Christmas parties at the office are excellent for fostering good will and camaraderie in the workplace. It helps your employees get to know each other better, and in a setting that’s outside of work. Party games, especially group party games, are also excellent team building exercises. They get people working together, communicating, and having fun! Now as always with party games, there need to be prizes and party favors, and you don’t want to look like a complete cheapskate when you end up giving your employees Post-It pads as prizes. Trust me, you do not want to be THAT guy.

So to help you avoid being THAT guy, here are a few suggestions for office party favors:

Office Supplies. I know. It sounds like a really dull party favor, but hear me out. Excluding the Post It pads, office supplies can be a lot of fun. It also puts a personal spin on the office environment. Cute, quirky office supplies like paper clips with cartoon animals on them, funny calendars, and notebooks are surefire favorites. Notebooks and daily planners are always good, too, and are fairly inexpensive for the office on a budget—like if you’re a small business that’s just starting out. That’s not all. There are really nice bookmarks out in the market today, as well as odds and ends for your employees’ desks. Handheld paper shredders, for one, are kind of fun.

Personalized tote bags. The best thing about these tote bags is that you can carry in them all the fun, cute, quirky office supplies your boss gave you for Christmas. Tote bags come in all shapes and sizes. And as party favors, they’re really neat; you can have them personalized beforehand with the names of each employee. They can be as simple and as elaborate as you want them to be, too.

Desk Accessories. Cubicles can be depressing little places to spend eight or more hours of twenty four a day in, but we can brighten them up and make them feel a bit more like home with odds and ends for your desk. Magnets are great for decorating your office space. Paper weights, puzzles, card holders, and all other types of ornaments are great for the employees who want to decorate their working space.

Coffee Mugs. But not just any coffee mugs. Personalized coffee mugs and coffee mugs with cheeky, funny cartoons and captions on them make for excellent party favors. There are also really cool color changing mugs that, well, change color in different temperatures. And the best part is, you can sweeten the pot, or in this case mug, even more with a few sweets or some nice pens thrown in. Travel and transportation mugs are inexpensive and environment friendly (bonus!) ways to carry your coffee, too.

Sweets. Everybody loves consumables. Virtually everybody loves sweets. You never ever grow out of a sweet tooth. So unless they’re The Grinch, they’re going to love sweets especially when made and decorated in cute and interesting ways, like these Danish chocolates and gift baskets.

And remember: the most important thing about office Christmas parties is to have fun! So have one! Happy holidays!

Whether you’re building a new property or want to replace an existing roof, the material you choose can make all the difference. A roof is one of the most dominant features of a property, taking up to 20-30% of the visible exterior area. The planning stage is crucial therefore, to get the right look and the most durable and effective roofing material. The main materials used in the UK are slate, concrete tiles and clay. There is a wider choice available though and here we look at the different choices in more detail. Considerations will include the coverage, cost, environmental friendliness, expertise required to lay and whether the material suits the area.

Stone

This is a pricey option for a roof covering and would probably only be considered where there is an historical reason to use it – such as in the Cotswolds or the Pennines. Sedimentary stone will separate naturally into thinner sections, similar to slate. They make a good roof material, heavy and strong but they do require a steeper pitch and most likely, a specialist roofer. Clay or metal ridge tiles are often used alongside stone as stone is difficult to achieve a curve with. They are laid with larger tiles at the base and smaller tiles ascending.

Concrete

This is a very popular material for roofing, due to its vast range in tiles available. Such tiles are mainly interlocking which gives greater waterproofing qualities. They can be used on a shallower pitched roof, are economically viable and offer a good, secure fixing. There are a wide range of finishes, textures and colours to choose from including vintage-look and double-roman. The only downside is that concrete tiles don’t have the life expectancy of stone and can weather faster. They do offer greater flexibility and can be adapted easily to fit more tricky shapes, curves and gulleys, for example. For Flat Roofing Gloucester, visit http://premiertradespeople.co.uk/trade-services-gloucester/gloucester-roofing/

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Metal

Metal for roofing might seem like a modern invention but copper has been used in roofing for hundreds of years, particularly for ornate domes and lead flat-roofing during the reign of Elizabeth I. Nowadays, materials like aluminium and zinc can be used for roofing and it’s particularly good for complex shapes and curving. It is highly durable but does have some environmental concerns over production methods. It can be attractive to thieves due to its high worth and run-off can be a worry. Steel tiles are common in Europe as they are light, hi-tech and can be used on low pitched roofing.

Slate

Popular in the UK due to its natural abundance. It is easily split to form thin sections perfect for tiling. To make them water-tight, they do need to be tightly overlapped and laid on battens on top of an underlay. The pitch required is at least 30 degrees and clay or metal ridge tiles need to be applied due to its difficulty in shaping. More modern varieties are available in different colours, but they are normally grey.

The hospitality industry is probably one of the most stressful sectors to operate in. Not only do you have demanding customers coming at you from all angles, but there is a plethora of regulations to wade through and adhere to as well. But with some simple planning and processes in place, you can ensure that your operation runs smoothly. Here we take a look at five tips that will make life much simpler.

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Routine Maintenance and Training

Make sure you have a planned schedule of maintenance checks for all your equipment. The equipment in your commercial kitchen takes a real hammering at times, and the last thing you need is for an oven to break down mid-service. Get into the habit of checking them on a regular basis, and make sure you adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule.

Good staff training is essential in all businesses, but in the hospitality sector failure to properly train employees can result in your establishment being closed down. Make sure that training is an ongoing process to ensure that all staff are kept up to date not only with the menu but more importantly the relevant food safety procedures.

The Food Standards Agency also offers a range of support and guidance for businesses.

The Right Equipment

While, of course, you must have pots and pans in your kitchen, there are three key pieces of equipment that you must get right to prevent serious problems in your kitchen. They are the plumbing, a system for trapping grease and fat and ventilation.

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To a degree the first two go hand in hand. If excess fat and grease aren’t collected properly in grease traps, then it can cause a problem with your plumbing, leading to blocked or burst pipes.

If you’re looking for grease traps for commercial kitchens, whether they are stainless steel or outdoor type, companies like https://www.ukgreasetrapsdirect.co.uk/ can help.

No kitchen wants to be left without water, as it cannot function, and there’s no pleasure in being up to your knees in greasy water if a pipe becomes blocked and then bursts.

Your ventilation system, including cooker hoods and fans, is essential in keeping the kitchen smoke- and steam-free. But these extraction systems can be prone to a build-up of fat and grease too, so make sure that filters are changed regularly.

The recent spate of sunny weather has left many people yearning for summer and all the delights that the season brings. Raspberries are definitely one of the best things about summer, as there are many fantastic ideas to try out.

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Start the day off in the best possible way – add a few to cereal in the morning, pop some in your porridge or make a fresh fruit smoothie with raspberries as one of the star ingredients. Growing your own raspberries is a great way to get the freshest possible fruit and the plants can yield a lot of fruit. This article from The Guardian has some tips for two crops of fruit in the growing season.

Baking

There are so many ways to bring raspberries into your baking. If you’re a fan of brownies why not try adding a handful, folding them in to the batter before baking? A squidgy dark chocolate brownie with sweet, melting raspberries in the centre is a thing of beauty!

If cheesecake is more your thing then try a baked raspberry cheesecake, which would be ideal for a summer dinner party. Alternatively, match the fruit with almonds in a raspberry and almond cake and if you want raspberries out of season, then this sort of cake can be made perfectly with raspberry food flavouring, such as that from http://www.foodieflavours.com/shop/flavours/natural-flavouring/raspberry/. In fact, as fresh fruit can make baked items act a little oddly, raspberry food flavouring can even work better than the real thing!

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Another way to help keep the raspberry flavour throughout the year is to make your own jam. If you’ve never made it before, then jam may seem a bit fiddly, but it can actually be very easy and leaves you feeling like a domestic god or goddess!

Cool down

If the weather starts to heat up, then we’ll all need ice cream. Raspberry ripple is the creamy classic from childhood that can be surprisingly easy to make yourself and it’s ideal as there are many recipes that don’t even require an ice cream machine.

Perhaps an ice cold drink would be a better way to cool down? Try making homemade lemonade with added raspberries then serve the beautiful pink drink over piles of ice. Whatever happens with the weather this summer, bring on the raspberries!

Every infant and primary school teacher knows that budgets are tight in the classroom, and not every school will supply all the items that you might need. As we move into the summer term, it is a good idea to make a list of the most useful items for the classroom.

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Why not plan ahead for the autumn term too, to ensure that you put in requests for all of the essentials?

You may not mind dipping into your own funds for pens and pencils, but most teachers would hesitate to supply their own magnetic dry wipe boards for schools.

Here is a list of 10 essential classroom resources that you really should not run out of:

1. Felt tip pens and sharpies in bright colours

It is impossible to imagine any primary school lesson which does not involve getting creative with pens. Make sure you also have some good spray cleaner for wiping desks afterwards.

2. A box of tissues

These are essential for those runny noses and moments when children are feeling fragile and tearful.

3. Storage files and magazine boxes

You need to have an efficient storage system for keeping children’s work easy to find and in good condition.

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4. Velcro dots and sticky tac

For fixing up posters and artwork.

5. Crayons and coloured pencils

For creative children, these are much better than felt-tip pens, as they allow for shading and variations in colour; for the artistic children in your class, they are essential, and also last longer than pens.

6. Scissors

You need a box of small, safe scissors suitable for small hands, and something sturdier for use by teacher and the teaching assistant, to make life easier.

7. Books

An essential part of any classroom. If you are lucky enough to have a school library, make use of it. For ideas for using literature, getting free books and celebrating World Book Day, see https://www.worldbookday.com/resources/primary/.

8. Portable whiteboards
These are so useful in the primary classroom for flexible working. They can be purchased from https://wedgewhiteboards.co.uk/.

9. Stationery and note cards for writing thank you notes to parents

If you get parents on your side, you may find you have willing volunteers when you need them for events and trips.

10. Glue sticks

Great for classroom papercraft projects.

Photos are not just about the product, whether for fashion or a corporate setting, they are about the message sent. A good photo is pleasing a provocative photo is what sells. When you gloss over a magazine the model showing off the photo should be portrayed to be human yet perfect.

What does that mean? If you have ever looked into a mirror (of course you have but humor me here) say under fluorescent lighting you notice how different features are enhanced or downplayed, certain lighting flatters or destroys a photo and its intended subject

Good makeup, quality products and a picturesque place are an advantage but a good photographer uses his/her knowledge to their advantage to portray a message within the picture and make it something to look twice at or thought provoking as stated earlier on.

The person behind the lens should know how to handle the subject, whether it is a building or a person. A good photographer listen’s to the client and works with what they are given to produce a high quality photo.

For the corporate look the most common photos are during events such as a cocktail party, seminars and office parties. A professional photographer knows how to blend in and work with the given lighting (most corporate events are indoors with low lighting so do not be surprised to see an external flash on the photographer). A good corporate photo is an advertisement opportunity for the company, both to clients and future employees, so picking the right photos show what type of a place the business is.

When employing a photographer, pick one that portrays professionalism. You do not want a photographer who appear in scruffy clothes and flip flops for your wedding. Look at their portfolio and read some of their reviews, you can contact past customers; a satisfied client is one of the best referrals. Take a peek at their website. The Michal Kriesch studios with extensive experience, over 10 years, in the photography business, offer quality photos for every occasion.

The website contains some of the photographer’s best work ranging from portraits to weddings and corporate affairs. The quality of work is superb. His portraits and choice of backdrops and lighting make for exquisite photos.

Any good manager knows that in order for a project to succeed everything must be organized properly for everyone. This is where project management software comes in. A lot of this popular software usually comes at a premium price tag which is often beyond the budget of small to medium-sized businesses. The good thing though is that there are also free project management software’s available that can do the same job.

Open Workbench

If you are familiar with Microsoft Project then you may want to take a look at its free alternative which is called Open Workbench. The main focus of this application is project scheduling and it does a great job. You can access several features such as resource management, scheduling, planning, and reviews.

This is highly recommended software for startup companies who are looking for an effective solution in managing their projects that isn’t complex and expensive.

OpenProj

One other software to consider in managing your projects is OpenProj. This free task tracking application has several features comparable to that of paid versions. It is compatible with Microsoft Project files and uses less resource. Project managers who have tried this software find it a very useful tool for task management.

GanttProject

GanttProject is cross-platform software that works on Windows, Linux and Mac OS X. It has basic project management features that will help you oversee your project to the end. Some of its features include

• Creation of a Gantt chart
• Assigning of human resources
• Generate a PERT chart from a Gantt chart
• Save charts as .PNG
• Generate .PDF and .HTML report
• Import and export projects to Microsoft Project

dotProject

This is web based project management software that helps you in your project layout and control. It has extensive features that make it the choice for company’s who are particular in task management. Some of its features include

• User Management
• Email based trouble Ticket System, (Integrated voxel.net’sticketsmith)
• Client/Company Management
• Project listings
• Hierarchical Task List
• File Repository
• Contact List
• Calendar
• Discussion Forum
• Resource Based Permissions

ReqMan

Managers love to use this tool because it is highly configurable and versatile. It packs in several powerful features such as a planning module, time module, reporting module and even a questionnaire. It is also web based so you need to be connected online.

In times when companies everywhere are making budget cuts it is time to make the smart decision. Even if funding has been reduced any manager can still manage a project by using these free project management software. Although they may differ from the paid versions that some of you are used to it still provides the same end result.

There are a lot of unanswered questions regarding the different procedures involved in liposuction. Many people even remain oblivious of the fact that there is more than one way to perform this procedure which a lot of people are very eager to try out.  Here you can find all the details and information regarding non-invasive procedures for liposuction.

Costs

The different procedures of liposuction have various costs depending on which specific area you want to get liposuction performed upon and how long that procedure will take. Different plastic surgeons have different costs and the location of where it is performed also affects its cost. The prices of liposuction can vary from $1500 up to $15,000 with reference to the more modern methods that are used now. The modern methods, however, are cheaper than the traditional ones as they do not require as much anesthesia, are less invasive and have a shorter recovery period.

Non-Surgical Liposuction

This form of liposuction does not require an invasive procedure and is mostly performed without anesthesia. Various procedures come under this form of liposuction such as laser-based procedure, Smart Lipo, to sound-based Ultrasonic and Vaser treatment. Although these procedures may be referred to as non-surgical, they do involve the use of surgical instruments to some extent for incision. However, when compared to the older more traditional methods, non-surgical procedures are considerably less invasive.

Due to the perks of including less recovery time, cheaper rates and lesser side effects, it won’t be long that this form of surgery will be identified as simple and plain ‘liposuction’. However, before that happens, the less invasive option is one to be considered by anyone looking for cosmetic surgery.

Ultrasonic Liposuction

This sound-based procedure involves the use of a gel that is injected into the fat cells, which is then caused to move in reaction to the ultrasonic sound waves. The movement the gel leads to the tearing of the fat cells; they are flushed out of the body in a natural way, with a minimum amount of pain or discomfort caused during the process. The procedure is carried under local anesthesia and modern machines make the procedure much safer than previously used machines which were scrutinized and their safety questioned.

Vaser Liposuction

This procedure is becoming increasingly popular and attracting a lot of attention after having been introduced within the last decade or so. This form of relatively new cosmetic surgery is the least invasive of all procedures where only the localized area is numbed while the patient is still very much awake. This is also based on ultrasonic laser methods where the ultrasound breaks up the fat cells and flushes them out without affecting any adjacent tissue around the cells and the treated area. On top of this procedure has minimum side effects and very good results, it is also more affordable as compared to other forms of cosmetic surgery.

Smart Liposuction

This form of liposuction, which can also be referred to as Laser Liposuction involves the use of “smart laser” to melt the fat away and naturally flush it out of the body. It is relatively low impact and thus is also very popular amongst those who want an alternative to ultrasonic liposuction.

You may find yourself in a situation where you want to buy a modern fireplace but you have no idea of where to start. In order to choose a suitable modern fireplace, there are tips that you can apply and they include the following:

There are there different types of gas fireplaces and so you need to know which one you need in order to have a modern fireplace. The three types of gas fireplace include the natural vent, the direct vent and the vent free. The natural vent requires a chimney and is hard to install and so it isn’t very common. The direct vent doesn’t interfere with the indoor air and so it keeps you warm. You can install it anywhere you want. The vent free doesn’t need any vent. It, therefore, saves you the cost of installation.

The next step is deciding the particular kind of gas fire you want. There are different styles of modern fireplaces. There is a type that is long and lean and hangs on the wall like a picture. These come in direct vent or vent free gas fireplace styles. It is advisable to go for a vent free one because it is just plugged and play. The second type is built into a wall. These are fresh and pleasing to the eye. It looks like a torch and so it is known as “the torch.” It is small and therefore doesn’t offer much warmth. The third type is the multi-sided one. It is used for dividing rooms, for example, a living room and a dining room and peninsula and island styles.

The third step is choosing how hot you want your gas fireplace to be. You can decide whether you want it to heat your entire home or maybe just one room for example your guest room. This will help you decide on the type of modern fireplace you need.

Choosing modern fireplaces is not a very difficult activity but it should be done carefully in order to help you get one that suits your needs. This kind of investment is almost permanent and so you should choose something that serves your needs and also one that you love. You can consider putting it in a place where it will be seen by a lot of people in order for them to see the beautiful view. You can find Ecosmart Ethanol fires and also modern fireplaces by Ecosmart Fire.

There may be some ways to show friends and family that you have made some improvements to your home since last year’s big get together. With a small budget and a crafty mind, you can make your home look like a before and after episode of This Old House. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty and take on these projects by yourself. Spend your weekend making a difference and know that it will not go unnoticed.

Projects that Won’t Hurt Your Wallet

First off, you can start by ripping up that old nasty carpet that has been bothering you. Head to Lowes, Home Depot, or Menards to and take a look at their vinyl flooring. Everyone loves hardwood floors, but vinyl flooring is fairly inexpensive and looks extremely high end for the cost. Start with one corner using a crowbar and peel it off like a band aid (you’ll probably want to get the furniture into another room for this one).Take some basic measurements of the room, giving you the square footage of the room. You can find calculators on line that will give you a good estimate of the square footage or just ask customer service at your local hardware store. You will need a saw for this one, but cutting is pretty minimal. For more tips and tricks for installing your floors, visit Pete’s Hardwood Floors.

Paint your walls. Choose a color that goes will with your furniture and accents the features of your home. Choose complimentary colors and don’t be afraid to paint more than one room.  With motivation of Holidays right around the corner, you can tackle multiple walls in one day. Choose textures and colors that reflect you and your personality. Painting is a great option for making a big difference on a small budget.

Shop second hand and don’t be afraid to get thrifty. Now-a-days with this hipster movement, you can find great retro pieces with a wow-factor that make your home more trendy. Don’t’ overdo it, though. Keep it simple with minimal key items in your spaces. Look for old furniture with good bones and a solid structure. A little paint or new upholstery might be enough to make it a statement piece with the ideal “wow” factor.

Whatever the project may be this year, call in the friends and family to lend a hand. Sure, you could probably do it yourself but it’s always more fun in the company of others during the holiday season. That’s what the holiday season is all about –helping others. Please exercise caution and be safe! Be careful of ice while climbing latters and hanging Christmas lights. Most importantly, have fun!