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Holiday Party Planning Checklist

Bergen Linen is here to help you this season with our holiday party planning checklist!

Hosting a memorable party for friends and family is the ultimate way to spread cheer. Of course, corporate and other festive events are just as special! While the idea of planning a celebration can seem daunting, it’s usually because you’re not sure where to start. Fret not! We’ve crafted the ultimate holiday party planning checklist to ensure your event goes off without a hitch, leaving you with more time to enjoy the festivities.

When to Start Planning

Before getting into the actual to-do party planning checklist, let’s take a look at the best practices in regards to timing. When it’s possible, it’s advisable to start planning weeks in advance to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.  Of course, outside factors or demands can leave you scrambling last minute (not fun!).

Holiday Party Planning Timeline

  • Early Fall (around 2-3 months prior to the event)
    • Determine theme, date, and time
    • Research event spaces
    • Establish general guest count
  • 8-10 Weeks Prior
    • Finalize the date, time and venue
    • Design and send out party invitations
    • Start brainstorming theme, party supplies,  decor, and menu
  • 6-8 Weeks Before
    • Confirm RSVPs (and make any guest count adjustments)
    • Start shopping/placing orders for decor, guest favors, etc.
    • Finish hiring any necessary vendors or service such as catering company, entertainment, videographer, etc.
  • 4-6 Weeks Before
    • Taste test (if you haven’t already) and determine menu
    • Order any remaining specialty items
    • Do a final review of any specific dietary preferences or restrictions
  • 2-4 Weeks Before
    • Confirm arrival times
      • Catering company
      • Set-up crew/committee
      • Videographer and photographer
    • Cross-off any last to-dos
  • 1-2 Weeks Before
    • Follow up with any guests who haven’t RSVP’d
    • Do a final check of all decorations, supplies, and technical equipment
    • Review your day-of-party schedule
  •  Days Before
    • Confirm final numbers with your catering company, venue, and/or rental provider
  •  Party Day
    • Venue set-up
    • Be ready to greet guests

Stress-free Holiday Party Checklist

Depending on the size of your holiday season event, you may want to enlist some extra hands. For larger events, party planning committees will be very helpful. Each committee should have its own lead to keep communication flowing smoothly. This will be extremely useful on the day of the party.

  • Determine Your Budget
    • Your budget will be your guide for everything from party size to activities.
  • Set the Date and Time
    • Choose a date that works for you, your guests, AND is available.
    • Decide on a start and end time for the party.
      • This will most likely also determine your dress code and type of party.
      • If this is a work event, allow ample time for co-workers to prepare.
  • Create the Guest List
    • Compile a list of friends, family, or other guests you’d like to invite.
    • Keep in mind your budget and event capacity.
  • Choose a Theme
    • Decide if you want a specific theme including dress code.
    • Plan decorations, party favors, menu, and party games that align with the chosen theme.
  • Send Invitations
    • Send out invitations well in advance (digital or traditional).
      • Include event details like the date, time, location, dress code, and RSVP information.
  • Plan the Menu:
    • Design a menu that caters to different dietary preferences.
      • If you have a theme, be sure to include some fun menu items.
    • Depending on the type of event, decide between catering, potluck-style, or DIY cooking.
  • Arrange the Bar
    • Plan a selection of beverages, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic option.  Ensure you have enough glassware, ice, and mixers.
    • Set up a designated area for the bar – and decide if a bartender(s) is needed.
  • Decorate the Venue
    • Purchase and/or choose festive decorations that align with your chosen theme.
    • This is the ideal time to place your party linen rental order. Planning a company holiday party; it would be ideal to work in your brand colors and/or logo.
    • Pay attention to lighting, table settings, and other festive touches in your party space.
  • Create a Party Playlist
    • Even if you hire a DJ or band, it is important to decide on a general playlist.
      • Be sure to include a mix of holiday classics and upbeat tunes.
  • Plan Activities and Entertainment
    • Organize games or other fun activities to keep guests engaged.
    • Sign off on contracts for your musical entertainment such as a DJ or band.
    • Look into a photo booth, photograph, or videographer.
    • For work events, you may be including various speakers (internal or specialty). This may also require a podium and audio visual equipment.
  • Set Up a Coat Check
    • In our New York area, a holiday party will need to offer a coat check. (It is also a good time to consider the car valet situation.)
  • Prepare a Backup Plan
    • Crucial in party prep – be ready for unexpected changes in weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
  • Review Last Minute Essentials
    • Review your checklist including: entertainment, party decorations, party support, menu options, technical equipment, etc.
  • Confirm RSVPs
    • Follow up with guests who haven’t responded to the invitations. (You may need to let your venue or catering company know.)
  • Relax and Enjoy Your Party Day
    • If you have a committee or party helpers, meet with them in advance to review those finishing details.
    • Once everything is set up, take a deep breath and enjoy your holiday party fun.

Making the Most of Your Memorable Event

Even with the most party preparation, some details are going to go awry. Whether it be a vendor arriving late or bad weather, you have to be very to go with the flow. Adapting is not easy, but preparing mentally ahead of time can help.

And with whatever type of holiday party you are planning, we always suggest begin researching early. By looking at ideas, you may find inspiration leads to quicker decisions pertaining to themes, venues, entertainment, and more.

With this comprehensive holiday party planning checklist in hand, you’re well on your way to hosting a festive and stress-free event! And if you need party linens, place your order today. A Bergen Linen team member is here to walk you through your options.

Waist Apron : November Spotlight

Spotlight on the restaurant waist apron – one may say the perfect apron.

Waist aprons are ideal for many restaurants and catering venues. Due to their versatility, this kitchen and server essential is ideal for so many reasons.

These durable aprons shield uniforms and chef wear from stains, spills, and other kitchen mishaps. In addition, they contribute to a well-polished and professional appearance; this is beneficial to both front-of-house and back-of-house teams.

Request a quote today.

The Mighty Waist Apron

With various styles and colors available, these waist aprons provide an opportunity for branding and cohesion to further compliment your restaurant’s aesthetic.

Additionally, the optional pockets serve as convenient storage for bar mops, pens, order pads, and more. 

Quick Facts

  • Range from 11” to 34” long
  • Practical secure waist ties
  • Typically polyester or a cotton blend
  • Quality stitching for durability
  • With or without pockets available

In the hospitality industry, restaurant aprons are indispensable in the culinary world. As you may have guessed, waist aprons start fittingly…at the waist*. While they do not offer any upper body coverage, this style is still very popular in many dining spaces. Of course, Bergen Linen offers a wide range of aprons, server wear, and chef uniforms as well. 

*Medium and longer waist apron styles (also called bistro aprons) are often worn by chefs. While maintain their status with their chef coat, they can protect their pants from splash

So we rest our case. Like the traditional apron, a waist apron stands as an unsung hero in the realm of culinary attire, seamlessly marrying practicality with style. Whether worn by chefs, servers, or bartenders, this quintessential garment not only safeguards uniforms from the inevitable challenges of a dynamic kitchen but also adds to a more uniform team look . 
 
Bergen Linen is your one-stop shop for your restaurant or venue’s linens including: tablecloths, napkins, party accents, aprons, bar mops, restaurant uniforms and more. Running a businessman means tending to a lot of details. That’s why it is important to choose a vendor that works for you. Our goal is to answer your questions, showcase helpful products and provide reliable service.
Interested in a waist apron or other linen services? Shop our products today.
 
 

Fall Party Ideas: Planning for the Perfect Event

Looking for some great fall party ideas? The fall is a perfect time to throw a themed party. You can even throw an outdoor event with the proper backup plan.

Whether you are a professional event planner or a party planner by nature, let’s start planning. Aside from Halloween costume parties, there are plenty of other opportunities for a friendly gathering. The autumn season sets the perfect backdrop for a dinner party (or a larger event) so let’s get planning. With its crisp air and vibrant foliage, you’ll most likely want to have some outdoor element; this may even be a fall-kissed centerpiece.

As the leaves change, so does the atmosphere, inviting us to embrace the warmth and coziness that autumn brings. Let’s explore a variety of fall party ideas that capture the essence of the season and transform your gatherings into unforgettable celebrations.

Favorite Fall Party Themes

Before anything, you may want to choose your theme. This will decide if your fall party is a day or night event. Is it family-friendly or adults only. Once the themes and guest lists have been decided, it’s time to start planning party food ideas, party games, additional activities, and everything else will follow.  Here are a few fun fall party ideas:

Rustic Elegance:

When you think of rustic elegance, you probably remember creating a Pinterest board of just that.  Rustic has been a popular party decor for some time. Consider decorations such as: wooden accents, mason jar centerpieces, scattered colorful leaves, seasonal flowers, and twinkling fairy lights. Work autumn magic through visuals, tastes and seasonal scents.

Rustic Party Menu:

  • Roasted, seasonal vegetable platter
  • Miniature savory tarts 
  • Mulled wine or apple cider station.*
  • Warm pumpkin or caramel apple crisp

*Kid friendly? Try an apple cider bar!

Harvest Moon Soiree:

Celebrate the harvest season with a night dedicated to it. Picture string lights and lanterns to create a soft, romantic glow. Of course, you’ll need harvest-themed centerpieces with pumpkins, gourds, and candles.

Harvest Moon Menu:

  • Butternut squash soup shooters
  • Herb-roasted chicken with side of pumpkin risotto.
  • Moon-shaped sugar cookies for dessert

Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice:

So some people think that pumpkin everything can be basic. If that’s what you like, lean into it and enjoy!  Sometimes, the smell of pumpkin spice isn’t just enough. You need everything pumpkin. From spice-scented candles to orange place settings, go all in! Of course, there will need to be plenty of big and mini pumpkins scattered about. And don’t forget the blankets and pillows for a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Pumpkin-kissed Menu:

  • Pumpkin spice latte (you can’t not have them!)
  • Pumpkin and sage  pasta.
  • Spiced pumpkin soup
  • Chai-spiced cupcakes for dessert

Fireside Fiesta:

What’s better than a night by the fire pit? Gather some blankets and cushions. Again, we’ll need some fair lights strung in nearby trees. Even better, make it an outdoor movie night.

Fire Pit Menu:

  •  Peanut butter and banana S’mores
  • Grilled pineapple with honey and cinnamon
  • Campfire brownie bites
  • Hot chocolate bar with fixings

Party Invitations and Decorations

Have you decided on your theme?

Start your fall party on the right note with creative invitations that mirror your theme. Look up different invitation ideas and pull separate elements together to create something new. Think rustic, warm colors, and thematic elements that hint at the upcoming party.

 When putting together your invite, be sure to check the following items:

  1. Clear Event Details:

    • Your invitation needs to clearly convey the date, time, and location.
  2. Event Theme:

    • Try to use a design and wording that aligns with the event theme. In addition, you may wish to include a dress code or how they should dress; this is especially important for outdoor gatherings.
  3. RSVP Information:

    • Include a clear and easy-to-follow RSVP. Nowadays, an email is perfect. By providing an RSVP (and deadline), this helps the host plan for the number of attendees.

Venue and Setting

Choosing the right venue is crucial for a fall party. Whether you opt for an outdoor garden adorned with fallen leaves or an intimate indoor space with a fireplace, select a setting that complements the cozy and welcoming atmosphere of fall. Arrange comfortable seating areas that encourage guests to relax and enjoy the autumn ambiance. Chilly weather? Be sure to have some cozy throws close by.

Having a backup plan for an outdoor fall event is crucial on so many levels including your stress. As you area well aware, fall weather is fairly unpredictable especially in the New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut Metro area. With sudden changes in temperature, rain, or even unexpected storms, you’ll want a backup situation to keep guests dry (and safe!). Without an alternative space at venue reserved, organizers risk disappointment for attendees. (If you are a venue manager, then you already understand how important it is to have this conversation with all clients.)

A proper plan allows for seamless adaptation, whether it involves moving the event indoors or having alternative activities ready. This foresight not only safeguards against weather-related disruptions but also demonstrates effective event management. And will relieve a lot of stress on an unexpected rainy (or dare we say, snowy) day!

Seasonal Food and Drinks

Elevate your fall party with a menu inspired by the season’s flavors. From hearty soups and roasted vegetables to pumpkin-spiced desserts, incorporate autumnal ingredients into your culinary offerings. Complement the feast with signature fall cocktails or mocktails that add a touch of warmth and festivity to the gathering.

Depending on your chosen date and time, you’ll have to cater your menu to make sure your guests are fed some delicious food. If there are children, be sure to have some kid-friendly options. Let’s quickly talk desserts -apple cider donuts, pie with caramel sauce, and more.

Entertainment and Activities

Keep the energy high with engaging entertainment and activities suitable for all ages. Plan traditional fall games like apple bobbing or a pumpkin carving station. Whether you opt for live music or curate a playlist that captures the essence of fall, ensure that your chosen entertainment aligns with the cozy and joyful vibe of the season.

Keep kids busy (and some adults) with activities such as apple picking, corn hole, corn mazes, and other seasonal fun.

Dress Code

Encourage guests to embrace the fall theme by suggesting appropriate attire. From cozy sweaters and scarves to earthy tones that mirror the changing leaves, a themed dress code adds an extra layer of fun and unity to your fall gathering. Of course, the dress code is typically dictated by the date, time, and event space. Be sure to include the suggested attire (bullet points) in the invitation. Never leave a guest wondering what to wear. It saves people from feeling uncomfortable at your event.

Music and Playlist

Set the mood with a curated playlist that complements the fall ambiance. Consider acoustic tunes, folk music, or even a mix of classic and contemporary hits that resonate with the season.

Live music or a DJ can elevate the atmosphere, ensuring your guests stay entertained throughout the celebration. Be sure to check with your venue space on what is allowed and what equipment will be neeed.

Favors and Keepsakes

Send your guests home with tokens of appreciation that reflect the fall theme. From small jars of homemade preserves to personalized fall-scented candles, thoughtful favors add a touch of warmth to the party experience. And everyone loves a gift!

Photography and Memories

Nowadays, every party seems to have some sort of photo booth because they are fun! Plus, they allow partygoers to have something to take home with them – a tangible memory! . Encourage guests to capture candid moments by providing a backdrop and fun props. 

Final Details – Party Linens

As a trusted linen provider, we couldn’t end this guide without mentioning party linen rentals.

Many venues offer white, black, and ivory table linen rentals. For larger events, they may offer additional options such as: overlays, runners, napkins, chair covers, and sashes. Even so, they still may not have what you are looking for. 

That’s where a linen rental service is helpful. While we provide linens for restaurants and other establishments, we do offer event linen rentals to individuals as well. We encourage you to request a quote today.

Autumn palette – what colors say ‘fall’ to you?

  • gold
  • brown
  • forest green
  • burnt orange
  • maroon
  • purple

Of course, you do not have to be limited by these choices. It’s your event. However when considering colors, it is important to consider your event space (or overall backdrop), centerpieces, and other elements.

Fall Party Planning

When it comes to party planning, it’s always best to start sooner than later. Of course, things happen and you can be left throwing an event together.
 
Adequate event prep allows for careful consideration of all detail. It also opens up the opportunity to reserve a special space you have your eye on. Additionally, you have to take into consideration if vendors are available for your upcoming party. Extra time provides ample time to address potential challenges (e.g. fall weather) and make necessary adjustments.
 
Whether big or small, celebrate in style with expertly care party linen rentals colors that compliment your special event. We hope you enjoyed all our fall party ideas and can’t wait to help with your vision.

 

How to Plan a Corporate Event

Discover all the expert corporate event planning tips on how to plan a corporate event so you can stop stressing – and not miss a detail.

As your dedicated partner in crafting flawless corporate events, Bergen Linen understands how one of these gatherings can serve as a powerful platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and brand promotion. They are also a perfect way to ring in a holiday or other special occasion! 

Impeccable table settings and decor play a pivotal role in defining a polished experience. This guide is designed with you in mind. Allow us to equip you with the essential insights and tips needed to plan and execute your corporate event. 

Types of Corporate Events

Before any planning starts, there are two defining factors you must need to know: 1) the type of event (event objective) and 2) the budget. 

When it comes to a business, there are plenty of reasons to gather so let’s take a look at some of these types:

  1. Conferences: Business conferences are large-scale events that bring industry professionals together; the main goal can intended for networking, education or collaboration. Often, these events feature keynote speakers, workshops, and panel discussions. Attendees look forward to learning and sharing industry insights with one another.
  2. Seminars and Workshops: For a more intimate gathering, a company may host a seminar or workshop. They are designed for in-depth training, skill development, and ongoing training. These types of events provide an excellent platform for professionals to enhance their expertise in specific areas and are often led by subject matter experts.
  3. Product and Service Launches: If a company is launching a new product or service, a launch event can be a real game changer. At this event, products and/or services are showcased to an audience (and hopefully, press!) with the intention in generating buzz and excitement. Attendees may include target market, press, potential investors, etc.
  4. Annual General Meetings (AGMs): A more formal gathering (and sometimes less fun) is an AGM. Here, a company communicates financial results, strategic plans, and corporate governance matters to shareholders. These events are the perfect place to provide transparency and forecasting with company stakeholders.
  5. Employee Appreciation Events: Employee appreciation events are probably the most fun parties a company can host. Think awards ceremonies, team-building outings, milestone celebrations, and holiday parties! It’s the perfect way to recognize and celebrate the hard work and dedication of employees. Besides being a bit more laidback and fun, they also promote a positive work culture and boost morale.
  6. Networking Mixers: A networking mixer can be part of a larger event such as a conference. Or it can be a smaller standalone event. Attendees can connect, exchange ideas, and explore potential partnerships. 
People gathering for an event with appetizers neatly laid out on a long table with a white linen cloth.

How to Plan a Corporate Event and Make It a Memorable Experience

Now that you have the type of event defined and some type of realistic budget, it’s time to start planning! And whether you are a corporate event planner or appointed to the event planning team, there is still the question of, “Where to start?”.

 From selecting the right linens to coordinating seamless setups, we are here to support your vision and ensure that your guests are met with an environment that speaks volumes about your commitment to excellence. First things first, you wanted to know where to start. Well, it all starts with a helpful checklist (or two).

Pre Corporate Event Planning Checklist

And the countdown to your corporate event has begun. By working your way down our pre-event checklist, you can be assured that nothing is left to chance. From defining your objectives and budget to finalizing logistics, these check points will help you stay organized and prepared every step of the way.

This is a good time to share with you the ugly truth. As with any large gathering, things may not go as planned. Even with every detail in place, weather or supply chain issues may cause a hiccup. Therefore, you should go into event planning ready to bend or pivot as needed. But for now, let’s think positive. A slight wrinkle isn’t going to throw off your gathering – and you’ll probably be the only one that knows things went a little off plan.

  • Event type
    • Decide on type (see above)? Formal, casual, seasonal, etc.
  • Budget
    • How much will be needed for vendors and how much can you do with volunteers
  • Date and time
    • Breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner
  • Guest list
    • Create list of your target audience and how to manage RSVPs
    • Once RSVPs are confirmed, you will need to work on seating arrangement
  • Corporate Event Venue
    • Choose after a guest list has been determined
  • Event theme and branding
    • Define theme and branding elements to include
  • Event itinerary
    • Event schedule that includes set-up, teardown, any special speakers or other entertainment
  • Permits and licensing
    • If you are new to event designing, be sure to have all the necessary permits and licenses that may be needed OR ask your venue for help with these items
  • Vendor research and selection
    • Linen rentals: tablecloths, napkins, runners, overlays, and chair covers
    • Audio-visual equipment: check if additional equipment is needed; this may include technology and wi-fi connection
    • Signage: design and order signage for proper (and professional) branding
    • Name tags and badges: use RSVP list to prepare name tags in advance
    • Promotional items: promo giveaways, printed programs, brochures, and other items should be designed and ordered way in advance
    • Photographer and/or videographer: we can’t stress this enough – hire a professional
    • Parking and transportation: some events may require parking or transportation arrangements
  • Registration desk
    • Prepare to have an area for a registration desk that includes materials and staff
  • First aid kit/emergency services
    • Depending on the type of event, you may wish to consider having some first aid and/or someone on-hand for any emergencies that my occur 

Corporate Event Planning Setup Checklist

As part of the event planning process, this list will vary and be dependent on the size and type of event. More formal or larger events will end up having a much more detailed breakdown. For now, we’ll provide a few examples for each one to help with your planning process – and maybe give you some ideas. 

  • Decorations
    • Floral arrangements and centerpieces
    • Party linen rentals including chair covers, tablecloths, and napkins
    • Branded signage
  • Furniture
    • Lounge area – sofa, table, and lounge chair rentals
    • Conference – long tables and chairs
    • All day training session – attendee tables, buffet stations
  • Stage and podium
    • Stage, podium and microphone set-up that will go hand-in-hand with your audio-visual set-up
  • Step-and-repeat
    • Perfect for product and service launches 
  • Audio-visual check
    • Important for any type of event for seamless entertainment or speakers
  • Food and beverage
    • Buffet stations, staff for sit-down dinners, bartenders, and actual catering

On-Site Corporate Event Planning

You’re almost there! Using the “Event Setup Checklist” above, you can easily break down what teams are needed. Who should be doing what allows you to delegate so you’re not responsible for EVERYTHING. By selecting professional vendors and amazing volunteers, your event will be in the best hands possible. Make sure they have access to you so things can continue to progress as needed.

  • Event staff
    • Define roles and responsibilities from staff to volunteers
  • Emergency plan
    • Devise an emergency plan and communication chain
  • Speaker, entertainer, and presenter schedule
    • Assign a team member to ensure everyone is prepared and on-schedule
  • Registration desk
    • Create a space for check-ins and inquiries
  • Feedback
    • Provide a way for attendees to share feedback 

Post Corporate Event Planning Responsibilities

You did it! You’ve hosted a successful event. Sure, there may have been a few stressful moments but it was well worth it. And everyone had a great time. Even though your event has concluded, the work is not quite over. Let’s properly wrap up with these essential tasks. Gathering feedback, reconciling the budget, and saying ‘thank you’ for all those helped along the way should be the main post party planning. 

  • Thank you notes
    • Send thank you notes or emails to all attendees and sponsors
  • Budget reconciliation
    • Collect and review all receipts and invoices
  • Follow-up
    • Read through collected feedback and speak with attendees
    • Follow through with any post-event actions 

Choosing the Color Scheme for Your Corporate Event

 Determining the right colors for a corporate event can be a huge decision. From the marketing material to the decorations, your chosen colors are going to significantly impact your whole event.

When deciding, consider choosing a color(s) that will reflect the nature and event’s objective. Formal business conferences or an AGM will typically incorporate a more classic, sophisticated palette such as navy, charcoal gray or black; these colors effortlessly convey professionalism and trustworthiness. Holiday party? Then, let’s be a little festive. Gold, silver, red, royal blue, and green are great options!

If possible, you can try to align your party palette with your brand colors. However, this may not always be possible or necessary. However, be sure to use your logo to help brand your event; this reinforces brand recognition. We also suggest taking a look at your venue’s existing color scheme, lighting, and time of event. By considering these factors, you’ll be sure to choose the right palette that will resonate with your audience and make for the perfect experience. And fortunately, Bergen Linen offer a wide selection of linen rentals.  There’s a shade or 3 perfect for your next corporate event.

Choosing the Right Vendor

If your new to party planning or working in a different event space, choosing the right vendors can initially feel quite overwhelming. It’s stressful for the right reasons. Choosing the right vendor is a critical decision that will impact your event’s success.

It all starts with research and this can include word-of-mouth referrals. Gather information from your trusted colleagues, online reviews, testimonials, etc. Be sure to select vendors that seem to have a reputation, track record, and experience with the type of event you’ll be hosting. Vendors with a proven history and are familiar with a corporate event’s unique demands will help you along the planning stages.

Review their portfolios. Ask questions. Take note on how responsive and attentive they are. As the event gets closer, you’ll be happy you chose a vendor that acts fast and makes your corporate event a priority. Whether meeting in-person or having a virtual consultation, get a feeling of how you will work together. Are they listening to your needs? Do they seem to understand your unique needs? And if you are confused on any item, are they able to clearly explain in a way that you can make an informed decision?

Ideally, proposals should be detailed. They will outline their services, pricing, and any potential additional fees. While contracts can be text heavy, it is important to read them thoroughly. By reviewing, you will have a clear understanding of their contractual terms such as the cancellation policies, liability coverage, and other important information.

Select vendors that you confidently feel with align their services with your corporate event.

Let’s Start Planning

Hopefully, these corporate event planning tips have made you feel empowered and less stressed. Planning a corporate event demand a meticulous attention to detail.

As a linen provider, we are fortunate enough to work with individuals, event designers, country club F&B directors, and restaurant managers designing special events. We provide a small part of all the elements of a corporate event. However, it is all those elements that come together to make a party a success. So we take this responsibility very seriously. That’s why you will only receive guest-ready table linens, which are sure to impress. We hope we have answered your question on how to plan a corporate event so you can begin planning confidently.

How to Fold a Napkin With Silverware

Learning how to fold a napkin with silverware quick and easy will save your team time. While there’s an art of napkin folding, you fortunately only need a little time and a few items.

At the heart of exceptional hospitality lies the attention to detail and this includes your finely folded cloth napkins. Silverware neatly enveloped in a linen napkin not only enhances the aesthetics of your dining establishment, but it also reflects your team’s dedication to providing the best experience possible. In addition, they make setting a dinner table faster. (Plus, you can stack napkin rolls to take up less space front-of-house.)

Let’s dive in so you can start dressing up those dinner parties! Whether you choose classic white ore color napkins, a napkin fold is an elegant touch for a formal table setting.

What You’ll Need

First, set up a space to work on your napkin folds. Many restaurants and country clubs choose to take care of items like this prior to opening. Therefore, an empty table can make the perfect workspace.

You’ll then need your quality linen napkins and silverware. And then a few team members who are ready to start folding.

How to Fold a Napkin with Silverware 

Classic Fold

Here are step-by-step instructions for a classic fold that will hold your silverware:

  1. Lay your linen napkin flat on a clean surface.
  2. Create a triangle by folding your napkin in half diagonally.
  3. With the longest side of the triangle closes to you, place your polished silverware close to that inner-edge.
  4. Fold either side of the triangle so that your silverware is covered.
  5. At this point, your napkin will look like an open envelope. Starting at the longer edge closest to you, roll your napkin towards the smallest edge (the ‘envelope flap’). And you’re set!

Wasn’t that easy? If you prefer your silverware to stick out a bit, then please take a look at another folding technique below.

Silverware Pouch

  1. On a clean surface, start with a flat napkin.
  2. Fold your napkin in half towards you; this way the ‘open’ portion is facing you.
  3. Now, fold again so it’s in quarters.
  4. Shift your napkin on the flat surface so the open corner is facing away from you (and to the left).
  5. Take the top layer of the napkin (still in quarters) and fold in half diagonally.
  6. Turn your napkin over; the open corner should now be on the right.
  7. Take the right corner side and fold it back about 1/3 of the way. Press it down.
  8. Take the left corner side and fold it back about 1/3 of the way as well. Press it down.
  9. You’re almost done! Flip your folded napkin over. Straighten out any ‘off’ edges. Then, tuck your silverware in. 

While this technique is a little more complicated, it’s the kind of task that becomes much easier (and faster) with repetition.

Additional Tips for a Perfect Napkin Roll

If you are looking for quality looking silverware rolls, then take a look at these few extra tips.

  • High-quality, clean, and freshly pressed fabric napkins. Whether you are caring for your napkins or trusting a linen rental company, it’s important to start with good product. Once unfolded, all those imperfections will be exposed. So make sure your napkins are guest-ready prior to any folding.
  • Clean and polished silverware. Pro Tip – Before tucking your silverware into your napkin, give it a quick rub with an extra, spare napkin. When ordering your linen rentals, you’ll most likely have a few extra. These extras are perfect for a task like this.
  • Consistent folds. By taking a few minutes to train staff, you’ll be able to show the end result you are looking for. Uniformity will create a much better presentation. 
  • Add  a little music. If you are preparing for a large event or evening rush, there may be a large amount of napkin folding needed. While not difficult, it is repetitions. So have a little fun. Put on some good music and let your team make the most out of this responsibility. If possible, there should be some level of Quality Assurance.

Add a Special Touch

Your guests expect and deserve all the little details. And while a clean fresh napkin is an obvious, let’s take a step further. Although folding a napkin can take a little time, you will save time in the end. Plus, your tables will always be uniform and ready to impress.

If you are interested in clean, quality linen rentals, please request a quote today.

Spotlight on the Bib Apron

Bib aprons! This month’s product spotlight. When you think of an apron, there are many images that come to mind.  This even applies to the more specific ‘restaurant apron’.

Without going into the history of this simple garment, the use has pretty much always been the same. Aprons are used to protect the clothing underneath. And in the food and beverage industry, this is a necessity!

As a business owner or team member, you understand the importance of keeping a tidy appearance for guests.  When working with food, this can be a little tricky; hence, you have the almighty apron!

THE BIB APRON

 They provide the most coverage as they often fall to the knees or below.

Typically, there is a square neckline with adjustable neck straps.  A tie waist provides a secure fit.

For example, bib aprons are commonly found on:

  • wait staff
  • line cooks
  • dish room staff

Therefore, these aprons are typically made of polyester or a cotton blend. (Waterproof or water-resistant materials are better suited for dish room staff to provide protection against splashes, etc.)

A Unified Team

What is the perfect apron for your establishment?

Is it an apron with pockets? An adjustable butcher apron? From bistro aprons to waist aprons, there is an apron for your team (and any body type).

First and foremost, choose from a variety apron styles that are available in quality fabrics. If you do not want stains to be so visible, you may opt for a black bib apron. (However, it is important to keep in mind that a black bib apron may show fading over time.)

Bib aprons provide a protective layer, shielding the employees’ clothing from spills, splatters, and stains. While commonplace in a busy kitchen environment, you can keep your team looking as clean as possible. This helps maintain a professional appearance but also prolongs the lifespan of the staff’s uniforms; therefore, you can be reducing replacement costs.

Do you currently provide clothing protection or are interested in learning about the different types of aprons Bergen Linen offers?  A team member would be happy to walk you through your options.  For some businesses, you may require one type. Other clients prefer to have a few different types to suit the various departments. We also offer chefwear and other uniform rentals.  Call (800) 789-8115 or email info@bergenlinen.com today. And ask about your bib apron options today.