From Sweet Sixteen to Nifty Fifty, Milestone Birthday Party Ideas

Big birthday milestones deserve big birthday parties. Here are the best ideas for your next major birthday event

In our lives, we celebrate a lot of birthdays. While every birthday is an opportunity to gather loved ones and celebrate, some deserve a bit more flair than others. 

We’re talking milestone birthdays – you know, the big ones. The kind of birthdays that you just know you need to do something really special for. And if you’re the party planning type, you’ll probably want to plan a milestone birthday party, for yourself or someone else. 

From double-digit birthdays to 21^st bashes to 40^th celebrations and beyond (and everything in between), there are quite a few milestones that deserve way more than a slice of grocery store cake and a tone-deaf rendition of the birthday song.

If you’re in the midst of planning a special milestone birthday party, these ideas can help transform a regular gathering into a celebration for the ages (literally).

• Double-digit birthday

For kids, turning 10 is a big deal. Something about seeing two numbers instead of one is really exciting! So make it all about the number, 10. Set out 10 cupcakes, 10 balloons, make pancakes in the shape of the number 10, or incorporate the number in as many different languages as possible into the décor. 

• 13^th birthday

Your baby is finally a teenager! This is a special birthday because 13-year-olds are very much still kids, but they also want to feel like grown-ups. Do something that celebrates both sides of that – maybe a hotel night stay where you decorate the room and watch movies. Maybe a pool party that they help you plan. Or perhaps, a camping night right in the backyard complete with a fire and s’mores. 

• 16^th birthday

Put the sweet in sweet sixteen by hosting the most sugary birthday party ever. Set out bowls of candy as place settings. Have an ice cream social or a cookie decorating party. If the guest of honor will soon be getting his/her driver’s license, have car-themed decorations. You always knew you’d repurpose that old Barbie/Hot Wheels car.

• 18^th birthday

Adulthood is a big milestone birthday. Go with the theme of adulthood when you plan this one. That could mean lottery tickets (or at least pretend ones) as party favors or going to register to vote and then celebrating afterward. Have mocktails and set out a guestbook where partygoers can leave advice on being a grown-up.

• 21^st birthday 

To those eager to hit the bars, 21 is a big, big age. And guess what? Even if you’re a parent throwing a 21^st birthday for your son or daughter, the event can be surprisingly family-friendly. Go for booze-themed decorations (we love these beer pong cupcakes). Set up a photo booth with balloons and a decorative bottle of champagne as a prop. Give out fun party favors, like novelty shot glasses. Decorate empty bottles of alcohol with rhinestones and paint and use them as vases for the center of the table. Your new 21-year-old will probably want to go to the bar with their friends, but there’s no reason you can’t have a fun party at home, too.

• 30^th birthday

So many people dread turning 30 (it’s the end of your twenties!), so make this party a return to childhood. We’re talking unicorn-themed pool floats, piñatas, face painting, candy – maybe even a bouncy castle or at least a trampoline. You could also acknowledge the end of an era with a going-out-of-your-twenties-in-style party. What better way to do just that than by hosting a 1920s- themed event complete with jazz, gold decorations, and a flapper-inspired dress code?

• 40^th birthday

The key here is to avoid any over-the-hill jokes. Make this party a tribute to the guest of honor’s life so far instead by setting aside plenty of time for toasts. Have a barbecue for this important milestone birthday if it’s summer, or if it’s cooler, consider an indoor event with live entertainment. 

• 50^th birthday

Nifty fifty! Make this milestone birthday a retro affair with an homage to the 1950s. Put on a playlist of Buddy Holly, decorate in the style of an old-fashioned soda shop, and have poodle skirts and leather jackets on hand for photos. Another option for this milestone birthday party is to have a Fabulous Fifty celebration. Think glamour for this one: gold, glitter, black-and-white photos, and “Old Hollywood” costumes.

• 60^th birthday (and beyond)

With each decade, the party should be more and more special. Focus these milestone birthdays on connecting with family and friends in order to celebrate the birthday boy or girl’s life. Look to personalized decorations – photos, letters, slideshows. These milestone birthdays can be as intimate as they are significant. 

Catering for milestone birthdays

TooJay’s Catering is here for you no matter what milestone birthday party is on the calendar next. We offer party platters for gatherings of all sizes, plus a wide range of desserts including chocolate cake, carrot cake, cookies, and eclairs. Contact our catering team to get started planning your milestone birthday party.

The post From Sweet Sixteen to Nifty Fifty, Milestone Birthday Party Ideas appeared first on TooJay’s Deli • Bakery • Restaurant.

source https://www.toojays.com/milestone-birthday-party-ideas/

TooJay’s Restaurant Dania Beach

If you are looking for a classic comfort food to satisfy your hunger, TooJay’s Restaurant Dania Beach will provide you with exactly what you need. We recommend ordering the burger with chips and a glass of wine or just a plate of salad. These burgers delight your taste buds and you can take control and put them together on your own or from their menu.If you’re looking for something less than that, try one of the other options on the menu, such as the chicken sandwich or the steak sandwich.

We recommend you try the burger with chips and a glass of wine or just a plate of salad for a good appetizer or dinner.For something bigger, we recommend you try one of the other options on the menu, such as the chicken or steak sandwich. The dessert menu will certainly deliver, so satisfy your sweet tooth with a dessert like the chocolate mousse cake, chocolate ice cream or even a chocolate chip cookie.

You can choose from a wide selection of starters, salads, sandwiches, soups, side dishes and desserts, as well as some appetizer options.

We know that planning the right meal for an upcoming event can be tedious, but we have dedicated catering experts to help you plan the perfect meal. Our experts can make it easy for you to choose the best options for your next event. We have a team of experts who can help you plan your meal and prepare the food for the event itself. 

Whether you are a big corporate event planner or just want to celebrate a special life event with a few people, TooJay is there to help. Whether your event is too big or too small, whether it is a wedding, a birthday party or just a day of fun, Whether you are a small or large company with many employees, too many employees or just a little leisure time from work, contact us today and we will help you. If you choose Too Jay, you can be sure that we are ready to provide the only best possible experience for our delightful customers. Don’t be swayed by the fact that Dania Beach is the first town in Broward County to be known for its beach, sand and relaxation. Located on a well-populated beach in the heart of South Florida’s most popular tourist destination, and boasting one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches, it has everything you need to know about Florida. Check out the news from Channel 10 or Sun Sentinal to get the latest news from Danias Beach, and visit Accuweather to find out what the weather will be like before heading out to dinner on the terrace. TooJay has the perfect solution for all your needs when you arrive or stay at Hilton Garden Inn in Ft. There is no better place to get food than Dania Beach when you take off from Fort Lauderdale - Hollywood International Airport. Dania Beach, Florida, it serves breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner.COVID-19 has adapted its dining experience to ensure safety, and changed its food and beverage options for a more convenient experience. Contactless Curbside is available for online orders, as well as a bar with a wide range of drinks and appetizers. Find out how the Curbside experience works here, and learn more about terrace gastronomy in our blog entry here. TooJay’s Restaurant Dania Beach also offers online ordering and removal for your convenience, and delivery is also offered through their mobile app. The online ordering process allows you to plan your meal in advance and then select a takeaway or curb order at a time that suits your schedule. Delivery is during the day, at night or on weekdays, weekends and holidays.TooJay offers a unique loyalty program where guests can earn points for every purchase. You earn 1 point for every dollar you spend, and when you reach 100 points, you will be credited with 5 rewards. In addition to earning points, they also have special giveaways and special offers that make dining at TooJay extremely rewarding.You can sign up for the loyalty program online here, but did you know that the app is available for download in the iOS and Android app stores? Not everyone is familiar with this app, so it’s worth taking a look at who it is and you can download it for free.TooJay is the host of TooJay, a great restaurant in Dania Beach, Florida, with great food, great service and great customer service.The professional catering staff ensures the most pleasant presentation and the best service, which is crucial for the success of any event. The local Dania Beach catering team is responsible for the best food, service and customer service. TooJay’s catering contracts reflect the famous attention to detail and presentation of tooJay, and even deliver events. A delicious and festive dish that shows good taste, with a wide selection of delicious food and good service for guests.Pace up with a warm appetizer buffet that will satisfy even the most picky eaters, and learn more about our delicious catering options here. Choose meat to make your office lunch more memorable, or pack it on a plate and add to your morning meeting.For your immediate catering needs, contact our Dania Beach restaurant directly for a full service catering service or for more information on our catering options.

TooJay’s Deli • Bakery • Restaurant
131 South Compass Way, Dania Beach, FL 33004(786) 654-4100

https://www.google.com/maps?cid=5403584135754783933

https://www.toojays.com/location/dania-beach/

https://sites.google.com/view/toojays-deli-bakery-restaurant/locations/dania-beach-fl

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12 Tips for Hosting a Spectacular 4th of July Party

Plan double the fun for this year’s 4th of July party

Key takeaways:

• Decorate your yard with a patriotic theme
• Provide entertainment for your guests
• Set up inviting sitting areas
• Give out party favors
• Relax and let a caterer handle the cooking
• Contact TooJay’s for a tasty spread of food

Families and communities around the country canceled their 4th of July parties last year as the country shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic but this summer looks promising for a full return to regular summer living. That means your 4th of July celebration this year needs to be double the fun. Ready to start planning? This guide has all the tips you need to host a spectacular event. 

1. Make your yard comfortable and inviting

Help guests feel at home by creating comfortable and inviting places for them to sit in your yard. You can put out picnic tables or long folding tables with chairs for dining and consider setting up spaces that are comfortable for lounging. Make a lounge area with patio furniture or set up a shady tent and fill it with upholstered furniture. Ask guests to bring foldable lawn chairs if you’re worried about not having enough seating.

2. Make a patriotic tablescape

Remind yourself of the reason for the day by creating a patriotic tablescape. Integrate red, white, and blue in compelling ways such as with blue flowers in white vases on a red table runner. Complete your display with 4th of July-themed plates, glasses, and serving ware.

3. Hand out 4th of July party favors

Give your guests a fun souvenir so they don’t go home empty-handed. Consider small things like pop rocks, red, white, and, blue water guns, or bang snaps (novelty fireworks that make noise and don’t need to be lit) for kids. You may want to serve the adults red, white, and blue-themed alcohol like Fireball or Blue Gin, or consider giving them small gift certificates to local businesses. 

4. Make jarred s’mores

A s’mores jar is an adorable way to serve up this classic backyard dessert. Simply fill a mason jar with wrapped pieces of chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows. Then, pass out the jars after you eat and let people make s’mores on a bonfire. The jar also makes it easy to send the s’mores home with people as party favors if you end up not having a fire. 

5. Book a caterer

Give yourself a break from the cooking, save time on cleanup, and indulge in the best foods possible by booking a caterer. You may want to go for classic BBQ fare, but don’t limit yourself to traditional hotdogs and burgers. Instead, kick up your party a notch with hors d’oeuvres, tasty hot entrees, or decadent cakes.

6. Be proactive about your drink strategy

The middle of summer is hot and your guests will be thirsty. Get proactive with your drink strategy. Consider setting up a bar for the adults and a float stand for the young and young at heart. Let guests know in advance if your event is a BYOB (bring your own bottle) type of affair or take the burden off of everyone and ask a caterer to provide drinks. 

7. Get the kids crafting

Crafting can be a great way to keep the kids at your 4th of July party busy. A toilet paper roll, a plastic bag, and some confetti are all you need to make homemade poppers. Decorate the final results with contact paper, stickers, drawings, or other designs. Alternatively, have them make red, white, and blue wreaths by attaching colorful clothespins and adding star-shaped stickers to a plastic ring.

8. Play lawn games

Lawn games are a great way to pass the time and they help break the ice between guests who don’t know each other well. Consider classic games like horseshoe or badminton, or invest in an Independence Day-themed cornhole game. 

9. Decorate everything (including the grass)

Party decorations help make any event festive and you should include all the usual suspects such as banners, streamers, and balloons. However, you should also consider decorating your grass. Just grab some cardboard and cut out star shapes. Then, use that as a stencil as you spray paint red, white, and blue stars all over your grass.

10. Make a snap, crackle, and pop station

Everyone likes to snap, crackle, and pop to celebrate the country’s independence, and to help them out, consider creating a stand with essentials to make a little noise. Label containers with the words snap, crackle, and pop. Fill the “pop” container with bubbles and wands so your quests can make bubbles and pop them. Then, fill the “snap” container with snaps that you throw at the ground to hear a snapping noise. Finally, put some sparklers in the “crackle” container and watch your guests light up with excitement.

11. Plan a small fireworks display

Fireworks regulations vary around the country but even if you live in a state where you cannot use bottle rockets or other aerial fireworks, you may want to invest in some smoke balls, fountains, snakes, and sparklers. Remember to practice the right amount of caution and only have responsible adults use these fireworks. 

12. Mix in some entertainment

Games, crafts, and a firework display will keep your guests busy, but you may also want to plan a little extra entertainment. You may want to book a band or a DJ – if this is your first party since the lock-down, you should treat yourself. Alternatively, consider asking the kids at the event to put on a talent show or get your adult friends involved in an open-mic performance. 

Your 4th of July party celebrates the birth of this country but at the same time, it gives you a chance to celebrate your family and friends. Make the most of your event by incorporating the ideas above and most importantly, relax and have a good time. Remember that ultimately fun and relaxation are the true goals of your party. 

Contact TooJay’s to make the 4th of July as tasty as possible

Let TooJay’s handle the cooking so you can sit back and enjoy your much-deserved shindig. We offer a catering menu with options to suit any taste. Ready to make your 4th of July party tasty, fun, and indulgent? Then, contact us today.

The post 12 Tips for Hosting a Spectacular 4th of July Party appeared first on TooJay’s Deli • Bakery • Restaurant.

source https://www.toojays.com/4th-of-july-party-ideas/

Why Florida Loves TooJay’s Burgers

While burger love is universal, different states have different ideas about what makes a big burger. While burger love was universal for all of us, each state had to have a different idea of what makes a “big burger,” according to a new study. 

In a recent survey, Ranker asked more than 10,000 burger fans in the US to name their favorite burger. In Florida, the data also found a tie for the number one burger, with one burger receiving the votes of 15 states. 

It’s not surprising that many restaurants claim to have some of the best burgers. That makes it a challenge in Florida to find the “best burger in the state,” but not impossible. Especially TooJay’s Burgers.

A lot of research has been done on the best burgers in Florida, from the most popular to the least popular. TooJay’s Restaurant offers a wide selection of burgers, sandwiches and other foods, but its most famous is the burgers.

These are the winning burgers with bacon, fried eggs, pulled pork, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, tomato sauce and cheese.

source https://toojaysrestaurant.tumblr.com/post/651186580490420224

New TooJay’s Jupiter Florida Restaurant Page

Toojay’s Deli - Bakery - Restaurant

Jupiter Restaurant – Bluffs Shopping Center4050 U.S. Highway 1, Jupiter, FL, United States

West side of Federal Highway (US-1), one mile north of Donald Ross Rd. Patio Seating Available

(561) 627-5555

Daily: 8am - 9pm

https://www.toojays.com/location/jupiter-restaurant-bluffs-shopping-center/

About Jupiter, Florida

Jupiter is a beautiful coastal town on Florida’s southeastern coast located just 25 minutes north of West Palm Beach, FL. This picturesque town sits next to the Loxahatchee River and is home to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse. Located just south of Jupiter is the Juno Beach pier, a popular destination for locals and tourists wishing to partake in Florida’s beautiful beach lifestyle. Jupiter is also famous for the large number of celebrities that own homes along Jupiter’s gorgeous waterways. Every weekend these waterways are filled with everything from large multi-million-dollar yachts to paddleboards and kayaks.  

Top Attractions in Jupiter

1. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum
2. Juno Beach Pier
3. Jonathan Dickinson State Park
4. DuBois Park

Useful Jupiter Links:

For the most recent news in Jupiter,  be sure to check out the local news and to find out what the weather is like before deciding to dine on one of our patios; you can check the Jupiter Accuweather site.  

Serving Delicious Food in Jupiter

TooJay’s Deli in Jupiter is a great place to grab a bite to eat after a day spent exploring  Ocean Cay Park,  browsing electronic devices at the AT&T Store, grabbing some ocean gear at Local Surf Shop, shopping at Publix, or after a great workout at Gracie Barra of Jupiter. TooJay’s has the perfect solution for your everyday dining needs.

We are conveniently located in Jupiter, Florida, at 4050 U.S. Highway 1 in the Bluffs Square Shoppes, a quarter a mile west of the Juno Beach Pier and near the intersection of Marcinski Road and U.S. Highway 1. We serve breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner! Our menu offers a wide variety of delicious options, including classic deli favorites like our:

• Breakfast
• Soups and Salads
• Classic Comfort Food Entrées
• Burgers, Dips, and Sandwiches
• Desserts and other Bakery favorites

Dining-in with TooJay’s During COVID-19

COVID-19 has changed the way our guests enjoy dining-in, and we have adapted our dining experience to ensure your safety. These are a few of our safety measures that are in place in every one of our restaurants:

• All staff members are required to wear masks and receive temperature checks before beginning their shifts.
• Paper Menus that are disposed of after use
• QR code Menus available at every table
• Regular sanitation of high touch surfaces
• Contactless Curbside is available when you order online (view our curbside experience here)
• Outdoor and Patio Dining. To learn more about our patio dining experience, please check out our patio dining blog post here.  

TooJay’s Online Ordering for Take-out, Curbside, and Delivery in Jupiter, FL

TooJay’s also offers online ordering, takeout, and delivery for your convenience. Our online ordering process allows you to schedule your meals in advance and then pick your order for takeout or Curbside at a time that is convenient to your schedule! We also offer delivery through our 3^rd party partners like Uber Eats and DoorDash.

TooJay’s Delicious Rewards Loyalty Program

We offer a unique loyalty program, where our guests can earn points towards every purchase. For every dollar you spend, you will earn 1 point. After reaching 100 points, a $5 reward is added to your account. Besides earning points, we also have special giveaways and offers that make dining with TooJay’s extremely rewarding!  Our app is available for download on both iOS and Android app stores. We know that not everyone is comfortable with navigating apps, so you can sign-up for our loyalty program online here.

We are an Award-Winning Deli

TooJay’s award-winning menu has been acknowledged with the 2019 Best of Palm Beach County Award for Best Sandwich Shop and Best Dessert from The Palm Beach Post, 2018 Best of the Menu Tracker for its Nova Latkes from Nation’s Restaurant News, the 2019 and 2018 Restaurant Neighbor Award as a State Winner from the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation for its work with Feeding Florida, and the 2019 and 2018 Dining Award for Best Deli from Orlando Magazine.

source https://toojaysrestaurant.tumblr.com/post/651185350550716416

Yes, You Can Still Get Catering for a Last Minute Event

Last minute event? Don’t stress! Just read this

Last minute event planning. If you’re the kind of person who needs weeks – or even months – to carefully plan the details of a gathering, it’s a terrifying prospect. Sometimes, it happens because the person in charge of planning the event dropped the ball and the responsibility was passed over to you (you can thank your less-than-organized coworker for that one). Other times, last minute event planning happens simply because of the randomness of life. Your best friend’s boyfriend unexpectedly proposes to her and as her future maid-of-honor, it’s your job to throw her a party, like tomorrow. 

Whatever the case is, it’s easy to get caught up dwelling on the daunting prospect of pulling a memorable event out of thin air. But guess what? You don’t have to! Not only is catering still very much an option for a last minute event, but there are other tips and tricks you can employ to make the whole thing go much easier. 

The next time you have to plan a last minute event, take a deep breath, and do this:

• Relax – or try to, anyway

We get it, you’re stressed. Your boss just stepped into your office and casually said, “Hey, listen, you’re in charge of planning tomorrow’s big all-staff meeting. And make sure it looks impressive.” Suddenly, your heart is racing and you’re wondering if you should just quit, run away, and never look back.

We hate to break it to you, but stressing is only going to make last minute event planning harder. So take five minutes (seriously, all you need is five minutes) to calm down. You’ve got this!

• Get organized

Avoid the whole running-around-like-a-chicken-with-its-head-cut-off thing by getting organized before you dive into planning. Look at your budget. Gather the phone numbers and websites you need for any vendors or other contacts. Now, make a to-do list. This will help last minute event planning seem more manageable. Once you have a clear idea of the steps you need to take it’s time to get to work.

• Make sure time is on your side

In a perfect world, you’d have all the time in the world to plan every event. With a last minute event, that’s unfortunately not the case. Once you’ve got your to-do list made, the time to begin is now. This might mean showing up to the event space as soon as the doors are unlocked (or checking with venue operators to see if you can get in even sooner). If you’ve got at least a day’s notice, you may want to set up tables and chairs the evening before. Use all of the time you have. This is going to mean less sleep, but hey, that’s what coffee is for.

• Teamwork makes the event planning dream work

Now is the time to work on your delegation skills. You don’t have to do this alone! Look for items on your to-do list that you can delegate to someone else. If it’s a work event, there might be an intern or sympathetic coworker who can take something off your plate. If it’s a social event, ask family and friends to help. Try to delegate tasks to people based on their skill sets and what they enjoy doing. This will ensure that things get done the right way. 

• Don’t think big

If you’ve thrown epic theme parties and opulent dinners in the past, you may feel tempted to pull out all the stops with a last minute event, too. After all, it’s what you’re known for, right? So why not go crazy with decorations? Why not try to hire a magician or find an ice sculpture? 

Resist the urge! Now is not the time to be flashy. Look at the time and resources you have at your disposal and be realistic about what you can accomplish. A really great business lunch doesn’t need a DJ and a photo booth, we promise.

Last minute catering from TooJay’s Catering

Speaking of a really great business lunch, did you know that you can still get catering for a last minute event? It’s absolutely true!

TooJay’s Catering offers tons of last minute options. How many, you might ask? Over 30 menu items are available for same-day catering orders. When browsing our online menu, simply look for items with the clock icon next to them. This indicates that they are available for delicious, convenient, same-day ordering. Ready to order now? Place an online order today!

The post Yes, You Can Still Get Catering for a Last Minute Event appeared first on TooJay’s Deli • Bakery • Restaurant.

source https://www.toojays.com/last-minute-event-catering/

5 Tips for Sending Party Invites

How to put together an invite system when you’re planning an event 

When you’re planning an event, it’s important to create an organized system for sending out invites. Will you send digital e-vites or invitations in the mail? Who will you invite when factoring in the budget? How formal or casual will your event be and should your invitations reflect that style? 

Planning will smooth out the process. Giving your guests enough time to respond will also make it easier for you to plan the rest of the party. Here are five invitation etiquette tips for your event. 

Tip 1: Digital or paper? 

The first decision you have to make when sending invitations is the form they’ll take – digital or paper (by mail). This may depend on the style of your event. If it’s a casual luau, for example, e-vites would be fine, but a fancy wedding probably calls for an in-the-mail invitation. 

Digital invites are cheap (they’re usually free, in fact) and are easy to send out. They might not be accessible to everyone, though, if they don’t have a computer or smartphone. Consider your guest list. Will there be older or less tech-savvy people on it? They would benefit from a paper invitation. If, on the other hand, you’re confident that everyone on your list will see an e-vite and the style of the party fits it, email away.  

Tip 2: Choose an invitation that fits your event’s style 

Design your invitation based on the feel of your event. The font, colors, and design of an invitation can tell a guest right away what kind of event you’re having. When you choose a design for your invitation, think about something that fits the occasion and go from there. Have fun with choosing the color scheme and design. Whatever the occasion, the style of your invitation should reflect the purpose of the event and show personality.  

Tip 3: Choose your guests

When making a guest list, think of who you want at this particular occasion. Instead of trying to invite everyone you know, you’ll want to narrow it down depending on the size of the event and your budget. Different events sometimes call for different guests; for example, you may invite your great aunt to your wedding but not necessarily to a Cinco de Mayo shindig. 

Tip 4: Keep the invite’s content short and sweet

Your invites should thoroughly detail the “who, what, when, where, and why” of the event. Clarity will keep questions to a minimum. 

You may also want to include pertinent details such as a dress code if there is one. Keep in mind how you can serve the best interests of your guests so that everyone feels at ease and can enjoy themselves when they get there. 

Tip 5: Make sure to include RSVP instructions 

Once you figure out if you’re creating digital or paper invitations, you can choose how the guests will RSVP. On a digital invitation, the guest can simply click a button to RSVP while paper invitations will need to include an RSVP card with an envelope and return address on them. 

Typical styles of invitation based on events

At the end of the day, event invitations, much like everything else, are a personal choice, so you should choose them in whatever style you like. With that being said, here are suggestions for invitation etiquette based on two popular events. 

• For a wedding

Since weddings are usually formal, your invitations should reflect that. Paper invitations will work better for this type of event because it communicates the importance of it more than an email or text invite would. Important documents always come in a physical copy, so wedding invitations should as well. Planning a wedding involves many parts and sending invitations early with RSVP cards will make your planning process much smoother.

• For a birthday party

Whether it’s your seven-year-old’s birthday or your mother’s 50^th, birthday invitations can give guests an idea of the theme and formalness of the party. Emailing a fun digital e-vite would be perfect for a casual backyard party. This makes the RSVP process as simple as a click and easy for guests to add to their digital calendars. 

Share details, such as costume dress code, if you want guests to dress up for a certain era or theme. If there are last-minute changes, they can go into an update more easily in a digital form. 

Make your event shine with TooJay’s Catering

Whatever type of event you’re hosting, providing quality food for your guests is essential for a good party. TooJay’s offers catering services that have a span of options to choose from. Whether you need breakfast, lunch, or dinner, TooJay’s has options for each course and meal of the day. From sandwich platters to desserts, our catering menu has you covered. Call us today!

The post 5 Tips for Sending Party Invites appeared first on TooJay’s Deli • Bakery • Restaurant.

source https://www.toojays.com/5-invitation-etiquette-tips/

8 Ways to Celebrate Your Employees on a Job Well Done

An employee appreciation day is a great morale booster – and it’s also just a lot of fun!

Did you know that Employee Appreciation Day is an official holiday? Many don’t (and unfortunately it’s not a day off). Officially, Employee Appreciation Day takes place on the first Friday in March. It was started in 1995 by a guy named Bob Nelson. You might call Bob an employee appreciation enthusiast. He has authored many books on the subject and was so passionate about saying thanks to workers that he created a day for it.

If you’re reading this in 2021, you may have missed it – it was March 5. That doesn’t mean you can’t catch it in 2022, though, on March 4, or better yet, throw your own Employee Appreciation Day sometime soon. Why do this? Well, it’s not only a great way to keep your employees happy but it also makes good business sense! Retaining employees is less costly than hiring new ones, so avoiding staff turnover is always a smart move.

Stumped about how to throw your own appreciation day? These eight tips should help (spoiler alert: food is always the best way to show gratitude).

• Hold employee appreciation day during business hours

No matter how close your team is, few people like to show up for workplace events outside of office hours. That’s why rule number one when hosting an employee appreciation day is to do it during business hours. This gives your staff a break from work and shows them that you respect the work/life balance.

• Explore on-site and off-site options

Hmmm…now where to host your appreciation day? Take a look at what you’re working with at the office first. If you’ve got a break room big enough to host the whole staff, that’ll work (don’t worry, we’ll talk decorations in a bit). If you’ve got an outside space such as a grassy area near the building, that’s an even better idea if the weather is nice. 

If your office doesn’t have the right space, look to outside options, such as a nearby park, a restaurant with a private dining room, or an event venue.

• Don’t forget about remote employees

In today’s remote office culture, some of your team may be working from home. Maybe you’ve even got folks who work from hundreds or thousands of miles away. Don’t forget about them! Offer a Zoom link to the event and send a gift in the mail (or a digital gift card via email) to say thank you for their work.

• It’s all about the swag bags

Speaking of gifts, no employee appreciation party is complete without a token of your appreciation. You can give employees items with the company logo on them, such as sweatshirts or coffee mugs, or if you have a small team, opt for customized items (Etsy has some great options) so that each member of the team has something that’s just for them. If all else fails, sweet treats and gift certificates are never a bad idea.

• Decorate

This is especially crucial if you’re having your employee appreciation party at the office. You want it to feel special – you know, not just like another coffee break beneath the fluorescent lights. Hit up a party store and buy streamers, confetti, and maybe even a piñata. Buy or make a banner saying “thank you.” Keep the decorations colorful and cheery.

• Give out awards

One great way to say thanks is to give out awards. These can be serious or silly. Give a speech or write cards where you acknowledge specific achievements. You might even consider putting together a photo slideshow of some memorable events or accomplishments. 

• Bring in entertainment

A truly great party has that wow factor: entertainment. No, we’re not saying you have to spring for a celebrity appearance from a famous pop star (your accounting department would definitely not love that decision). Consider a local musician or comedian, or maybe a guest speaker. If you don’t have the stage or space for that, you could even show a movie. Who doesn’t like the idea of a plate of good food and a movie during the workday? 

• Say thanks with catering

Food is one of the best ways to say thank you to your hard-working employees. TooJay’s Catering is a trusted local caterer with 40 years in the business and a wealth of options that’ll delight everyone in your office. From savory lunch specialties to sumptuous desserts, nothing says “thank you” like a catered lunch for your employees.  Call us today to start planning. 

The post 8 Ways to Celebrate Your Employees on a Job Well Done appeared first on TooJay’s Deli • Bakery • Restaurant.

source https://www.toojays.com/employee-appreciation-day-ideas/

Fresh and Creative DIY Tips for a Backyard Wedding

Stun on your big day with these DIY outdoor wedding planning tips 

Key takeaways: 

• Create your guest list based on the size of your backyard
• Hope for sunshine, but make sure you have a plan in case it rains.
• Use foliage, DIY arbors, and string lights to create a festive feel 
• Consider long banquet tables to enhance conversation and optimize seating
• Help your guests relax and have fun with lawn games, a bar, and a lounge area
• Work with a professional caterer to provide delicious food

A backyard wedding lets you say “I do” in the great outdoors. It might be the backyard you played in as a child, shared countless BBQs with friends in, or created other sweet memories. Getting married in your backyard, your parent’s backyard, or renting an outdoor space benefits from a DIY spirit. You can strike a rustic tone, set up an enchanting tent, or embrace your own eclectic style. 

There are no limits to what you can do with backyard weddings, as the outdoor space is a perfect canvas to customize your big day. 

Planning your own or someone else’s backyard wedding and looking for ideas? Keep reading for 10 DIY tips for backyard nuptials. 

1. Size your guest list correctly

The size of your yard will indicate how many people you can have at your affair. Don’t overstuff your space or people might feel uncomfortable. Be realistic about how many people you can comfortably fit in your yard.  

Take the rough size of your backyard and identify how much space you need for the ceremony, the dance floor, the buffet table, or whatever else you’d like. Leave a good portion of space for the dining tables if you plan to have a sit-down dinner, and decide how many guests you can invite based on the number of tables and chairs you can fit in your designated dining area. You can be a bit more flexible if you skip the sit-down meal and opt for lots of hors d’oeuvres.

2. Hope for sunshine, plan for rain

You want your day to be as perfect as possible and that means planning for unwanted issues like rain. Try to shoot for a time of year when the weather is likely to be nice, but also make a plan in case the rain blows in. Have a backup indoor venue (your living room perhaps), invest in a rain tent or a weather-resistant marquee, and consider having ponchos handy. 

3. Pump up the foliage

Plants will help give your backyard wedding a lush and luxurious feel. Use small plants as table centerpieces, rent potted fruit trees for your tent, or add interesting plants and flowers around the dance floor. 

Make the most of your outdoor space by decorating everything from garden sheds to kiddie pools to decks to fences. It’s really up to you. Have an old clothesline, for example? Hang pots of flowers on the poles or wind flowering vines around the lines. 

4. Make a grand entrance

Welcome your guests to your backyard wedding by creating a grand entrance for them to walk through. Hang curtains from a metal frame, wind fabric and greenery around trellises, or create a rustic arbor with fallen branches and wildflowers. You can also walk through this entrance on your way up the aisle or use it as a backdrop to capture photos of your guests

5. Illuminate your backyard wedding with string lights

The right lighting is critical for a beautiful ambiance and string lights are gorgeous and affordable. Grab some umbrella stands or put metal poles into buckets full of concrete to support the lights. Then, place them strategically around your yard or use them to define different areas.

6. Utilize long banquet tables

Long banquet tables help you optimize the available space you have. They are great for conversation and you can customize them to create any look you want. Direct guests to their tables with an escort card display that complements the rest of your space. Use wood and wire to create a rustic look, for example, or integrate antique paper and baby’s breath flowers for a more elegant feel. 

7. Create a lounge area

Give your guests an area where they can sit, chat, and enjoy a beverage. Use patio furniture, plants, and hanging lights to create a lounge area. Alternatively, set up a glamping tent with comfortable upholstered furniture and a working chandelier if you would prefer a more luxurious space. 

8. Have lawn games

Create a fun vibe at your wedding with lawn games. Customize cornhole boards with your wedding date or special photographs. Take a note from a 1920s garden party and set up a fancy 2020s croquet game. You may even want to consider giant Jenga in your wedding’s colors.

9. Set up a backyard bar

Every backyard wedding needs a bar – even if you don’t plan to serve alcohol, you still need a stand for drinks. Opt for a traditional bar with a bartender or embrace the backyard vibe by turning an old fruit cart or antique pick-up into a bar. Complete the rustic feel by filling metal troughs with ice and canned or bottled drinks. 

10. Make the food spectacular

One of the biggest things people enjoy at a wedding is the food. Being outside doesn’t mean that you need to sacrifice quality at all. Reach out to caterers in advance to talk about what kind of food you’d like. Caterers have a lot of experience with backyard weddings. They can let you know the ideal amount of food you need to keep your guests happy and walk you through the logistics of keeping buffet platters hot, organizing wait staff to pass out hors d’oeuvres, and dealing with other dining essentials.

Let TooJay’s Catering make your backyard wedding spectacular

We can help you make your backyard wedding into a spectacularly memorable occasion. TooJay’s offers a host of menu options including hot entrees, hors d’oeuvres, cakes, and more. We can customize the perfect menu for your big day whether you want a sit-down dinner, light snacks, decadent desserts, or something else. We offer full-service catering, as well as pickup and drop-off. 

Ready to start planning your wedding’s menu? Contact us today.

The post Fresh and Creative DIY Tips for a Backyard Wedding appeared first on TooJay’s Deli • Bakery • Restaurant.

source https://www.toojays.com/backyard-wedding-diy/