The hallmarks of a great Thanksgiving party are family fun, delicious food, and afternoon naps. However, the success of the entire day depends on the meal. You can help ensure that you host a great holiday dinner by handling logistics, such as dishware rental and menu planning, well in advance. Use this Thanksgiving menu guide to plan a meal that every guest will love.

Remember Allergies: An inclusive Thanksgiving menu always require a bit of research. First, determine if any of your guests have allergies or food restrictions. You should be especially conscious of guests with gluten allergies or nut allergies. You can help prevent allergic reactions and ensure that no guest goes hungry by including several allergy-friendly alternatives in your Thanksgiving spread.

Think Green: One of the easiest ways to create an accessible Thanksgiving menu is to focus on the vegetables. There are many ways to make a meat-free dish that is palatable for every set of taste buds. Mashed potatoes, for example, are a Thanksgiving favorite that any guest can enjoy—remember to provide a meatless gravy option, too. You could even prepare a tofu turkey if your guest list includes several vegetarians. However, a varied selection of tasty veggie dishes can also act as a stand-in for the traditional bird.

Recruit Help: You don’t have to tackle the Thanksgiving challenge alone. This is especially true if you are cooking a tricky dish or preparing food for a specialty diet. Simply ask a friend to offer tips or help you prepare the dish ahead of time.

You can save time and effort this Thanksgiving by renting your service materials from American Party Rental . We can provide formal dishware, table linens, and more. Call us at (512) 837-6500 if you have questions about our diverse inventory. 

Linens act as the color base for your entire wedding reception, and clashing colors can be a huge distraction for your guests. That’s why you should be careful in choosing your linens. This video shows you how to select between linen colors, shapes, and styles.

The video begins by explaining why linens in neutral colors are such a popular choice for wedding planners. Next, the hostess reviews attractive linen textures. You can learn all about tablecloth overlays and how to reduce costs by watching this clip.

You can rent wedding linens and much more from American Party Rental . Our rates and inventory can help make your wedding planning easier. We can be reached by phone at (512) 837-6500 for more information.

Parties and events are always fun, but planning them can be stressful if you don’t have access to the right rental equipment. Visit the following websites for advice and tips on planning great events in the upcoming season.

• You can find some great wedding lighting tips on this page from CelebrityBrideGuide.com.

• No Halloween party is complete without a spooky playlist. Find some great Halloween music ideas on this page from Nerdist.com.

• Plan the perfect Halloween party with advice and ideas from TLC.

• You can get everyone into the haunting mood at your Halloween party by playing a classic Halloween movie on a projection screen. This page from FearfulFilms.com has movie suggestions for partygoers of all ages.

• Add the perfect spin to your next event by renting a mirrored disco ball. Learn about the history of mirror balls in this article from GulfCoastLivingOnline.com.

Whether you are getting ready to throw a memorable Halloween party or planning your dream wedding, you can rely on American Party Rental for your party equipment needs. Check out our website or call our friendly staff at (512) 837-6500 to learn more about our party rentals options and services. 

From graduations to cocktail parties, the professionals at American Party Rental have the necessary party rental equipment to satisfy all of your needs.

• If you’re hosting a graduation party for your son or daughter, be sure to follow these comprehensive instructions.

• Weddings, graduations, and other big events can always benefit from a well-arranged buffet table .

• Take a look at this webpage for helpful party etiquette tips for both hosts and guests.

• Find out more about renting a tent for your wedding ceremony with this guide from MarthaStewartWeddings.com.

• Are you planning an outdoor wedding ? If so, take a look at this article from TheKnot.com to find tips to help you plan the event. 

 If you’re in the Austin area, give us a call at (512) 837-6500 today to find out more. Next, be sure to check out these additional event planning resources.

With Austin’s fall season comes pumpkin pies, a break from the hot weather, brightly-colored leaves, and excited preparations for the holidays, beginning with Halloween. If you love the festive spirit of Halloween and are planning on throwing a Halloween bash for your family, friends, or colleagues, consider renting audio/visual equipment and incorporating these ideas into your event to enhance the eerie atmosphere.

• Set up a Huge Screen: Do you want to show spooky images or a classic scary movie at your Halloween party? Renting a projection screen and showing a slideshow, movie, or spooky graphics is a great way to enhance your event. If you are having a family-friendly party, consider setting up a separate space for the children and projecting a kid-appropriate Halloween movie on the giant screen.

• Rent a Slide Projector or LCD Data Projector: If you decide to rent a projection screen, you will also need a slide projector or an LCD data projector. With a slide projector, you can create a fun slideshow of scary images or pictures from past Halloween parties to show your guests. With an LCD data projector, you can project movies or images from your computer onto the screen.

• Create a Spooky Playlist: Enhance the vibe of your Halloween party by renting speakers and creating a great Halloween playlist . Whether you want your guests to get out on the dance floor or want to create a spooky setting with eerie noises, speakers are a great rental choice for your Halloween party.

If you are trying to throw the best party in Austin this Halloween, rely on American Party Rental for all of your party rental needs, including different types of audio/visual equipment. Visit us online or call our helpful staff at (512) 837-6500 to learn more about our party equipment rentals. 

Halloween is one of America’s most beloved holidays, and in recent years it continues to grow in popularity. In fact, spending on Halloween costumes and party supplies rose by nine percent in 2011—a rough economic year that even saw a decline in Christmas spending. Let’s take a look at some of the history behind this holiday and today’s Halloween trends:

Ghoulish History –  This spooky holiday has long been associated with community and celebrations, but it’s gone through quite a few changes over the years. About 2,000 years ago, Halloween was celebrated by the Celts during early November, to recognize the season of death when cold winds began to kill the crops and community members were more likely to fall ill. They called this ancient festival Samhain , and it’s the holiday upon which Halloween is based. Bonfires were lit to honor the gods, and costumes were worn to hide from the wandering spirits of the dead.  In these days, the treats provided at doorsteps were for ghosts, not kids.

The Origins of Jack-o-Lanterns –  Halloween’s beloved Jack-o-lantern pumpkin derived from an old Irish tale involving Jack, a man so evil, the devil himself refused to admit him into hell. Barred from both heaven and hell, Jack was left to wander the earth at night holding a piece of coal inside of a turnip for light. He was referred to as “Jack of the lantern.” Around Halloween, families would put lights and offerings by their front doors to ward off evil spirits like Jack. Many folks tried carving their own “Jack of the lanterns.” These were originally faces carved into Irish turnips and potatoes, but the Irish began using North American-grown pumpkins when the tradition travelled with them to the United States.

Today’s Candy-Fueled Celebrations –  Traditions have changed over time, and while Halloween night is still spooky, it’s much more fun! We also eat much more candy than the spooky revelers of centuries past could ever have imagined! Americans spent more than 2 billion dollars on Halloween candy in 2011. To give you an idea of the sheer volume of Halloween candy consumed, if you laid the more than 9 billion pieces of candy corn made this year end to end, the chain would circle the moon 21 times!

Festive Costumes and Party Decor –  Today’s Halloween costumes are funny and creative, and our Halloween parties feature silly games and festive party decorations instead of somber rituals. A spooky adult Halloween party might feature a ghoulish black, white, and red vampire theme. For a more family-friendly party, hosts can offer activities like bobbing for apples and use festive, harvest-themed table decorations and party linens.

This year, impress your friends with fun facts about candy corn and jack-o-lanterns and share some great ideas for Halloween party supplies and costumes! We’ve compiled a list of tweetable tidbits to get you in the spirit for America’s most haunted holiday. Click “Tweet this” to share on twitter, or feel free to post your favorite factoids on Facebook and Google+.

1.      The most popular costumes in 2011 were inspired by The Walking Dead and Gaga. Why not try Zombie Gaga in 2012? Via @mashable #AmParty (Tweet This)

2.      Austin, TX has its fair share of ghosts. Have you been to any of its most haunted locales? http://bit.ly/lg62pn #AmParty (Tweet This)

3.      Think Halloween is just for kids? Over the last decade, more adults are finding ways to celebrate. http://cnnmon.ie/q8xuxv #AmParty (Tweet This)

4.      Bobbing for apples has been a part of Halloween since the Romans added their traditions to Celtic holidays. Via @History #AmParty (Tweet This)

5.      In Bavaria, one day of Halloween is not enough. Many Southern Germans celebrate a whole All Souls week! http://bit.ly/ps5iyj #AmParty (Tweet This)

6.      Want to participate in a freaky 5k fundraiser before heading to your party? Join the TSD Spooky Skedaddle! http://bit.ly/q5ikej #AmParty (Tweet This)

7.      Laid end to end, the pieces of candy corn made this year alone could circle the moon nearly 21 times. Via @CandyUSA #AmParty (Tweet This)

8.      Charlie Sheen was the winning costume last Halloween. Who was the most costume-worthy celebrity of 2012? Via @THR #AmParty (Tweet This)

9.      Early jack-o-lanterns were carved from turnips and potatoes. Ever tried using anything but a pumpkin? http://bit.ly/rymscw #AmParty (Tweet This)

10.  Planning a Halloween party? @BHG has some great ideas for spooky centerpieces using typewriters and candles http://bit.ly/umjtrm #AmParty (Tweet This)

11.  A Halloween party for adults needs cocktails like the Dark and Stormy Death Punch. More spooky recipes here: http://bit.ly/pbp9qu #AmParty (Tweet This)

12.  Print out some pumpkin carving patterns from @hgtv if you want to have the spookiest jack-o-lanterns around. http://bit.ly/dpyq64 #AmParty (Tweet This)

13.  If you want to liven up your Halloween party, check out the Halloween playlist from @nerdist http://bit.ly/p8rty2 #AmParty (Tweet This)

14.  Want a more alternative Halloween playlist with songs from @TheBlackKeys and Pixies? http://bit.ly/ubghgh #AmParty (Tweet This)

15.  Doomed German immigrants once tried to colonize Texas. Got the guts to hunt down their ghosts on Halloween? http://bit.ly/rs5y4i #AmParty (Tweet This)

16.  Early Halloween costumes were worn to blend in with spirits wandering about on H-ween night. Via @History #AmParty (Tweet This)

17.  Are you and your special someone looking for a cheesy couple costume this Halloween? Check out these ideas: http://bit.ly/sj27ev #AmParty (Tweet This)

18.  Looking for some creepy movies to get you in the Halloween spirit? @IMDb has a list of all the greats: http://imdb.to/pt2meq #AmParty (Tweet This)

19.  The fear of Halloween is called Samhainophobia (read: sow-in-o-phobia). Get more weird Halloween facts here: http://bit.ly/q3goim #AmParty (Tweet This)

20.  If you are looking for some fun games for a kids Halloween party, @Kaboosedotcom has what you need: http://bit.ly/1tyhsz #AmParty (Tweet This)

21.  Last year, Americans spent around $2.3 billion on Halloween candy. How much will you shell out this year? http://bit.ly/us92jk #AmParty (Tweet This)

22.  It is all in the eyes! Spooky contact lenses will make your Halloween costume the coolest at the party. http://bit.ly/rsmyyr #AmParty (Tweet This)

23.  Hey guys! Need a cool Halloween costume? @uncrate has compiled a few ideas here: http://bit.ly/vzsc4z #AmParty (Tweet This)

24.  Hosting your first grownup Halloween party? Get some tips from @TLC here: http://bit.ly/9lipt8 #AmParty (Tweet This)

25.  Did you know that the orange and black of Halloween represent the fall harvest and the darkness of death? http://n.pr/quaaxl #AmParty (Tweet This)

26.  So you have your own party on the weekend, but what to do on Halloween night? Maybe the Austin Monster Ball? http://bit.ly/unfyud #AmParty (Tweet This)

An extremely important part of planning your wedding reception is picking the entertainment for the night. The right entertainment will enhance the atmosphere of the event and add to the fun.

With the variety of different entertainment choices available, including DJs and live bands, choosing an entertainment option can be confusing. Watch this video for tips on getting the best wedding entertainment for your special day.

For all of your party supply rental needs, rely on American Party Rental in Austin. Visit us online or call our helpful staff at (512) 837-6500 to learn more about our variety of party rentals that can make your wedding reception absolutely perfect. 

There are many little details that are important to consider when planning an event in Austin, whether it is a holiday party or an upscale wedding. If you are organizing an upcoming event, consider using the following lighting options from a party rental company to enhance the appearance and atmosphere of your event.

• Chandeliers : If you are trying to find the perfect option for lighting a wedding , a gala, or any other upscale event, consider renting chandeliers. This lighting option adds a classic and refined touch to any space. There are many different types of chandeliers, so you are sure to find one that fits perfectly with your event theme.

• Mirror Balls : Put a fun spin on your event by renting a mirror ball, which is perfect for parties with dance floors or a ‘70s theme. The small mirrors on the ball will reflect light all around the dance floor, creating a fun effect. A spinning disco ball will be an automatic hit at any event and is sure to be a topic of conversation among your guests.

• String Lights : The holiday season is quickly approaching, which means that it’s time to start thinking about planning your holiday events. String lights are the perfect lighting options for your holiday event, and will definitely add to the festive atmosphere.

• Strobe Lights : If you are planning a school dance or any other type of dance party, consider renting strobe lights, which will get your guests excited to dance. Strobe lights create an instant edgy and energetic dance environment that is perfect for a variety of events.

When you are looking for the perfect lighting options for your upcoming event, contact Austin’s American Party Rental . In addition to lighting fixtures, we can provide chairs, tables, décor, and any other event rentals you may need. Check out our variety of lighting options by visiting our website, or call us at (512) 837-6500 to get more information about our party rentals. 

American Party Rental is proud to have been apart of the groundbreaking ceremony for the Metrorapid rail in Chinatown this past weekend!

In these photos you will see a full service set up of a 20′ x 30′ frame tent with sidewall, chairs, staging, and a podium with a wireless mic.

For more information about the variety of rentals available at American Party Rental , please call us at  (512) 837-6500.  

As the temperature starts to rise, you can make the most out of your event with delicious and refreshing treats. Snow cones make a Texas summer bearable and fun. Keep reading to see why this party supply is a must-have for any indoor or outdoor event this summer:

• A Cool Treat

Each lick of a deliciously chilled snow cone will make your guests feel less of the Austin heat. Congregate around the snow cone machine at your next event to enjoy a treat that instantly makes you feel cool, comfortable, and hydrated. Snow cones are one of the few treats that actually give you a reprieve from the extreme heat of a Texas summer. Bring this commercial food service to your party so that you and your guests can temporarily escape the stifling temperatures.

• Fun for Everyone

Snow cones are an ideal treat for kid’s birthdays, company parties, and even wedding receptions because they are a treat that everyone can enjoy. Your guests can choose which flavorful syrup they’d like poured over the crushed iced of their snow cone. Grab a treat from the snow cone machine and satiate your hunger and thirst with this delectable treat.

• Flavor without the Fat

Some summer snacks are dripping with calories and fat. In contrast, snow cones are made mostly from ice. Add a touch of blue bubblegum, cherry, coconut, grape, pineapple, lemon-lime, orange, red raspberry, or strawberry to your treat with flavored syrup. With a snow cone, you can have a refreshingly delicious snack without putting a dent in your diet plans.

Rent a snow cone machine from American Party Rental to give your next event a cooler edge. With our snow cone machine, table, chair, and linen rentals, you can set up a truly memorable event. For more information, please visit us online or call (512) 837-6500 .