• An Elegant Way to Fold Cloth Napkins

    Table linens and cloth napkins make any event more elegant. To wow your guests, try doing the rose fold with the napkins. Watch this video to see a step-by-step demonstration of the rose fold. This etiquette expert recommends using a solid-colored napkin.

    Observe carefully as she demonstrates how to fold in all four corners twice, then flips the napkin over and repeats the process once on the other side. She uses a goblet to weigh the center of the napkin down, and then strategically pulls out some of the folds to create a rose petal look.

    You can rent all the table linens you need in Austin, TX from American Party Rental, which also offers party equipment for weddings and company parties. Call us at (512) 837-6500 or check out our inventory in our online catalog.

  • Creative Table Arrangements for Your Event

    Before you make arrangements for the chair and table rentals for your special event, consider the physical arrangements of the items in your space. Try to break up the floor plan in a way that’s visually appealing by using different types of party rentals. For example, you could have two very long, rectangular tables separated by a row of smaller, circular tables. Or, you could have two long, rectangular tables lined up right next to either side of a shorter, rectangular table that acts as the head table. The result would be one unbroken “U” shape.

    Perhaps you’re planning a wedding, and you intend to emphasize the presence of the dance floor. Include four long, rectangular tables in your wedding rentals list, and have them frame all sides of the dance floor. Just leave some walking space between the tables.

    American Party Rental is a local leader in affordable, high-quality party supplies for every special occasion. Call us at (512) 837-6500 to inquire about chair and table rentals in Austin, TX.

  • How to Propose a Toast Like a Pro

    People have been toasting with alcoholic beverages for at least a couple thousand years. It’s thought that the ceremonial toast got its name from the piece of spiced bread that was added to beverages during the 17th century for the purpose of enhancing flavor. Fortunately, that’s one tradition that has died out, but proposing a toast is still a good way to drink to someone’s health and future prosperity. If you’re planning a special event, you may be expected to give a toast. Use the following tips to propose a toast like a pro. Don’t forget to rent the right party supplies, like elegant glassware!

    Prepare your toast in advance.

    Your toast will be better received if you plan what to say in advance. Write your notes on an index card. Index cards are rigid enough to be easily held up and referred to. Unlike a speech, you could write down your toast word-for-word, since it will only be a few sentences long. This may be best if you’re particularly nervous about public speaking, or if you’ve never given a toast before.

    Choose the right time to propose a toast.

    It’s always a good idea to propose a toast before you have much alcohol in your system. However, do wait until all of the adult guests have received their drinks. Wait until all of the guests are seated. Then, stand up to get the guests’ attention. As you do so, hold your own glass in front of you, a little bit above the level of your waist.

    Keep your toast short and concise.

    Unless every guest has already met you, introduce yourself briefly. Say a few words about why everyone has gathered together. Then, raise your glass to eye level and share a wish for the future. Start your sentence with “May.” For example, say, “May the happy couple’s love endure forever.” Conclude your toast by dedicating it. For example, say, “To the happy couple.” Then, simply take a sip and take your seat.

    For all of the special event rentals you’ll need in Austin, TX, you can turn to American Party Rental. We make it easy to find everything you need for your wedding or company party, so you can focus on perfecting your toast. Call (512) 236-5773 or browse our party supplies catalog online.