5 Quick and Dirty Tips for Corporate Event Planners

The life of an event planner that coordinates corporate events is a busy one. The stress level can go down as the entertainment value for the attendees goes up, with only a few insider tips.

1. Pick something high on entertainment

Fancy cocktail receptions and brunches are fun, but to really hook your attendees, create a program a lot of entertainment content. It can be good to kick things off with a motivational speaker or pep talk from the company leadership, but follow up on that energy with fun and games to drive the point home.

2. Go local

Glamorous options in other towns or states were the way to attract attention for many years. However, in this money-conscious era it is important to utilize the gems in the local area, rather than waste time and money looking elsewhere. It is easier to do a site visit, convenient for attendees to get to, and it supports the local economy.

3. Be original

Whether the corporate events are to show appreciation to certain clients, or to support team building for staff, it is important to be original with the event in order to generate interest, attendance, and leave a lasting impression. Consider things like laser tag or bumper cars, with or without family invited.

4. Use the Internet

The Internet offers so many easy and inexpensive ways to promote events these days, beyond just a website for event information and registration. Invite local bloggers to write on the event, design social media sites to build awareness and relay important information, and always build key words and hashtags into content to improve SEO.

5. “All-inclusive” is your friend

One of the best pieces of advice that any planner can take when organizing corporate events is to find a venue that provides “all-inclusive” options. It is hard enough keeping up with registrations, name tags, and event marketing. Simplify the process by finding a place with experience handling the food and beverage service and meeting setup/breakdown.

If you would like to learn more about corporate events in the Austin, Texas, area, visit Austin's Park n' Pizza Experience.

5 Great Ideas for Military Family Fun on a Budget

If you are looking for military family fun options that won't break the bank, then don't look too far from home for solutions. By cutting down on travel expenses, more money can be spent on the entertainment and more time spent on each other.

1. Join a community play

A great way to enjoy time together as a family is to join a community play. Remember that acting isn't the only way to serve. Often help is needed to make costumes, build the sets, and to provide backup singing and music. It is also a great way to get involved in the community and make new friends.

2. Amusement park fun

Nothing says a great day out and military family fun like a day at an amusement park. Find a local one, so extra money isn't spent on fuel and hotels. With rides, like bumper cars, laser tag, mini golf, and roller coasters, there is something for everyone in the family, old or young.

3. Family baseball game

A family baseball game is a great way to get out and get physical. If there aren't quite enough members, have the kids invite friends, or hold a tournament between several families. The event can be held in a backyard or at a local park.

4. Pick nick Olympics

Pack some sandwiches, cold drinks, and snacks in a cooler and head to a local park or nature preserve for a day of military family fun. Croquet, badminton, Frisbee, horse shoes, bean bag toss, glow in the dark bottle bowling, and obstacle races are just a few of the many game options. Make teams or play as individuals. Fun prizes can be toys or privileges, like “no trash duty for a week.”

5. Night out at the arcades

Arcade games are fun enough to bring out the kid in anyone. Cheer each other on and enjoy competing for the most arcade prizes. To add an extra bonus, meals are often included in the price of admission, making it even more fun and money wise.

If you would like to learn more about military family fun in Austin, visit Austin's Park n' Pizza Experience.

The Parents' Guide for Stress-Free Amusement Park Outings

Amusement park outings include fun activities like outdoor rides, pizza buffets, and arcade games. With so many entertaining options for the whole family, it makes going out fun and stress-free. Especially with school holidays right around the corner, it is important to have a handful of options to keep kids active while spending quality family time together outside of the home. Going to an arcade park is one sure-bet way to solve the problem of restlessness and boredom. However, it is good to know how to plan for it.

The first step to a stress-free day is knowing that you won't have to spend your time running from location to location, in order to keep the children entertained. Amusement park outings have everything the family could need, in one spot. With outdoor rides and attractions like laser tag, bumper cars, climbing walls, and batting cages, it is possible to keep everyone engaged all day, without having to become a family taxi service. That means that even mom and dad have time to enjoy themselves.

The other factor that leads to stress-free amusement park outings is the reasonable cost for the multitude of high-quality entertainment options, such as outdoor rides, games, and attractions. Most things at an amusement park are included in the entrance fee. Since the family will want to spend a good part of the day playing and not wasting time traveling to restaurants, look for a property that has a substantial and quality buffet. If food and drinks are a la carte, the bill can add up quickly. If the price includes the freedom for junior to refill his drink as many times as he likes, or grab an extra slice of pizza because he has worked up an appetite, then you get the most bang for their buck. Plus, there are often specials that help reduce the cost. Group discounts, attending on certain days or hours, or looking for coupons can often help reduce the already reasonable entertainment prices.

If you would like to learn more about outdoor rides in Austin, Texas, click here.

The Groovy Mom's Guide to Family Fun That Doesn't Break the Bank

Family fun doesn't have to be expensive. Many options are free, or cost very little. With busy work and school schedules, it can be easy to fall into a rut and simply stay home to spend time in front of the television. However, it is important to find fun and interesting things to do as a family. Play time together is precious, because kids grow so quickly. Many moments can become teaching opportunities. Plus, spending time together allows a family to share stories and maintain strong relationships.

The great outdoors is a wonderful place for the groovy Mom to search for kid-friendly activities. Look for area parks and reserves. Take a hike together, go on a pick nick, or bring a ball and throw or kick it to each other. A nature scavenger hunt is also a great family fun idea. Kids can learn about the flora and fauna while running and playing. Outdoor games can also be a blast. Mini golf is always a crowd pleaser, and kids will never turn down an opportunity to ride go karts. While some cost is involved, it is typically minimal, compared to the time the activity lasts.

If the weather is poor, the family fun can be taken inside. A library is a great place to go. Kids can research their favorite authors and read about far away cultures. An arcade or laser tag park are also great options. Kids still get the same physical activity and fun level, but don't have to be in poor weather. Typically, prizes are offered at arcades, so kids go home happy with their loot.

Of course, a pizza party is also a family fun option. Parents that share meals with their kids have plenty of time to interact and exchange stories and make memories. Finding a place with a pizza buffet is best, so even picky eaters can find something they like. Plus, kids will appreciate something cool that they like to do.

If you would like to learn more about family fun in the Austin area, visit Austin's Park n Pizza Experience.

5 Facts About Batting Cage Safety

Going to the batting cages can be a lot of fun for kids and adults alike. It's a great way to build experience with hitting, as well as share stories and make memories. However, it is always important to know the rules and exercise caution. Both the bat and the ball can do serious damage. With a few smart steps, everyone can enjoy some time hitting imaginary home runs with no unwanted incidents.

1. Helmets protect

Safety helmets, and any other protective gear provided, should be worn at all times in and around the batting cages. The gear is there to protect sensitive body parts, in case a wild ball or bat gets lose. Just like a life jacket, it is precautionary gear that hopefully won't be needed, but can make a big difference in injury level if it is.

2. Swinging bats can become weapons

Especially for little ones, it can be tempting to mindlessly, or purposefully swing the bat around when not in the cage. Batting cages are constructed for a reason...to catch objects if they fly astray. No such protection is available while waiting in line. Unless batting in the cage, bats should be kept in their holders, or held at the side.

3. Horseplay can hurt

Batting is a lot of fun. It's a great way to play. However, unnecessary horseplay around the cages is a recipe for injury. Too many things can go wrong if a person is unaware of their surroundings and accidentally looses control or gets in the way.

4. Young children need supervision

While young children can often benefit from batting instruction, they should always be supervised when in batting cages and should never operate any equipment without an adult. For some, practice with a whiffle ball is a better choice.

5. Cages are for one at a time

Only one hitter should be in the cage at any time. The risk of injury is too high if more than that go in at the same time. The only exception is young children that need help. Even then, care should be exercised when using batting cages. By following a few simple rules, everyone can have a great time.

If you would like to learn more about batting cages in the Austin area, click here.

Arcade Games, Rides and More Great Ideas for Dads' Weekends

Sometimes, coming up with new and entertaining things to do on the weekend with the kids can be difficult. Things like arcade games or places with rides can help make great memories during the precious time with them. The goal is to find interesting options that facilitate family time. With so many activities and responsibilities in modern life, it can be easy to fall in a rut and not make much of an effort to plan. However, it is important to make time for quality moments, and planning for them can actually be enjoyable.

Watching movies at the house is an old standby, but it doesn't allow for much interaction or sharing. With limited time together, it is important to make the activities count. Finding options outside of the house for pure entertainment, like rides and arcade games, is always a hit. Kids love them, plus they spend their time interacting in a positive way with their family. Take turns watching each other play and cheering for the player, or play against each other for an all-night tournament (although it is a good idea to not get too competitive and hurt feelings).

Physical activities, such as going to the batting cages, mini golf, or laser tag, can be a lot of fun for kids of all ages. Likely, it has been a while since they have been, if ever. Plus, those situations can become great teaching moments for dads to pass along their pearls of wisdom about stance, strategy, and sportsmanship. Like when playing arcade games together, it also creates a perfect opportunity to share memories from the past, about Dad's childhood and those from when the kids were younger.

Of course, the perfect accompaniment for a night of arcade games is a pizza party. Sharing time over food is one of the quintessential human activities. With a pizza buffet, even picky eaters can find something they like. While eating, Dad can ask questions about the kids' school, hobbies, dreams, and life in general. Kids can relax and have fun telling Dad all of the stories they want to share.

If you would like to learn more about arcade games in the Austin area, visit Austins's Park n Pizza Experience.

5 Things to do in Austin With Your Kids

If you find yourself in Texas' state capital with your children and can't think of things to do in Austin, fear no more. There are a number of wonderful options for all ages in your family, including the adults.

1. See the bats

It might be a law that no one can leave Austin, Texas, without first seeing the bats. They are in residence under the Congress Avenue Bridge from March until November. Every night around dusk, the population of about 1.5 million emerge for their night time feeding flight. There are a number of viewing areas, and no charge for watching. Remember, though, that bats are wild animals and not to be handled.

2. Play at Zilker Park

For those that don't know, Zilker Park is a huge area of acreage right in the middle of town and should be on everyone's list of things to do in Austin. It includes a natural spring pool, playgrounds, train, picnic areas, canoe rentals, hiking and biking trails, and open fields for sports. A family can spend a whole day there and not get to everything.

3. Attend a few museums

Austin has a number of excellent museums. Some are specifically geared towards children. The others will have good programs aimed at helping kids relate to the collections and have fun learning about the art, history, or science. Many of them have special activities available, so check the schedule for options.

4. Go to an entertainment park

Of all the things to do in Austin, going to an entertainment park, such as Austin's Park n' Pizza Experience can be the biggest bang for your buck, and the biggest hit with your children. With a number of entertainment options (batting cages, arcade games, rides, laser tag, and climbing walls) and a full buffet that includes drink refills, the only thing you'll have to worry about is how to spend your winning points.

5. Visit a farmer's market or farm

In the true spirit of Austin, an excellent option is to spend time with your family at a farmer's market or pick-your-own farm. There are a number of options around town, so do a little research for what is closest to you. Your children can learn about food and how it is grown, while picking their own tasty treats.

If you are looking for things to do in Austin, Texas, visit Austin's Park n' Pizza Experience!

5 Planning Tips for Amazing Corporate Events

Whether your are planning corporate events for team building or client appreciation, there are a number of not-so-common ideas for amazing results.

1. Lakeside party

Lakeside, or seaside, corporate events are always a hit. You can dress them up for a formal evening, with garden lights strung between trees or poles, tents, and candles. They are also work well with a casual atmosphere, with games and activities for the staff and their families. Everyone will have a good time. No matter what the occasion, offer a surf and turf buffet to round out the theme with the scenic surroundings.

2. Entertainment park

Sometimes it can be difficult to get creative with so many things that have already been done. Try holding your corporate events at an entertainment park. With all inclusive deals and sections that can be rented for large groups, it makes for a stress free and financially easy option. For clients, flatter them by inviting their whole family. For internal team-building, create competitions and games to encourage groups to work together and have fun.

3. Museum fête

A museum can be a lot of fun and give your attendees that wow factor that make events so effective. Whether you choose a history, art, or science option for your corporate events, museums are typically able to accommodate a variety of group sizes. Themes and decor can be fun to create for a museum party, designed around a famous artist, time period, or special installation.

4. Paddle wheel boat

Renting a paddle wheel boat for the day or evening is a good idea for corporate events. Not only is it something different to do, but your guests are all concentrated in one area, which creates the perfect atmosphere for interaction. There is no risk of other groups interfering with your activities. Boats can float down the river, or remain stationary for a planned firework display, sunset watch, or simply to enjoy a particular view.

5. Sports venue

Sports venues are popular with many of your staff. Hold the gathering during a game in a suite or special event room, or when you have the place to yourself out on the field. There is always a sport in season. Sometimes, holding the event at a place where your staff can partake in the sports is even better. Batting cages, laser tag, or go carts can all be great options for staff to let lose and work on team building.

If you are interested in corporate events in the Austin, TX, area, click here!

5 Stress-Free Kids Birthday Party Ideas

Planning your child's birthday party can be stressful. With so much pressure to have the house clean, make sure you have enough chairs for everyone, and deciding the theme, things can get overwhelming quickly. By finding an outside venue to hold your event, you eliminate many of the stressful aspects and can spend your time on the fun parts of party planning.

1. Pizza Party

The list of things that kids love more than a pizza party is not very long. A crowd pleasing activity for all ages, offering a selection of pizzas at a party is a sure hit. But, arrange your party around a pizza buffet, and you've outdone yourself as far as the kids are concerned.

2. Go-Kart

For the racing enthusiast in your family, a go-kart birthday party is perfect. Make the whole day a Grand Prix theme, with checkered invitations, a toy car cake, and prizes for the fastest, the slowest, the least mistakes, and the most mistakes.

3. Rockwall Climbing

If you want to think outside the party box, a rockwall climbing party theme could be a good idea. All children love climbing, and all parents love the safety guidelines and harnesses. The activity keeps kids strategically thinking about the next move and playing all at once.

4. Arcade Games

A classic birthday party is one at the arcade. With a hand full of tokens and a room full of game options, there will be something for everyone. Be sure to purchase extra tokens, so everyone can play until their hearts are content.

5. Laser Tag

Sometimes planning a party for an older child is a challenge. Laser tag often rises to that challenge and keeps kids wanting more. The kids will love the fast-moving, loud, and exciting game. They can work together and playfully against each other to win.

If you are in the Austin, Texas area and are interested in a party place for your child, click here!

3 Corporate Event Ideas to Impress Your Boss

Planning corporate events doesn't have to include the usual suspects of board rooms and pastry trays. There can be an element of fun to your work-place gatherings. To bring out the sporting and competitive side of your staff, try holding your event around an activity. Getting staff to compete on enjoyable tasks, or to work together as a team are good ways to build rapport in the office.

1. Tag, You're It

If your team is high-energy, laser tag can be a great option. Not only does it use a lot of physical fun, but it also gets team members to develop strategies and work together in a positive way to help their team win.

2. Mini Golf

Another not so typical option for corporate events is a trip to the putt-putt course. Staff can have a blast trying to get the lowest score in a silly setting that takes the edge off of office protocol. Mix things up with pairs, blindfolds, or other competitions. Playing putt-putt is more than just fun and games. It can teach team members how to manage challenges and change.

3. Go Krazy

Go-kart racing is a great way to let off some office steam. If you have only a few staff, then everyone will get a chance to drive. The arcade will keep track of scores and you can have an award ceremony after the event. If you have a lot of staff, put them into groups, with each electing a driver. The rest can come up with a team name and cheer on the driver with creative chants and signs.

Facilities that offer these type of activities typically also have food and beverage options. Many have all-inclusive tickets for the day, or allow you to rent out certain sections for your corporate events. 

If you are interested in an entertainment park experience in the Austin, Texas, area, click here!