Guide toSpecialOccasions
a blank slate media / litmor publications special section • february 20, 2015
S2 Guide to Special Occasions • News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015
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Over the course of their lifetimes, many a couple who feels the garter and bouquet people will be wedding guests on several oc- toss has become trite, there are other ways casions. During the height of wedding season, to create special moments in your celebraweddings can run into one another, as the tion -- ones that don't single out the singleformat and the festivities are similar at vari- tons who haven't yet found their special ous ceremonies. Couples interested in setting someones. Use this time to present a small their nuptials apart may want to enhance the gift or token of your affection to someone on wedding reception with a few unique ideas. the guest list who has served as a mentor or Who hasn't attended a wedding that source of inspiration. * Choose one special component as an seems formulaic? The couple enters, they do their spotlight dance, there's food, a bouquet extra goodie for guests. Some couples feel toss and then the cake cutting. Guests may ac- the more they offer the better guests will tually be able to predict what's coming next. view their wedding. Spending more money While it is often customary and easy to follow doesn't necessarily mean guests will have a tradition, that doesn't mean you cannot buck better time. If you want to go above and bewith tradition and offer a few creative ideas yond the ordinary, find one thing that you absolutely love and offer that at the party. to make your event stand out. Here are several ideas you can introduce It could be a flambe presentation, a chocolate or candy bar, into your wedding a carving stato add something tion with your special to the reall-time favorite ception. food (even if * Skip the big that's PB&J), or a entrance. Those carnival-inspired who were kind automatic photo enough to attend booth. the ceremony * Hire a live have already been performer. Alintroduced to the though it's hard newly minted to beat the perhappy couple. Informance quality stead of spending of your wedding the cocktail hour song being perin the isolation of formed by the the wedding suite, original artist, unmingle with your less you're cousins guests from start with Celine Dion, to finish. So much chances are she time is spent poswon't be availing for pictures or able to sing "My being out of touch Heart Will Go with guests, the Use the bouquets of the bridal party as the On" at your recepcocktail hour can centerpieces of some of the reception tables tion. However, a be a great time to as one way to bring something different to live band adds a sit and chat. Being certain level of with guests during your wedding. excitement that a the cocktail hour disk jockey may means you don't have to make that big entrance from behind not be able to provide. Those who are addclosed doors. Guests will have all eyes on you ing a cultural or ethnic component to their when you step on the dance floor for your wedding may want to hire a dance troupe or another type of performer, like a bagpiper, first dance together. * Dance to an upbeat number. Guests are as an added measure of entertainment for expecting a slow, sappy tune. What they may guests. * Let them eat ... cookies? Some people not expect is an upbeat song that shows you are willing to have a little fun. If you haven't just don't like cake. Therefore, why should a mastered the waltz but enjoy a little quick couple have to cut a seven-tiered white constep now and again, feel free to choose a tune fection? Towers of different types of treats that shows your excitement and love for each can be created from just about anything and serve as the perfect backdrop for that clasother. * Encourage couples to dance together. sic cake-cutting photo. A pyramid of cream It's often customary for the bridal party to puffs, stacks of brownies, a cookie castle, join the bride and groom on the dance floor or cereal-cake concoctions can work. Some midway through the first dance. However, bakeries will decorate a "dummy" styrofoam that leaves spouses or significant others wait- cake, and then you can serve apple pie a la ing in the wings while their dates tango with mode, if you desire. * Stage a costume switch. Let's face it, groomsmen or bridesmaids. Instead, don't have assigned partners. Rather, encourage dancing all night in a long gown takes some your bridal party members to dance with stamina. As the bride, have a more comfortable cocktail dress available to switch into whomever they choose. * Swap the garter/bouquet toss for for the latter part of the reception. It will also something more meaningful. If you're part of add some variety to your wedding photos.
News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015 • Guide to Special Occasions
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S4 Guide to Special Occasions • News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015
Choosing the right restaurant for your party any dishes, and hosts won’t have to find time to clean their homes top to bottom like they would if they were to have a party at home. Such a reality makes a dinner party at a local restaurant a lot less stressful for the hosts. There are a number of things to emphasize when looking for the right restaurant to host the next dinner party. PROXIMITY Whether entertaining family and friends or a business dinner, the restaurant where you will be gathering should be easily accessible to all people who plan to attend. A centrally located restaurant that’s only a short drive for guests and hosts alike is ideal, as it cuts back on the time people will spend driving to and from the restaurant. Try to accommodate those guests who don’t drive by choosing a restaurant that’s accessible via public transportation. Getting together with family and friends for a good meal is a great opportunity to reconnect and share a few laughs. Though such gatherings have traditionally taken place at private homes, today’s busy adults are increasingly turning to restaurants to host their mini reunions. Restaurants don’t require hosts and guests to wash
PRICE Perhaps the only downside to hosting a dinner party at a restaurant is that such gatherings tend to be more expensive than parties at private residences. Hosts should first determine who will be paying the bill. If everyone has agreed to pay their own portion of the bill, this gives you a little more flexibility
when choosing a restaurant. If you, as the host, intend to pick up the tab for everyone, then you might want to find a nice restaurant with reasonably priced entrées. A five-star restaurant might break the bank, but you might be able to find a three- or four-star restaurant that’s still elegant and more affordable. If each guest intends to pay for his or her own meal, discuss with guests how much they would like to spend before making a reservation. Once you have an idea of what everyone is willing to spend, you can start to narrow down your options. MENU The menu is an important thing for hosts to consider when choosing a restaurant for their next dinner party. Many men and women adhere to certain diets or lifestyles that restrict what they can and cannot eat, and you will want to find a restaurant that can cater to as many of your guests’ needs as possible. Discuss any dietary restrictions with your guests before you begin the process of finding a restaurant. If the responses are slow to come in, you can still go ahead with your search, but look for restaurants that offer vegetarian and gluten-free fare.
Your Special Occasion will remain one of the most special days of your life, so why not have your dress custom designed? Exclusive designs just for you. You’ll only spend a few hours in your dress, but you’ll be taking countless pictures so we know that looking your best is the only option. Let us use our years of garment design and alteration experience to determine what dress will look stunning on you. Excellent quality - guaranteed… Our goal is to make sure your dress beautifully complements your body in every way. From a perfect fit to custom patterns and cuts, you will appreciate our attention to creating detailed designs. All dresses made on premises… Wedding Dresses - designing dresses for the brides, mother of the bride, bridesmaids, flower girls • Special Occasion Dresses - Bar/bat mitzvahs, communions, sweet sixteens, proms, graduations, fashion shows, performers, female drag queens and more • Alterations - for men and women
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When examining the menu, take into consideration any offerings for kids if any guests are planning to bring their children along. Kids tend to prefer chicken fingers and fries over filet mignon and baked potatoes, so the restaurant should have some menu items for young children if kids will be joining in the festivities. ACCESSIBILITY When looking for a restaurant, try to find one that’s easily accessible for any older guests who might not get around as easily as they used to or any guests who might have a disability that requires handicap accessible seating and restrooms. Many restaurants can fill both of these needs, but it’s still up to hosts to ask in advance so all guests have a comfortable evening. The parking lot should not be too far away, but if it is, ask the restaurant manager if valet service is available for those guests who might prefer it. A dinner party at a restaurant with family, friends or even professional colleagues often makes for an enjoyable evening for guests and hosts alike. But hosts must consider several factors before ultimately choosing where they and their guests will dine.
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News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015 • Guide to Special Occasions
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S6 Guide to Special Occasions • News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015
Preparing a home for entertaining
H
osting a party at home is a cost-effective way to entertain. But inviting friends over can be a lot of work, as the host and/or hostess is responsible for all aspects of party preparation and cleanup. While party hosts often must wait until the day of the party to tackle many of their responsibilities, they can get a head start on preparing their homes for their guests.
THE CLEAN-UP It may seem counterproductive to clean prior to having everyone over, but it is a necessity if you want to present your home in its best light. The goal is to give the home the appearance of tidiness. Every surface need not pass the white-glove test, but attention should be paid to any rooms in the house where guests will be spending time.
Begin with the rooms that will be occupied the most. Ensure that they are free of clutter. If you do not have time to put every piece of décor back in its rightful place, simply put misplaced things in boxes or baskets and store them out of sight until you can sort accordingly. Quickly vacuum the main entertaining area and wipe down any dusty surfaces. While cleaning, pay special attention to the bathrooms, which will be subject to significant foot traffic. Spend ample time cleaning the bathroom because you want to present a clean, sanitary space. In the same vein, make sure the master bedroom is neat. Put on your best comforter and ensure the bed is made. Unless you lock the bedroom door, expect at least one guest to mistakenly wander into the bedroom.
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SEATING You will want to have enough seats for the majority of guests to be comfortable. Expect at least 75 to 80 percent of guests to be seated at any given time while the remaining guests mingle. Your regular furniture may be able to accommodate a number of guests. If not, bring in seating. It could mean temporarily moving out bulky sofas in lieu of folding chairs. If you will be serving a sitdown meal, then you will definitely need a seat and place at the table for each one of your guests. Buffet-style meals and finger foods are often the best option when table space is limited.
walkways and ensure that railings are sturdy so no one trips or falls. Make sure that there is adequate indoor and outdoor light if you will be hosting your event in the evening. If you will be inviting a person with mobility issues, make sure that the path between the entryway and the bathroom is free of obstructions. If you have a pet, keep in mind that some guests may be allergic to pets or uncomfortable around animals. In such instances, it is better to tuck away your pet in a quiet, out-of-the-way room for both the comfort of guests and the safety of the animal. Keep all exits and windows easily accessible in the event of an emergency. Make sure that fire extinguishers are charged in the event a candle or chafing dish sterno gets knocked over. Have a few seats available outdoors for smokers or those who want a break from the action. Preparing a home for party guests takes some patience and elbow grease. But party hosts can get a head start on preparing their home to make the day of the party less hectic.
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News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015 • Guide to Special Occasions
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S8 Guide to Special Occasions • News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015
What to look for when hiring a DJ songs, a DJ will have the original recordings or particular dance mixes that are familiar to guests. While the music is playing, a DJ may offer some type of entertainment, such as leading guests on guided dances or distributing toys to those on the dance floor. Some DJs work in conjunction with emcees or party professionals who mingle with the crowd and dance along. These people help guests overcome their inhibitions, encouraging them to dance and enjoy the party.
The success of a social event is often dictated by the activities that keep guests busy. At many parties, dancing is the primary activity. And as veteran party hosts know, who you hire to keep the music flowing and the guests dancing can make or break a party. When the party is over, guests want to remember dancing to their favorite songs and how the music complemented the event. A professional disk jockey, or DJ, can be instrumental in setting the mood of a party, helping to create a festive atmosphere while choosing the right songs to enhance
certain moments throughout the event. Here is how to choose a DJ that will fit with your goals and the scope of your event. WHY HIRE A DJ? One reason many party hosts choose a DJ is affordability. Disc jockeys are traditionally less expensive than bands, and a DJ will have access to a selection of music that spans various generations and genres. Some hosts prefer a DJ because they enjoy hearing the real thing instead of a band covering a favorite artist. Whereas a band may be playing their own rendition of
SELECTING A DJ When choosing a DJ, it is important to first get recommendations from friends and family or to witness in person how the DJ has performed at a prior function. It is always better to choose a DJ who has a proven track record. If guests walked away from a particular party with glowing accounts of a DJ’s work, then that should bear considerable weight as you make your decision. It is one thing to simply play music, but a DJ will need to establish a rapport with the crowd and recognize when to liven things up and get the crowd back on the dance floor. If you are employing a DJ from an entertainment service, be sure to request that a particular DJ be present at your party. Companies that farm out work to a variety of
vendors may not guarantee that a particular person will provide the music for your event. You may need to specify the name of the DJ you prefer in writing. THE MUSIC MIX Talk to the DJ about your preferences as to the playlist. Together you can work out a playlist that will accommodate as many guests as possible. The DJ also will help keep the party on track, alerting guests as to when food is served or when certain games or activities will be played. If ever during a consultation you feel that the DJ is not listening to your suggestions or is unwilling to play the type of music you would like, then this is not the person for you. Most DJs will listen to requests and make suggestions for certain songs that will fit in with the party theme. Remember to mention if any songs should not be played. Depending on the age group at the party, off-color songs or ones with explicit lyrics may be discouraged. In addition to keeping in touch and working with you on the planning of the event, the DJ should confirm your reservation and arrive early to set up. Carefully researching your DJ options prior to hosting a party can mean the difference between a successful party where guests had a good time and a dull event that lacked a spark.
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News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015 • Guide to Special Occasions
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S10 Guide to Special Occasions • News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015
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News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015 • Guide to Special Occasions
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S12 Guide to Special Occasions • News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015
How to connect with the right caterer
Party hosts take on a significant amount of responsibility when they agree to entertain family and friends. When such gatherings are especially large, some hosts opt to hire a catering company to feed their guests. Catering companies are often associated with weddings and
graduations, but such businesses also can be hired for less momentous occasions. Hiring a catering company for a home party is not necessarily the same as hiring one for a wedding. Couples about to tie the knot often receive a list of recommended caterers from the venue hosting their receptions,
and that list gives them a starting point for their caterer search right away. Such lists are not provided when hosting at home, but the following tips can help home hosts connect with the right caterer for their next get-together. * Seek recommendations. Just because there’s no wedding planner there to offer advice with respect to caterers does not mean you don’t have some resources at your disposal. Seek recommendations from friends, family and professional colleagues. If a coworker is tasked with planning your company’s events, speak with that colleague about the nature of your party and ask if he or she can recommend some local caterers who might be able to meet your needs with respect to both budget and menu. * Comparison shop. Even if the first caterer you visit presents an incredible menu that’s within your budget, it still helps to comparison shop, as the catering industry is competitive and you might be able to find an equally impressive caterer who can offer a similar menu for less money. If
your favorite caterer provides an estimate that’s considerably more expensive than the competition, try to negotiate a lower price with that caterer. Caterers are often creative enough to find something to work within your budget, but you will never know if you do not attempt to negotiate. * Ask if the caterer specializes in a particular cuisine or type of event. When speaking with various catering companies, ask each if they specialize in a particular type of food and if they are used to catering specific types of events. If your party has a theme, then find a caterer who specializes in foods that fit into that theme. Similarly, you will want a caterer who has experience catering your type of event. Many caterers can effectively handle a range of events, from smaller soirees like a child’s birthday party to more elaborate corporate affairs, but knowing how much experience they have with your particular type of party can provide some peace of mind. * Insist on a tasting. Once you have found the caterer you want,
schedule a tasting so you can experience the caterer’s menu firsthand. Many caterers offer an array of cuisines, and the tasting allows you to narrow down those choices so your menu is not all over the map come the day of the party. During the tasting, ask if the caterer uses frozen or fresh foods when preparing meals. Fresh foods are more favorable than frozen, and the bill likely reflects fresh food prices, so do not hesitate to request that only fresh foods are served at your party. * Get a contract. Every host’s nightmare is inviting friends, family members or professional colleagues over only to have something go wrong with the food. Avoiding such stress is why many people hire caterers in the first place. But that stress is only avoided when hosts get a contract in writing that carefully details what the caterer is providing and when food will be served. Read the contract carefully before signing to ensure the cost and timing of the party is clearly illustrated.
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News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015 • Guide to Special Occasions
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S14 Guide to Special Occasions • News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015
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Licensed & Bonded
Joseph Anthony’s Fine Jewelry
569 Plandome Rd., Manhasset, NY 11030
516-365-9591
Open Tuesday to Saturday 10AM-6PM
News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015 • Guide to Special Occasions
D
A Mineola Landmark…
AVENPORT RESTAURANT
36 Adults
95
Now Accepting Easter Reservations
19 Children $
95
under 10
dinner packages starting at…
$
prix fixe $ menu…
30
19
95
per person
Complete Bridal & Baby Shower Packages
$
30
30
95 per person
Sunday-Friday, Anytime Saturday Before 5pm includes: appetizer, entree & dessert
95
15% OFF
for holiday parties, rehearsal dinners, anniversaries, engagement parties, business functions or any other special occasions banquet rooms available for 20-120 people
Weekday $ Luncheon Parties…
RESS
• Aged Steaks • Prime Rib • Rack of Lamb • Pot Roast • Chilean Sea Bass • Sauerbraten • Bronzini • Fresh Maine Lobster • Fresh Seafood • Pasta Dishes • Daily Grilled Specialties • And Much More!
COMPLETE EASTER DINNER
$
P
S15
DINNER CHECK
95
per person
Call today to book your celebration in one of our private party rooms
70 MAIN ST., MINEOLA 516-248-8300
Valid for Dinner only - Sun.-Fri. anytime, Sat. before 5pm. For parties of 6 or under w/coupon only - Cash only. Not valid w/other promotions, on holidays, party packages or prix fixe menu. Exp. 3/31/15
70 MAIN ST., MINEOLA • 516-248-8300 www.davenportpress.com
S16 Guide to Special Occasions • News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015
LET US CATER YOUR NEXT PARTY!
Welcome to Greens Irish Pub! The Place For Your Special Event!! GREENS IRISH PUB has consistently been one of the best and friendliest places around to enjoy an evening out. Whether you need a freshly prepared homemade meal, or simply want to enjoy some live entertainment or sports programming, Greens is the place to be. We pride ourselves on serving only the best quality authentic American and Irish pub fare, and boast an extensive menu of fine selections. We hope you’ll come down and put our word to the test. Cheers!
Happy Hour Everyday from 4pm – 7pm Tuesday Happy Hour Special – 2 For 1 Beers and Well Liquor Drinks We can accomodate up to 70 guests for your special party. Catering services are our specialty!
436 Plandome Rd, Manhasset, NY 11030
TEL: 516-570-6220
News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015 • Guide to Special Occasions
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S18 Guide to Special Occasions • News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015
Where Taste Matters!
We specialize in customizing your bakery items for any special occasion
All Baking Done On Premises Featuring American & European Specialty Desserts & Pastries • Cakepops • Smash Cakes • Tarts • Cupcakes • Baked Goods • Specialty Desserts & Coffees
Pastry Trays for your event Cakes for All Occasions Breakfast & Lunch Served Daily 1200 JERICHO TURNPIKE NEW HYDE PARK, NY 11040
phone: 516-488-TART (8278) fax: 516-488-8276 Monday-Thursday 7-6, Friday & Saturday 7-7, Sunday 8-6
info@sweetartcafe.com www.SweetartBakeryCafe.com • Like us on
Tips for special occasion hair styles
Special occasions and parties crop up over the course of a typical year. Be it weddings, birthday parties or anniversary galas, friends and families often gather to celebrate especially momentous events. Part of the excitement of these events is donning formalwear or cocktail attire and enlisting the help of beauty experts to look your best for these memorable events. Experienced hair stylists and makeup artists can transform your look from basic to glam in a short amount of time, and women often rely on the professional expertise of cosmetologists to help them create the perfect party look. April Cornelius, a professional stylist and owner of the business Bridal Hair by April (www.bridalhairbyapril.com), says, "Usually the hair stylist and makeup artist work together and have an easy flow of the clients. They work in conjunction to create looks that are not easily executed by an amateur." For those with hectic social schedules, Cornelius shares her secrets of hair success to ensure you put your best face forward at the next big occasion. Preparation and party countdown Once the decision has been made to use a professional stylist to work on your hair for a special occasion, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure success. The first step is finding a stylist with whom you will have a good rapport. Ask your regular salon stylist if he or she does special occasion work, or ask for a referral from a friend or family member who has used someone in the past. Cornelius warns against taking drastic measures with your hair within two to three weeks of the event. "Try not to schedule a cut or color right before the party," she says. "Otherwise you may be stuck with a color or shorter cut than what you wanted. Also, spend time in advance to talk to your stylist about suggested cuts and colors that may enhance your hairdo." Once you get your gown, hair accessories and veil, schedule a trial run so that the stylist can walk you through different options. "Hair styles are usually based on the type of dress you are wearing, and the stylist can suggest different things," says Cornelius. "If you choose a style that requires more or longer hair, the stylist can often adjust by using temporary hair extensions that are not easily detected." Cornelius notes that women with short hair need not worry about having a hairstyle that looks formal and fashionable. "Short hair is easy to style. I like to use side parts and maybe some height at the crown. Using fun, stylish clips, curls, and headbands are additional ways to dress up the look." The day of the event Few things can complicate a style further than not being ready for the stylist or using products on your hair that are not conducive to keeping the hair set.
"Hair should not be washed any less than one day before the appointment," says Cornelius. "It is essential that the hair be completely dry before the stylist gets there in order to make the process run more smoothly. He or she cannot spend extra time blowdrying the hair, and if it needs to be done it could incur an extra cost." It is adviseable to use mousse or hair spray in the hair because they will help set the hairstyle. Avoid the use of hair serums or frizz-fighting oils that can cause hair pins or curls not to hold well. In most cases, a stylist will come equipped with the items he or she needs. If you have discussed any special hair accoutrements, such as rhinestones, beads or clips, have them at the ready. It can take about an hour to do a hairstyle, and if the stylist is working with more than one person for the party, it is important to be on time for your appointment, or be home if the stylist is coming to you. Other handy tips Cornelius shares more first-hand tips that can also make styling go more smoothly. * If you have very curly hair and need it smooth and prepped for your stylist on your appointment date, try going to a hair salon the day before and have it professionally blown out. * Print out or bring a magazine clipping to illustrate what type of style you want. Small pictures viewed on a mobile phone are not enough for a stylist to rely on. * Bring fun accessories, including cobs, pins, or clips, to enhance your style. * Wear a button- or zip-down shirt for easy unrobing after your style is done. You don't want to have to pull anything over your head. * Go to a stylist someone you trust has recommended. You don't want to put a special event style into the hands of someone you don't know.
News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015 • Guide to Special Occasions
Flowers Say It All…
BRING YOUR EVENT TO LIFE Weddings Mitzvahs Milestones Corporate Parties Holiday Table Arrangements
Metro
F L O R A L D E C O R AT O R S
574 Middle Neck Road, Great Neck, NY 11025 516.466.6151 / 718.777.1435 www.metrofloraldesigns.com Free delivery on Valentine's Day orders Feb 13th and 14th in Manhasset, Roslyn, Great Neck, New Hyde Park and the Willistons
@Metro Floral Decorators
@Metrofloral
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S20 Guide to Special Occasions • News Times Newspapers, Friday, February 20, 2015