of portable dunk tanks is one of the most popular activities for any type of outdoor event. It’s classic entertainment that has withstood the test of time and is always a guaranteed crowd pleaser for creating magic at events ranging from home parties to fundraisers. Individuals can rent a portable dunk tank for home parties, along with school and business events. However, the use of a dunk tank is especially popular as a fundraising activity. The tanks require little room to set up, hold 500 gallons of water, and are particularly popular with non-profit organizations as they tend to be quite profitable. One of the advantages of a dunk tank is that it’s a family-friendly game that people of all ages can play. The average person can’t resist showing off their throwing skills as they strive to hit the bullseye that results in someone getting a dunking. A portable dunk tank is fun and will have people coming back time after time to try their luck.

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