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May 6, 2016

Organizing a Company Picnic From Start to Finish

Filed under: Event Planning Tips — PDWriter @ 10:25 am

picnic cooler

Cubicle fever is spreading. That’s why organizing a company picnic needs to jump to the top of your to-do list. Whether it’s an annual spring event or you’re putting together your first outdoor employee party, we’ve got a few tips and tricks to make it the best work day yet.

Secure an Uncommon Location

Sure, the park across from the office is filled with flowers and cozy benches, but that’s already the daily noon hour hangout. Instead, rent a van or hop the train and shuttle the crew to somewhere outdoors that co-workers probably haven’t visited together. Is there a zoo in town? What about a butterfly garden? Or, an arboretum? Scan your city’s visitor’s guide online to get some ideas.

Splurge on Great Food

This year skip the potluck and order out. Having a company picnic catered takes the event up a notch by not putting any responsibilities on the staff. Think beyond boxed sandwich lunches. Maybe a favorite Chinese takeout or BBQ place is willing to set up a fabulous picnic lunch for your crew on a weekday afternoon. Just call and ask!

Plan Team Building Activities

After lunch, soak in the surroundings by challenging the staff to a few games that are secretly helping them bond and learn more about one another. Team-based photo scavenger hunts are a great way to make people work together. Or, offer a simple craft project that requires small groups and delegating tasks. Maybe your team can create funky original artwork for the office by painting canvases together.

Recognize Your Top Employees

Finally, finish up the company picnic with a playful awards ceremony — complete with upbeat music and paper crowns. Give shout outs to new employees who are killin’ it and to long-time workers who continue to advance and add valuable insight to company projects. Hand out colorful paper certificates and small gifts to really make the employees feel appreciated.

So, are you ready to start planning your company picnic? Start by picking a theme and brainstorming locations, food, activities and ways to make your staff feel loved. Both you and your staff will benefit from a relaxed afternoon away from the office.

April 26, 2016

10 Golf Tournament Prize Ideas That are a Hole in One

Filed under: Seasonal & Special Events Ideas — Tags: — PDWriter @ 10:12 am

Golf Prizes

Hosting a golf tournament is an excellent method for raising awareness, connecting with the community, and reaching fundraising goals. However, the devil is in the details, and one major detail to figure out is prizes to give away at the end of the tournament. Not to fret though, because these 10 golf tournament prize ideas are a hole in one…ba dum tss. 

Now get out on the green!

Golf Shirts

High quality golf shirts embroidered with your logo will become a mainstay of any golfer’s wardrobe. Long after your tournament has ended, participants will don your branded golf shifts when they hit the links, further spreading awareness for your organization.

Awards

Whether you hand out certificates or trophies, a physical recognition of the time people gave by participating in your tournament is a thoughtful golf tournament prize. Participants will place their awards somewhere others can see it so they boast about their golf game while talking up your organization.

Golf Balls

What golfer doesn’t need balls when they head out for a day on the links? Load them up with branded ones as tournament prizes they’ll always have a use for (as long as they don’t lose their swing).

Water Bottles

Golfing, walking, or just out and about for the day, a nice water bottle is something people hold on to forever (just look in your own kitchen). A reminder to stay hydrated, a water bottle with your organization’s logo on it will go with your tournament participants everywhere, subtly telling the world about your work.

Golf Gloves

Balls, clubs, tees, and gloves: these are the fundamental equipement every golfer needs before they step on to the green. When you award golf gloves to your tournament players, they’ll stash this gift in their golf bag and use them again and again. It might seem ho-hum but actually, it’s a gift that keeps on giving to golfers who regularly play.

Drinkware

Shot glasses, coffee mugs, beer steins: the only limitation is your imagination when it comes to this golf tournament prize idea. Take it one step further a fill these branded drinkware prizes with golf tees.  

Golf Bag Pouches

There are literally a million uses for these clip-on pouches golfers attach to their bags. From keeping track of cell phones to stashing a flask for a quick pick-me-up on the course, a golf bag pouch is a simple, useful tournament prize people will always use.

Framed Caricatures 

Cherish the memories (and those below par scores) with caricatures commemorating the tournament. This prize is particularly effective if you have a photographer capturing shots at the end of the day which can then be sent to a artist. Here are some examples. 

Umbrellas

An umbrella is an extraordinarily handy device that few people thing to have with them. From providing some shade to protecting from the rain, you’d be surprised how many people will appreciate receiving this item as a golf tournament prize.

Golf Gift Sets

Pack golf bag pouches with all kinds of goodies to make people’s future games more enjoyable. The sky’s the limit when it comes to the products you can fill pouches with, including but not limited to: tees, balls, ball markers, divot tools, sunscreen, chapstick, keychains, screen cleaners, bandaids, and koozies.

April 19, 2016

How to Run (and Promote) a Silent Auction for Your Non-Profit

Filed under: Event Planning Tips — PDWriter @ 9:10 am

auction

Community fundraisers not only get the word out about your cause, they’re also a sure fire way to pad your non-profit’s operating budget and fund vital programming. It’s a win-win!

Here’s a crash course on how to run a silent auction at your fundraiser and get your supporters excited about the upcoming event.

Schedule the Event

Secure a location and date for the silent auction.

It’s best to make it part of a larger event, so it’s simply one component of the festivities. Plan the auction along with a cocktail hour, dinner, activity stations (like a photo booth or fortune teller) and a live band performance to keep the night moving along while entertaining your guests. Since silent auctions require time to view, bid and cash out, it’s best to have it be part of the background throughout the entire event. Tip: To get bigger bids, pair the auction with an adults-only atmosphere that serves alcoholic beverages to loosen up your potential donors!

Collect the Items

Once the event is in the books, you need great bid items to lure people to your event.

Make a list of businesses you can approach in person for donated items or services. Think big and small! In addition to enticing weekend getaways and alluring diamond necklaces, don’t forget about baskets of confectioneries from your local homemade candy shop or a tote of puppy supplies from a pet store. Variety is key. You want things at various price points so you don’t alienate anyone who might like to partake take in the auction.  

Prep the Auction

Once you have boxes of goodies to auction off, prep them for the big night.

Each item will need to be numbered, photographed and included on a master list. Include this listing as part of the event program so attendees can easily scan the merchandise and then find the numbered item when they’re browsing the tables of silent auction items. Then, create a bid sheet for each item. This should list the item, its number, a minimum opening bid amount, what time the auction closes and have several lines for bidders to write down their bidding name or number and how much they are willing to pay for the item. The highest bidder wins! At the conclusion of the event, have a designated person notify each winning bidder and advise them where to pick up their items and pay.

Tell the World

At least a month before the event, spread the word! Your fundraiser is only successful if people show up. Here are a few ways to let people know about the silent auction:

  • Share a photo and description of one of the silent caution item on your non-profit’s social media feeds each day leading up to the event.
  • Explain how a silent auction works on your business blog.
  • Send printed invitations to your volunteers, donors and supporters.
  • Write a blog post that shares the details of the entire event, including the menu, ticket prices and entertainment.
  • Hang posters advertising the event at local businesses.
  • Book spots on local radio and television programs to talk about your cause and how fundraising impacts your non-profit organization.
  • Talk up the event to your friends and family. Encourage them to tell someone they know!
  • Offer complimentary tickets to your top, long-term donors. This gets them in the door to view the silent auction.

Are you ready to start prepping for your event? Paper Direct has elegant bordered paper that’s perfect for bid sheets and posters. Shop their online stationery store today!

November 19, 2015

How to Jazz Up Holiday Networking Events

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — PDWriter @ 3:11 pm

Jazz it up

‘Tis the season to mix and mingle! If you’re organizing a holiday networking event, make it a memorable occasion by adding a few personalized touches. After all, you don’t want bored employees burying their attention in their smartphones or ducking out early.

Set up a raffle. As each person arrives for the party, hand them a raffle ticket. Show them a few door prizes they could win, and let them put the stub in a fishbowl in front of the item they’d love to take home. A few gift ideas include an e-reader, weekend getaway package or a wine and cheese gift basket.

Offer free drink coupons. Liven up the party with a few libations. Print festive drink tickets for guests to redeem at the bar for a beer, wine, cocktails or a signature mocktail of their choice. Limit this perk to two vouchers per guest to discourage too much holiday cheer.

Coordinate icebreaker games. After everyone arrives, and are welcomed to the event, play a quick game or two to make it easy for people to meet one another. The host can ask each person to introduce themselves to the person to their right. Then, play a game of musical chairs where everyone mills around, then sits in a new place to meet even more people.

Hire background entertainment. A live band playing festive holiday music or a strolling magician is just what a networking event needs to keep the pace upbeat and lively. Or, consider hiring a photo booth so groups of new friends can snap pictures to remember the occasion. Earn bonus points by creating a custom hashtag for the event and posting the images to the company’s social media feeds during the party.

Create a business card challenge. Tell each guest to take out 10 of their own cards. In the next hour, they have to replace them with 10 business cards from new people they’ll meet in a speed-dating type set up where guests move from table to table to chat with others at the party.

Play an interactive group game. Bring back a blast from the past by playing a version of Win, Lose or Draw or Jeopardy in front of the group. A game show activity encourages communication between guests and chatter among audience members. Just be sure the topics for the games focus on the common thread or industry being celebrated at the networking event.

So, are you ready to let everyone know about the amazing event you’re planning? Print the party details on some festive Christmas stationery from Paper Direct. Browse their online catalog now!

 

September 10, 2015

8 Free Halloween Fonts Perfect for Invitations & Flyers

Filed under: Designing Your Invitation — Tags: , — PDWriter @ 8:23 am

Halloween fonts come in all shapes and sizes, and while most have one thing in common: spooky style, not all have another really important thing: readability.

There’s nothing worse than designing a flyer, invitation, or banner to find out that your recipients can barely read it. That’s why we’ve browsed and selected a few fonts that pass the Halloween test. Below are some of our favorites!

Free Halloween Fonts

Halloween Fonts

Here’s a showcase of each font and the downloaded .zip file that goes along with it. Simply open your .zip file find the text file and press “install.” It will be automatically added to Microsoft Word.

Ghoulish Fright Font

ghoulish-fright-font

Download

Green Fuz Font

Green fuz Font

Download

Kishore Sharp Font

Kishore Font

Download

NightMare Font

Nightmare font

Download 

October Crew Font

October Crew Font

Download 

Scary Monsters

Scary monsters Font

Download

Scream Again

Scream again font

Download

Words Are but Wind

Words are but wind font

Download

Halloween is one of our favorite holidays since you can take your creativity to a new level. Download these fonts, play with your invitation wording, then shop around for Halloween invitations or border paper. Your spooky party awaits!

All fonts courtesy of Dafont.com 

August 13, 2015

How to Promote a Charity Golf Tournament on a Budget

Filed under: Event Planning Tips — Tags: — PDWriter @ 9:04 am

Golf

There’s no doubt nonprofit organizations must undergo quite a bit of work to organize a successful golf tournament, however the results can be tremendous, especially when the event is properly promoted.

Promoting a charity golf tournament can be an expensive task. Advertising and marketing efforts can quickly dry up the funds a foundation has available. These tips can help a nonprofit best understand how to promote a charity golf tournament on a budget.

Use Volunteers

While many nonprofit organizations have paid staff, there is probably far more volunteers who are available to help promote your charity golf tournament. Reach out to your volunteer database to see, not only to inquire about who can help the day of the event, but who has marketing and public relations skills they are willing to donate to the effort. Other volunteers can take to the streets, handing out flyers in busy pedestrian areas and hanging up posters promoting the event.

Send Out Press Releases

Local news outlets are always looking for community-specific stories to cover. You never know what kind of media coverage your charity golf tournament might receive unless you send out press releases about the event. A simple press release takes a few hours to draft and submit to local news organizations. If you have a volunteer with experience writing a press release, enlist their help.

Partner with Local Businesses

Local businesses are eager to work with nonprofits in their area. Work with small businesses near your nonprofit on partnership deals. A great partner could be a neighborhood print shop that is willing to create all of your flyers and direct mail materials for little-to-no cost if their names gets to appear on these marketing assets.

Offer Discounted Sponsorships

Some local businesses might not have products or services that could help your golf tournament, but that doesn’t mean they don’t want to donate to the cause. In these cases, offer discounted sponsorship rates in exchange for their help promoting the golf tournament. Businesses sponsoring the tournament will want share their sponsorship with their own clients, customers, and audience to help bolster their public image.

Engage Social Media

Yes, you can pay for advertising on Facebook, Twitter, and other social networks. However, using the organic, unpaid power of social media can be a cost-free method for promoting your foundation’s golf tournament. Share pictures of and updates about the golf tournament, be sure to include clear calls-to-action in your post if you’re still in need of players, volunteers, and/or sponsors for the tournament.

June 19, 2015

How to Get More Sponsors for Your Charity Golf Tournament

Filed under: Seasonal & Special Events Ideas — Tags: — PDWriter @ 9:14 am

In a Constant Contact blog post from 2012, author Ryan Mahoney states that sponsors “are one of the foundational elements of your event because they add things that can draw people.”

We agree. If you’re planning a charity gold tournament, you need sponsors to give their support.

Rather than scratching your head wondering how to get sponsors for a golf tournament, use the following seven methods to aid your efforts.

Make It Worthwhile

When speaking with a potential sponsor, be prepared to discuss how sponsorship will benefit them. It’s important to keep in mind that while a business wants to help the community, its ultimate goal is leads and profits.

A company’s decision makers will want to know the target audience for the tournament, the results other business had when they sponsored the event previously, and the type of exposure the business will receive if they opt to sponsor the tournament.

One major factor that will help sway sponsors is large brand mentions. Make sure each sponsor gets multiple shoutouts- in the country club, at each hole, in the invitations to the players, etc.

Connect With Supporters

A charity already has lists of people who donate to, volunteer for, and support the organization. Reach out to them to let them know you’re looking for sponsors to participate in your upcoming golf tournament. Donors, volunteers, and supporters could have helpful suggestions for sponsors or could be interested in sponsoring the tournament themselves.

Knock On Doors

Yes, we live in a digital age. However, getting out of the office to speak with potential sponsors in-person is far more effective than sending out emails or posting calls-to-action on your charity’s social media channels. You’ll find businesses are more inclined to say “yes” when they are discussing sponsoring your charity golf tournament in-person rather than over the phone or via e-mail.

Community Outreach

Golfers love hitting the links, whether it’s for fun or a good cause. Promote your charity golf tournament at courses in the area and talk about the event to any of your golfing friends. Also, reach out to the community that takes special interest in your charity. If your organization works to end hunger, get in touch with local restaurants, food reviewers, and food wholesalers about sponsoring your tournament.

Target Like-Minded Businesses

For example, if your charity helps animals, speak with local vet clinics and pet supply stores about sponsoring the golf tournament. A business with related interests to your charity can use their sponsorship of the tournament as a marketing opportunity.

Get The Word Out

Social media posts, email newsletters, direct mail flyers, and custom signage are just a few of the methods your organization can use to raise awareness for your upcoming golf tournament. Additionally, promoting your event isn’t just a great way to bring in donors but a crucial method for attracting sponsors.

Finding Sponsors Where You Least Expect It

In the months leading up to your charity golf tournament, all you should be talking about to anybody is the event. You never know who you might be chatting up. The casual mention of a charity golf tournament to someone could result in a new sponsor for the event.

December 8, 2014

Christmas Party Planning Tip #10 – Christmas Playlist

Filed under: Event Planning Tips — PDWriter @ 9:24 am

Christmas Playlist

What keeps guests feeling upbeat and jovial at a party? Great tunes!

It’s time to think about a fabulous playlist for the Christmas party. To keep everyone content, choose a mix of classic seasonal songs sung by popular artists. Here’s our favorites.

12 Perfect Picks for Your Holiday Party Playlist

  1. All I Want for Christmas is You ~ Mariah Carey
  2. Do You Want To Build A Snowman? ~ Kristen Bell, Agatha Lee Monn & Katie Lopez
  3. Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree ~ Miley Cyrus
  4. Little Drummer Boy ~ Pentatonix
  5. Underneath The Tree ~ Kelly Clarkson
  6. Joy to the World ~ Chris Tomlin
  7. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas – Michael Buble
  8. O Holy Night ~ Celine Dion
  9. Last Christmas ~ WHAM!
  10. O Come, O Come, Emmanuel ~ Sugarland
  11. Run Rudolph, Run ~ Kelly Clarkson
  12. Baby It’s Cold Outside ~ Willie Nelson & Norah Jones
  13. Please Come Home For Christmas ~ Jon Bon Jovi
  14. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) – Michael Buble

Listen Here:

Give your DJ this setlist, then ask for extra opinions and professional insight. In the meantime, order thank you cards to give to your vendors at the close of the party. This week only, get 25% off all thank you note cards at Paper Direct.

Use code WCRT1214 at checkout to get this limited-time offer.

Then view our Christmas party guide to plan other aspects of your party!

Classy as Heck Envelope Seals

Filed under: Designing Your Invitation — Tags: — PDWriter @ 9:18 am

People have been sending written correspondence for hundreds of years. Of course, in the early days, there were no self-adhesive envelope flaps (or even the kind you have to lick). So instead, the letter writers of the past used a wax seal with their personal insignia stamped into it.

The seal served a couple of purposes. First, it made sure the contents of the letter stayed private. It’s pretty easy to tell when a wax seal has been broken, after all. Second, it helped keep the cost of postage down.

Prior to the 19th century, postage was determined by the distance the letter had to travel and the total number of sheets, including the envelope. So to save money, people often sent letters without an envelope. Instead, they just folded up the pages of the letter and sealed it shut with wax.

Wax seals eventually fell out of favor in the latter half of the 19th century when postage prices went down and pre-gummed envelopes were invented.

But still, even today, there’s something about receiving a piece of correspondence with a seal on the envelope. Seals add a touch of class, of style, of importance. Luckily for us, though, modern envelope seals spare us the headache of dealing with hot wax!

If you want an easy way to make a big impression, check out some of our favorite seals:

Castillo Deluxe Embossed Seal

castillo embossed seals

A terrific choice when you want a touch of old world sophistication.

Scalloped Deluxe Embossed Seal

scalloped embossed seals

Perfectly elegant and just right for special occasions.

Baroque Luxury Seal

baroque seal

Like the period it’s named after, this seal is beautifully artistic and exquisitely ornate.

Swirls and Leaves Deluxe Foil Seal

swirls and leaves foil seal

This seal takes inspiration from nature, giving it a down-to-earth yet refined feel.

Daisy Deluxe Embossed Seal

daisy embossed seal

For a more whimsical feel, opt for delightful daisies.

If none of these strike your fancy, we invite you to explore 100+ designs on our website. We’re sure you’ll find one that meets your seal of approval!

 

November 26, 2014

Submit your Embarrassing Christmas Party Stories!

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — PDWriter @ 9:16 am

Submit your Embarrassing Christmas Party

Have an embarrassing Christmas story? We want to hear it!

Whether its an drunken office party foul, family dinner gone awry, or a childhood memory that evokes fear and humiliation, we want it.

Go ahead, don’t be shy! Submit and we’ll publish and choose a winner right before Christmas.

Come on, you know you want to.

[gravityform id=”2″ name=”Embarrassing Christmas Stories “]

To get the creative juices flowing, here are some funny examples:

  • I showed up to our annual Christmas party wearing the same tie as another guy. (I’m a girl). So much for fashion forwardness.
  • I thought I was going to an ugly sweater party but it ended up being a formal party. I was too far to go home  and change , spent the whole night explaining what I was wearing. Very embarrassing.
  • We were having a little work gathering at a bar/restaurant for Christmas.  As I was getting up to leave, I put my hand on the corner of the small table to push myself up as I stood.  The table wasn’t that secure, and down we went!
  • I was young and went to a Christmas party with coworkers, and never have drank hard alcohol before.  I got tipsy and told a male coworker I had a crush on him.  He told me he was involved with someone, and he was not.
  • Years ago I was at a Christmas Party and I was talking to one of the most handsome guys that I had ever seen. We were talking and he said something funny and I laughed and when I laughed I farted out loud by mistake.
  • I got so drunk at my Husband’s Christmas Party that I invited everyone to meet at my house after the party… I got in bed throwing up sick and the doorbell starts ringing…My Husband says, “Who is that, did you invite people over here”?  I said, “Maybe I did”…I was so embarrassed and my Husband was so mad… they just kept ringing the door bell, saying “Hey let us in, lets party!”

Now Submit!

 

November 20, 2014

5 Lavish Ideas for your Company Christmas Party

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: , — PDWriter @ 2:24 pm

marina

There is an old saying that “being kind helps your bottom line” and that’s especially true at Christmas.  Christmas parties are the perfect time to show your appreciation and build bonds of loyalty with your employees.  They’ve worked hard so why not surprise them with one of these lavish ideas for the company Christmas party?

Rent a Museum or Art Gallery

If you are looking for a sophisticated and stunning setting for your next Christmas party, consider renting a museum or art gallery of the evening. Many of them have stunning, one-of-a-kind spaces they are willing to rent for parties and other gatherings at incredibly reasonable rates.

Rent a Boat

Harbor lights are gorgeous over Christmas and if you live in a place close enough to enjoy them, consider renting a boat for your next party and share the wonder.

This lavish idea for the company party is great for sharing time in a completely relaxed atmosphere while rejuvenating company spirit.

Country Club Party

There is just something so refreshing about putting on your finest and enjoying an evening completely away from work—even if it happens to be with workmates!

A country club is a wonderful setting for the perfect company party because it is already set up for luxury entertaining. In fact, most of the work is already done for you so you can concentrate on making sure guests have a wonderful time.

Casino Royale Party

A Casino Royale party gives your guests the perfect opportunity to dress to kill while enjoying an extravagant experience, a la red carpet and martini glasses.

Focus on Food

foodAnother lavish idea for the company Christmas party is to follow the foodie trend. Great food is an important part of any party, and many successful parties make it the highlight and part of the entertainment.

Find a celebrity or popular chef in your area and work with them to develop ideas. You can even hire two chefs and have a meal that is a Top Chef Duel style!

Industry pros all echo the sentiment that holiday parties are not just a courtesy, but an essential part of building a successful company culture. With these ideas for a lavish company parties, you do not have to spend a fortune to make a huge impression on your guests.

November 18, 2014

5 Out of the Box Ideas for Your Company Christmas Party

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: , — PDWriter @ 2:19 pm

Formal dinners and cocktail parties are great, but they are not for everyone. If the traditional company Christmas party just doesn’t fit your company culture, it may be time to think out of the box.

Celebrating the holidays can be even more fun and memorable when you mix in a bit of the nontraditional and even a little wacky into the festivities.

Unique ideas for the company Christmas party:

Joy

Host a Murder Mystery Party

Murder mystery parties are always enough to pique interest, but add in elements of Christmas and you have a winning theme! You can make it as serious or as silly as you desire and even have sub themes, like CSI, Monk, or Psych.

Christmas Karaoke

For an office Christmas party full of laughs and plenty of YouTube ops, try a Christmas carol karaoke party. Select the season’s best jams and get let the festivities (and the hilarity ensue).

Campfire Christmas

party-hatNothing brings a group together like a campfire, so why not set up camp and celebrate?  The theme lends itself to less fussy foods and an outrageously great time. You can even set up tents for those who might want (or need) to sleep overnight.

A Christmas Story

Center your Christmas party theme around one of the most beloved Christmas movies of all time, A Christmas Story.  Set in the 1940’s the movie theme elevates traditional ideas and makes them even more meaningful and nostalgic.  Don’t forget the leg lamp.

Speak Easy

Give your party a feeling of being forbidden with an underground or speak easy theme. Choose a secret location, give guests a necessary code word for entrance, and keep the lights low and the party seductively elegant. You can even have a “copper” break up the party and uncover contraband—cool employee gifts!

Now, with our unique ideas for the company Christmas party, you will want to get the Christmas party invitations out early and get set for an awesome time!

November 10, 2014

Christmas Party Planning Tip #6 – The Drinks

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: , — PDWriter @ 4:23 pm

The drinks

Celebrate the holidays, but do it safely! Since most Christmas parties include alcoholic beverages, have an action plan in place to keep employees out of harm’s way.

Things to Consider:

  1. Use drink tickets. Give each guest a set number of complimentary drinks via a ticket system to limit them to two or three beverages. If they want more, they will need to pay (which helps keep your budget in line) and make their own personal decision if they can handle more alcohol.

  2. Schedule a taxi service. Arrange a pick-up service with a few local taxi companies. Let guests know that taxis will be parked outside the party at a specific time to help them get home safely. If the budget allows, make this a complimentary service to all employees.

  3. Offer festive alternatives. Not all guests will want to sip the bubbly. Have the bartender whip up a virgin mocktail with fruit juices and soda for party guests who wish to abstain from drinking but want to carry around a colorful drink.

  4. Have a “Drink of the Night.” Let it either be thematic to your company or festive to Christmas and the holidays. For example, offer a Gingerbread Apple Christmas Cocktail. Recipe here:
  • 2 ounces of ginger liquor
  • 1 ounce of vanilla vodka
  • 2 1/2 ounces of Apple Cider
  • Twist of Lemon
  • Agave Syrup
  • Orange Zest

Or one of our other favorites the Christmas Cookie Shot. Recipe here:

  • 1 oz peppermint schnapps
  • 1 oz Kahlua® coffee liqueur
  • 1 oz Bailey’s® Irish cream

Keep the party lively by presenting each employee with a small keepsake gift as they enter the party. Try tucking drink tickets inside a water bottle or tote bag.

October 27, 2014

Christmas Party Planning Tip #4 – Order Invites

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: — PDWriter @ 3:02 pm

It’s time to tell everyone about your upcoming Christmas party! Don’t take the lazy route and send a text message or mass email. Keep things festive and personal by sending paper invitations in the mail. Here’s three quick possibilities:

Send and Seal Invites

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Keep things simple and use a tri-fold invitation. These compact greetings come in several holiday designs, from elegant to whimsical. The tear off segment is perfect for RSVPing.

Holiday Bordered Papers

[one_third]holiday paper[/one_third][one_third]Tropical santa Paper [/one_third][one_third_last]Holiday Paper [/one_third_last]

If you prefer to type up a one-sheet invite, use bordered paper. This colorful option is a great choice when you need to include a map or lots of text in the correspondence.

Christmas Tickets

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Christmas tickets are a great alternative for invitations. You can use them to enter your guests into a raffle or hand them over for a free cocktail at the restaurant.  Use these Christmas tickets for your next party.

week4-7-onPlace your order for Christmas party invitations this week!

Get 15% off our Holiday Border Papers by using code WCRT1014B at checkout.

Then read our entire party planning guide. 

 

October 14, 2014

Thanksgiving Table Setting Guide [Graphic]

Filed under: Event Planning Tips — PDWriter @ 12:41 pm

While there are many ways to set a table for Thanksgiving, we believe there should be a nice balance between elegantly formal and excessive utensils. Below is a Thanksgiving table setting graphic to help guide you this Thanksgiving:

How to Set a Table for Thanksgiving:

Thanksgiving Table Setting

As you can see in the above graphic, you’ll need a few things for a proper Thanksgiving including:

Dinnerware:

  • Serving Plate
  • Salad Plate
  • Bread Plate

Stemware:

  • Wine Glass (you can have more than one wine glass if you are serving both red & white)
  • Water Glass
  • Coffee Cup and Saucer (not shown)

Flatware:

  • Dinner fork
  • Salad Fork
  • Cake Fork
  • Soup Spoon
  • Teaspoon
  • Dessert Spoon
  • Dinner Knife
  • Bread Knife

Accessories:

Things to keep in mind:

1. Formal table settings take up room. If you have a small table, you may want to place the napkin on top of the salad plate or even beautifully bundle your flatware in a Thanksgiving-themed holder.

2. While you may think your guests will surely eat their pumpkin cheesecake with a fork, others may want to use a spoon. Try not to ax any of the flatware for this reason.

3. You can use a variety of stemware for beverages. These includes wine glasses, water glasses, flutes for champagne, or even mason jars for a playful feel.

4. If you’re interested in giving your guests something to take home, consider writing a heartfelt “Why i’m thankful for you” on the back of their place cards. This will give them a treasure they can keep until next year.

5. We didn’t picture a cup and saucer, though most formal settings include one. Towards the end of the meal when other plates and cutlery have been cleared, set a cup and saucer directly in front of your guests. This way they can enjoy coffee or tea with or after their dessert.

PaperDirect wishes all a wonderful and warm Thanksgiving. We hope this table setting guides you to creating a lovely dinner to share stories, while making new traditions.

October 13, 2014

Christmas Party Planning Tip #2 – Brainstorm

Filed under: Event Planning Tips — Tags: — PDWriter @ 9:22 am

Christmas Party Planning Tip #2

You have a budget in place. Your dream of having an amazing Christmas party is real. Now you need to find a place to host the event. Think through your list of friends and colleagues. Do any of them have connections at a local venue? Is there a location in your city that makes you smile each time you visit? Write them down.

While brainstorming potential party locations, you’ll need to keep a few logistical considerations in mind.

Keep in Mind:

  • What will the weather be like in December? Will I be able to use an outdoor venue?
  • Is the location easy for out-of-town guests to find?
  • Does the venue have services I may need, such as catering or a DJ?
  • What is the maximum occupancy at the venue?

Once you have the Christmas party location set, send festive Save the Date postcards to everyone on the guest list.

week2-onThis week, Paper Direct is offering 20% off all holiday postcards. Simply enter code WCRT1014B at checkout to get this great deal.

For more great tips, be sure to check out our entire guide on Christmas party planning.

 

June 27, 2014

The Ultimate Office Party Planning Checklist

Filed under: Event Planning Tips — Tags: — PDWriter @ 8:56 am

Cascade Specialty Flat Invitations by PaperDirectWhether your idea of an office party is hosting your company’s version of Michael Scott’s Dundies or simply relaxing with a can of beer and a slice of pizza, you’ll want to make a point of acquiring all the necessary supplies ahead of time. No, you do not need an entire party planning committee to complete the job, but the items in this office party planning checklist could prove useful:

A Good Setup

You work in an office, so you should have plenty of chairs and tables on hand for your party, right? Wrong! Your average office party is plagued by a lack of decent seating. Some partygoers may prefer to stand, but be sure to have a few extra folding chairs on hand, just in case.

Consider renting a few high tops so people can stand while eating.

Classy Conversation

At each table, place a funny photo or board game. This will get the party going and set people up for an awesome night.

Munchies

Office parties definitely need good food
Teamwork Clips Magnetic Sculptureoptions. Have everyone bring in their favorite potluck dish or recipe. Try holding a contest for the best:

  • Dip Recipe
  • Cookie Recipe
  • “Junkiest Food”
  • “Healthiest Food”

You can’t go wrong with chex mix or pretzels!

Prizes

What fun is a game if it doesn’t feature a prize for the winner? Your prize could range from something simple, like food, to a special privilege, like an extra day off. If your budget can handle it, feel free to offer something more extensive, such as a gift card or even a weekend getaway.

Beverages

Non-Alcoholic Favorites: 

  • Orange Juice
  • Coca-Cola and Diet Coke
  • Redbull (if you’re office is feisty)
  • Iced Tea
  • Gatorade

Wines, Spirits, etc:

  • Mimosas
  • Bloody Mary Bar
  • Local Craft Beers

Invites

Majestic Greens Casual Invitations by PaperDirectDon’t just assume that the entire office knows about the upcoming party. An announcement at your weekly meeting or inservice may be helpful, but you’re best off sending out official invites for the big event. This can take place via email or, if you prefer the traditional touch, with special cards.

Don’t turn your office party into a boring, awkward obligation; with the right supplies and, more importantly, an optimistic attitude, you’ll have no problem throwing an exciting celebration that will be talked about for years to come.

May 14, 2014

Creative Summer BBQ Invitations

Filed under: Seasonal & Special Events Ideas — Tags: , , , — PDWriter @ 10:17 am

Click for Details: BarbequeAs cherry blossoms fall and temperatures soar, it’s time to break out the grill. Bring people to your door this summer with an assortment of summer BBQ invitations from PaperDirect. You can print them out from the comfort of your office on quality designer paper, or customize free downloadable templates and have PaperDirect do the rest. Here’s a taste of the hot-off-the-grill products PaperDirect offers:

Personalized Border Papers

These fun flyers are sure to get noticed. Choose your message and print it on specialty designer paper, or design the flyers yourself and have PaperDirect custom print it for you. Designs include Grillin’, Watermelon, Barbecue and Picnic.

Fold-Up Invitations

Add an element of excitement this summer with personalized fold-up invitations. Just print, fold, seal and ship! Each box of 28 invitations Includes clear water seals and response cards. Choose from trendy designs like Picnic, Barbecue and more.

Summer-Themed Postcards

On The Grill Postcards by PaperDirect

Available in Jumbo and Standard sizes, these colorful two-sidedpostcards are sure to get taste buds tingling. Choose the style and count and get them hot off your printer. Or pick your own font, layout, logo and image, and let PaperDirect handle the rest. You’ll have to stop by PaperDirect to see all the innovative designs available!

Crescent Envelopes

Like a good steak, sometimes your invitations need an extra layer of oomph. In this case, it’s not BBQ sauce, but a well-designed crescent envelope. A perfect fit for folded border papers, postcards and other PaperDirect potpourri. Designs include the fun Watermelon Party, the classy On the Grill and the bold Red, White & BBQ.

BBQ Party Tear-Off Tickets

Get your special event off the grill and onto the Picnic II Tear-Off Tickets by PaperDirectplatter with personalized BBQ party tear-off tickets. With an easy-tear perforation, these tickets are add a professional touch to any event.

Want more ways to help your business stand out? Visit PaperDirect for summer BBQ invitations and more innovative paper products that are sure to kick summer off with a sizzle.

April 18, 2014

8 Fun Game Ideas for Company Picnics

Filed under: Seasonal & Special Events Ideas — Tags: , , , , — PDWriter @ 8:44 am
Barbeque Border Papers by PaperDirect

As the weather warms up, it’s time to start thinking about enjoying it with a company picnic! Choose from a variety of invitations r create your own invites on festive border paper and get your employees, and perhaps their family members, together for a fun afternoon outdoors. Help keep the party enjoyable with these fun game ideas for company picnic days.

Game Ideas:
Barbeque Border Paper by PaperDirect

1. Sack Race: This rowdy outdoor game will get everyone loosened up because it’s impossible to not look silly while hopping around in a sack. If you don’t have access to sacks, pillowcases work just as well.

2. Water Balloon Toss: There’s no harm in getting a little wet, and most people will in a water balloon toss game. Have people pair up and stand a few feet away and toss a water balloon from one person to the other, taking a step back with each successful catch.

3. Horseshoes: If your picnic area has a horseshoe pit, this makes a fun and casual game for people to play whenever they have a spare moment at the picnic. There’s not much as satisfying as hearing the clink of a horseshoe around the stake!

4. Bocce Ball, Bean Bag Toss, or Ladder Golf: These picnic games go along with nice weather and being outdoors. Consider building a branded game and give out prizes to the winner!

5. Three-Legged Race: If your group doesn’t mind getting a little crazy, pair off and tie your adjoining legs together for a classic three legged race. It’s amazing how well people can get along if they’re depending on each other to cross the finish line first.

6. Human Knot Challenge: Divide picnic attendees into teams and have each team get in a circle, put their hands in the middle, and grab two different people’s hands. Then challenge teams to untangle into a circle as quickly as possible without letting go.

Watermelon Party Border Paper by PaperDirect

7. Company Trivia: Get everyone together at the end of the day for a trivia game, asking about company history and fun facts. You can even keep the same teams from games earlier in the day.

8. Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest: This classic contest is fun for picnic attendees of all ages, even employees’ children! It’s also an easy one to play if you’re already planning to serve watermelon. Set up a starting line and mark the farthest seed each time with a golf tee.

With every picnic game that’s played at your company picnic, focus on having fun and getting to know each other in a context outside of work. If you want to heat up the competition a bit, shop for prizes and custom certificates for game winners, too.

April 2, 2014

How to Throw a Patriotic “Welcome Home” Party

Filed under: Seasonal & Special Events Ideas — PDWriter @ 2:00 pm

Patriotic Banners by PaperDirectServing in the military is one of life’s most honorable deeds, and feting returning soldiers is a cherished American tradition. Here are five patriotic party ideas to show love, respect and gratitude to your favorite vet with a “Welcome Home” bash.

1. Pay Tribute

Patriotic Vertical Banners by PaperDirect

Create a display as a testament to your returning soldier, his/her unit and others with whom they served. Include photos, letters, and other memorabilia. Encourage fellow guests to bring photos of themselves in uniform, as well as loved ones who served. Decorate the tablewith American flags and all things red, white and blue. The technologically inclined can also show a slideshow focused on the soldier’s patriotic journey.

2. Game On

While rigorously scheduling the party can detract from casual conversation time, planning a few games can help keep the party moving. Set out a table with cardboard cut-outs of Uncle Sam hats, glitter, pom-poms, streamers and other craft supplies, and encourage guests to decorate their own festive headwear. “Pin the Flag on Uncle Sam” and American trivia are also popular patriotic party games. And who doesn’t love a parade? Provide toy instruments, music and flags for children to to honor your favorite vet with a parade of their very own.

3. Festive Favorites

Camouflage Vertical Banners by PaperDirect

Most soldiers report missing out on the special touches of home while serving overseas.Prepare all of your honoree’s favorite foods for an unforgettable meal. An alternate approach? Serve an all-American barbecue with hot dogs, hamburgers and apple pie.

4. Say Thanks

No matter how many times you say, “thank you,” it’s never enough; but that doesn’t mean you stop trying! Give your guests the chance to collectively express their gratitude by offering an entry book or sign-in board where they can extend best wishes to the guest of honor. A personalized Welcome Home banner helps deliver the message in a high-impact way.

5. Capture the Moment

Don’t miss out on the chance to memorialize this special moment with so many friends and family members gathered in one place. Hire a professional photographer to capture all of the homecoming’s special moments. For a less formal take Freedom Casual Invitations by PaperDirecton this concept and one of our favorite patriotic party ideas, consider renting a photo booth. Stock up on patriotic props and costumes and let guests make their own creative photo ops which can be placed into a keepsake album for the guest of honor.

Welcoming home a vet is one of life’s biggest moments, and deserves an invitation which fully expresses the magnitude of the occasion. For an extra-special touch, enclose confetti or a small American flag within each invitation.

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