The WOW! Factor of Atlanta

Interesting Thanksgiving Facts

2011-11-21T08:36:00.001-08:00

Pilgrim Facts

The Pilgrims were originally called Puritans or Separatists because they wanted to purify the Church of England from Catholic influences and they wanted to separate from the Anglican Church, leave England for a new land
The Pilgrims first settled in Holland when they left England but feared that they would lose their cultural identity so they left for a new land
The pilgrims brought beer with them on their voyage
The pilgrims chose Thursday to have their feast because it was the day that they had their mid-week prayers
The real Plymouth Rock is now about the size of a car engine. It’s been cracked 3 times. Once it was cracked in half during the Revolutionary War when it was being pried from it’s location to be put on a pedestal.

Celebration Facts

Sarah Hale (1788-1879) , editor of the the women’s magazine “The Godey’s Lady’s Book”. Sarah is credited as the person most responsible for making Thanksgiving a national holiday in the US. She hand wrote letters to Congress for years asking them to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday.

Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving to be the LAST Thursday in the month
In 1939 President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved Thanksgiving up one week to help stimulate the Christmas shopping economy. It did not go over very well, in 1941 Congress voted that Thanksgiving would always be on the 4th Thursday of November and made it a Federal Holiday.
Gimbels in Philadelphia was the first department store to hold a Thanksgiving parade in 1920. Four years later Macy’s had it’s first Thanking Day Parade.
The Kids Table was an established part of the celebration by the 19th century.

Turkey Facts

North Carolina produces the most turkeys.
Turkeys can run 25 mph, fly 55 mph for short distances and they can drown if they look up in the rain.
Full grown turkeys have approximately 3,500 feathers. The dangling skin under their neck is called a wattle and the skin that hangs over it’s beak or nose is called a snood.
When Butterball started it’s Turkey Talk line in 1982 six home economists responded to 11,000 phone calls
You should thaw a turkey ONE WHOLE DAY in the refrigerator for every 4 pounds of bird, wrapped laying breast side up
You should cook all your turkey stuffing ingredients just before you stuff the bird. Do not make it hours or days in advance.
The best place to put the meat thermometer is in the thigh.
Male turkeys are often referred to as a “Tom Turkey after Thomas Jefferson. Benjamin Franklin mockingly created the name after Jefferson opposed his idea to make the turkey our national bird.
In 1947 President Harry S. Truman was the first to pardon a turkey, starting a long standing tradition.

And finally a few words about Cranberries

Wisconsin produces the most cranberries.
To make sure that it is not too ripe to for harvest and sale, a cranberry must bounce at least 4 inches high.

{Simple and Amazing}

Cranberry Sauce Recipe

From Savory Sweet Life

Prep time: 2 mins

Cook time: 15 mins

Total time: 17 mins

Serves: 2 cups

12 oz bag fresh cranberries
3/4 cup orange juice
2/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup white sugar
Optional: 2 oz gold rum

Place all the ingredients in a sauce pan and cook on medium-high for 15-20 minutes or until most of the liquid has reduced – stirring occasionally. You’ll hear the cranberries popping – don’t worry, that’s what you want them to do. Remove from heat and serve. Cranberry sauce can be made days ahead and brought to room temperature or slightly heated before serving.

Happy Thanksgiving!

There’s no fest like an Oktoberfest!

2011-10-03T10:10:00.001-07:00

To most people an Oktoberfest event is a time to drink beer, eat, sing, mingle, sport lederhosen, listen to polka music, try to speak German and perform the Chicken Dance!
Oktoberfest, is a 16–18 day festival held annually in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, running from late September to the first weekend in October. The first Oktoberfest was held when Crown Prince Ludwig was married to Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen on 12th October 1810. The citizens of Munich were invited to attend the festivities held on the fields in front of the city gates to celebrate the happy royal event. The festival was eventually prolonged and moved ahead to September to allow for better weather conditions. Here in the Atlanta area we find that the weather is best for these outdoor events from the end of September through the beginning of November.
At The WOW! Factor of Atlanta we offer a wide variety of Oktoberfest foods, Brats and Hot Dogs with Sauerkraut, Hot Pretzels and German Potato Salad are favorites and easily served to large crowds.

Catering your

own smaller event?

Try making something a little less common such as Hot Sauerkraut Balls. And if you are serving Bavarian Beers keep in mind the higher alcohol content and monitor your guests consumption so that you are a responsible host.

Don’t forget the sweets!

Strudel and German Chocolate Cake are a traditional favorites among many. The WOW! Factor of Atlanta offers funnel cake bars with Black Forest Funnel Cake being a crowd pleaser! It’s funnel cake topped with cherry pie filling, whipped cream and chocolate syrup.

Food, Drink and Fun is always more enjoyable with some great music if a live Oompah Band isn’t possible playing a cd of party polka music can get your crowd moving just don’t forget the Chicken Dance!

Creating a Popular Trendy Menu for a Large Crowd

2011-06-17T11:40:00.001-07:00

Creating and choosing a menu for a large crowd can be daunting even to the most seasoned party planner. The WOW! Factor of Atlanta specializes in planning and catering large corporate events. Over the years we have learned what works well with larger groups and different agendas.

Small Bite Sized Appetizers

Keep your guests mingling with multiple stations of wide range of flavors in individual servings and impressive displays of cheeses, fruits, and vegetable crudités.

Gourmet Dips- creamy hummus, spinach dip and artichoke dip served with small julienne vegetables such as carrot, celery, zucchini, summer squash and cucumber served in shot glass size cups.
Gourmet popcorn or nuts in single serving cups.
Pinwheels Sandwiches- offer portion flexibility, cut small or larger for heartier appetizer servings
Mini crab cakes offer a budget friendly way to add seafood to your menu

Individual Creations

Make your event fun and memorable! Let your guests create and build their own desserts. It sparks conversation as guests compare notes on newly discovered or favorite combinations.

Ice Cream Sundae Bars – A recipe for smiles with crowds of all ages
Yogurt Parfait Bars- A variety of yogurts with an even larger variety of granolas and dried fruits and nuts make a very heath aware choice. People in general are much more aware of their health and fitness; they enjoy any “indulgence” that doesn’t completely un-do all their hard work in the gym.

Offer new or interesting ingredients that your guests will enjoy experimenting with: chocolate covered sunflower seeds, childhood cereal favorites, sweet & salty flavor combos such as pretzels, chips, nuts with honey, syrups, & chocolate

Other Bar Ideas

Trail Mix
Cup Cakes
Crepes
Waffles

“Bars” can be created around many cost effective foods.

Sweet Stations

Sweets are always a welcomed part of any party menu; why not make them the star attraction?

Cupcakes & Cookie Buffets

A wide variety of tempting choices displayed at different stations fosters mingling. Take it to the next level of elegant, fun and offer milk in stemmed glasses for a non-alcoholic “Milk Toast”
Candy Stations

Can be a budget friendly, fun alternative to cocktail hour. Nostalgic favorites or colorful combos that follow your theme are always a big hit. Include small branded bags so a little of the party goes home with everyone
Pies

Are fast becoming the popular indulgence with gourmet creations made of seasonal flavors such as Pumpkin Cranberry Bash and decadent combinations such as Chocolate Raspberry Bash, no one will be able to resist!

Eco Friendly

Whatever your event reason or theme, give your guests another level of “feel-good” by letting them know your event is environmentally friendly!

Recycling- prominently displayed containers for recycled items let’s everyone know the event is being responsible when it comes to wastes
Eco-friendly bottled beverages, plates, & utensils are becoming widely available and more cost effective. Ask your caterer for these options.

Including recycling drives for items such as books, cell phones, batteries, or computers is a great way to party with a cause!

“Haute” Hot Dogs

Hot dogs have come a long way from the ball park and are becoming a popular menu choice for corporate functions.

Make sure the set up is impressive, serve all beef dogs from NY style hot dog carts
Offer the true New York or Chicago Dog experience with all the traditional fixings or push your hot dot menu even further outside the box with a variety of flavorful toppings

a variety of shredded or crumbled cheeses
marinated vegetables like olives or artichokes
pickled vegetables like banana peppers or jalapenos
sun-dried tomatoes
hummus
bacon
pickle spears or slices
pimento cheese
guacamole
fruits like pineapple, pears, avocado or apple slices
nacho cheese sauce
salsa
pesto
teriyaki sauce
any type of sauce that complements the type of dog you’re serving

Don’t forget the usual hot dog toppings, like mustard, ketchup, chili, sauerkraut and relish for those guests who crave a classic dog

Variety of buns

potato
white
sesame seed
French roll
even a tortilla for a Mexican-style dog!

Don’t forget the vegetarians! Vegetarian dogs should always be available for your guests who do not eat animal products.

Whether your next event is for 100, 1,000, or more and you are in the metro Atlanta area, The WOW! Factor of Atlanta can be your secret weapon for a successful event. Our experienced event planners will guide you through all the decisions necessary, to cover every detail while keeping your party’s purpose and budget in mind.

770-924-8268

Southern Barbecues

2011-04-11T10:34:00.001-07:00

However you spell it; Barbecue, Barbeque, BBQ, or Bar-B-Q, is popular in the South both as a meal and an event. As a caterer in the south The WOW! Factor of Atlanta serves up a lot of barbecue!

It is believed that the word barbecue derives from barabicu-sacred fire pit, a word found in the languages of both people of the Caribbean and the Timucua of Florida. The origins of American barbecue date back to colonial times, with the first recorded mention in 1610, and George Washington mentions attending a "barbicue" in Alexandria, VA in 1769. As the country expanded westwards along the Gulf of Mexico and north along the Mississippi River, barbecue went with it. As it took root it took on many different variations of flavor and ingredients, influenced by the locale.

Pork is the most popular meat used in barbecue. Pigs came to the Americas with the Spanish explorers, and quickly turned feral making them a low-maintenance food source. Due to wide-spread poverty and the effort needed to catch, slaughter and cook and entire pig, it became a cause for celebration. These feasts were sometimes called 'pig-pickin's.' Traditional southern barbecues of today grew out of these gatherings.

The WOW! Factor of Atlanta can make your next barbecue an event to remember! Whether your guest list is 100 or 1,000, we can provide everything from the food and drinks to the tenting, seating, and entertainment.

We’ve got Carolina Style!

In the Carolinas barbecue is usually pork, served pulled, shredded, or chopped in a sauce that varies by region. Carolina sauces can be made of just vinegar and pepper or have ketchup added to create a sauce that has a hint of sweetness. Another Carolina sauce that is popular is a mustard based sauced with vinegar, sugar, and spices. Our favorite sauce is the Kansas City Sweet Sauce, it’s the classic rich, sweet-tart, tomato-based sauce often sweetened with molasses or brown sugar and balanced with the tartness of vinegar.

Don’t forget the Slaw and the Napkins!

Our menus come complete with everything that you will need for your Barbecue. Our professional, experienced planners can create a complete menu from beverage to desserts that will please your guests and fit your budget. Some of our popular sides are:

Cole Slaw
Potato Salad
Corn on the Cob
Pasta Salad
Baked Beans
Mac-n-Cheese
Brunswick Stew
Macaroni Salad
Garden Salad
Assorted Chips

We Serve more than Pork!

While Pulled Pork is always a crowd pleaser we also have other meats to choose from.

BBQ Chicken Pieces
Ribs
Pulled Chicken
beef Brisket
Grilled Chicken
Rotisserie Chicken
Hamburgers
Hot Dogs
Chicken Wings

Serving Metro Atlanta

770-924-8268

Let’s Put the Fun Back in Foods!

2011-02-21T10:42:00.001-08:00

Fun Foods is the term that is often used to describe such favorites as Hot Dogs, Popcorn, Cotton Candy, Sno-Cones and many other portable treats that you have enjoyed while at a county fair, circus or amusement park.
What makes a Food Fun? Well for starters it’s got to be tasty, full of sweet and/or savory flavor and you’ve got to be able to eat it with minimal fuss. Whether you’re behind home plate or center ring at the circus, balancing a plate with fork, knife & napkin on your lap is no fun and can be hazardous to your pants. Fun Foods tend to be served on a bun, stick, cone, or come in a paper bag for easy eating on the go. This makes Fun Foods a great menu choice for a lot of parties.

Offering fun foods such as Cotton Candy or Sno Cones, in their wedding colors is becoming popular with Brides. Some even work these treats into a signature drink. Making a fun conversation starting treat for their guests at the reception.

Hot Dogs & Corn Dogs are a natural for picnics and sports outings but our New York Style Hot dog carts are a big hit at indoor events too! Next time you need to cater a meeting, think outside the “Boxed Lunch”!

Ice Cream is delicious when it’s hand scooped and served with a myriad of yummy toppings such as an ice cream social or when it’s frozen on a stick like you used to get from the ice cream truck. The WOW! Factor of Atlanta has several cold plate ice cream carts that are a hit at every party. We carry a wide variety of Premium brands such as Good Humor, Breyers, and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream.

Funnel Cakes are fried dough treats that are best served warm. You can even customize your funnel cake with our Funnel Cake Bar with such toppings as powdered sugar, fruit jams, Chocolate Syrup, fresh fruit, ice cream, and whipped cream.

Walking Tacos or Frito Pies are a Southwestern treat. They are a great menu item that each guest can customize with toppings such as Chili, Chopped Tomatoes, Onions, Lettuce, Shredded Cheese, Sour Cream, Cheese Sauce and Salsa. Your guests can choose to leave off the Chili for a Vegetarian option.

Pretzels, Popcorn & Peanuts, are very budget friendly Fun Foods. Serve one or all of these the next time you want to create a special afternoon treat for the office. They are a natural addition to any event with a sports theme. Loved by all ages; our selection of gourmet flavored popcorns are a big hit with even the most sophisticated of crowds.

The WOW! Factor of Atlanta has specialized in Fun Food Catering since 1991. We can create an entire Fun Food menu for your next event or add a few Fun Food items to a more traditional menu. Fun Foods are budget friendly, loved by all and can put your guests in a great mood making your event a success every time!

Valentines Suggestions from The WOW! Factor of Atlanta

2011-01-28T10:43:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day is a time to show your love for your spouse, significant other, best friend, children, or even yourself! While some may have the resources and the budget to get swept away with decadent dinners, fine chocolates and expensive flowers, you do not have to spend a fortune to show someone that you care. This year, why not make an effort to create a special something for you and your special someone?

Love Notes and Cards

You can visit your local card shop or even shop online to send your sentiments, or send an e-card. For the price of a pad of Post-its you can leave several notes for your beloved to find. These little love notes will let them know exactly how you feel.

Share a Special Meal

Whether you decide to invest in Steak and Lobster Tails or you share a plate of spaghetti and meatballs Lady and the Tramp style, sharing a meal together is one of the most primal methods of bonding. Simple or decadent the meal should be special.

Dine by candle light
Re-create the meal from a first date
Serve a favorite dessert
Have a romantic picnic on the living room floor

Chocolate is a Must!

At the WOW! Factor of Atlanta we have chocolate fountains that always make the event special. Our chocolate fountains serve hundreds but you can have the same treat at home by making chocolate fondue.

Easy Chocolate Fondue
Ingredients

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

2 tablespoons butter or margarine

1 (14-ounce) can EAGLE BRAND® sweetened condensed milk

2 tablespoons water

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

In heavy saucepan, over medium heat, melt chocolate chips and butter with EAGLE BRAND® and water.
Cook and stir constantly until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Remove from heat. Add vanilla.

Serve in a fondue pot or pour into a warmed ceramic or glass bowl and place the bowl over heated water that's in a larger container making sure that the water will not get into the container holding the chocolate.

Use wooden skewers or fancy toothpicks to dip fresh fruit such as strawberries, cherries with stems, orange sections, melons balls, pineapple chunks, , banana slices, apple wedges, grapes, peach chunks, plum slices, pear slices, or kiwifruit slices
Pound cake cubes, angel food cake cubes, plain doughnut holes, pretzel logs and marshmallows also make tasty dippers.

Toast to your Love

Pour a couple glasses of your favorite vino, sit with each other and relax, listen to music, or look at some photos of the good times that you have shared together.

Want something non-alcoholic? Enjoy some rich hot chocolate, or make a fruit spritzer by adding some seltzer water to your favorite juice.

Gifts & Flowers

Roses are a Valentines Day staple, if dozens of them do not fit into your budget a single rose presented the right way will be just as appreciated.
If you have children this is the perfect time to get them involved to make a gift filled with love. Many websites have ideas and instructions for crafts for all ages.

Whatever you decide to do, make it come from the heart and enjoy the moments together in honor of the day!

Having a “WOW Factor” Thanksgiving

2010-11-12T10:16:00.001-08:00

Some people look at Thanksgiving as a 4-day weekend and the chance to get together with family. Others look at it as the start of the holiday season and the day before Christmas sales start. The majority of us look at the day as an opportunity to share a special meal with the ones we love and reflect back at the year and give thanks for what we have. No matter what Thanksgiving means to you there are certain elements that no Thanksgiving can be without. The first of those is the meal!

Most people serve the traditional turkey with all the familiar side dishes. When selecting a turkey figure one pound per person. Not having a huge crowd this year? Cook a turkey breast instead of the entire bird, figure 1/2 pound per person when buying a boneless breast and 3/4 pound per person when buying a boned breast. Any leftovers you have you can make some Turkey Soup or Turkey Salad and enjoy your bird for another meal!

Don’t forget the sides! No self respecting turkey would be seen on the table without being surrounded by a plethora of scrumptious side dishes such as Candied Yams, Stuffing, Hot Rolls and at least one or two vegetable casseroles. Is the menu starting to overwhelm you? Then make dessert as easy as pie. Over half of Americans prefer pumpkin pie for dessert on Thanksgiving; apple pie comes in a distant second but is equally as delicious.

To a lot of people Thanksgiving means eating yourself silly then sitting and watching hours of football. Why not plan and start some new family traditions this year.

Keep little ones busy while you are cooking with some Holiday Crafts that can double as a table center piece or place card holders.
Make everyone write what they are thankful for on a piece of paper and put it into a hat then during dessert take turns reading the slips of paper out loud and guessing who’s thankful for what.
Take a walk after dinner and enjoy nature.
Rent a Holiday Classic and make it a family movie night.
Volunteer! It may mean postponing your family dinner until later but after helping those less fortunate you’ll will enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner even more.

However you plan your Holiday, The WOW! Factor of Atlanta hopes that you and your family have a Happy & Safe Thanksgiving!

Books for Treats

2010-10-25T10:25:00.001-07:00

It’s that Trick-or-Treaty time of year again! This year The WOW! Factor of Atlanta would like you to consider giving Books for Treats.

What is Books for Treats?

Books for Treats is a program that encourages you to give “gently read” children’s books at Halloween instead of candy.

Why give children books instead of candy at Halloween?

Books feed children’s minds, while candy only feeds their cavities. Books encourage children to read, and parents to read with them and/or ask them about their books. Many children rarely receive books as gifts, so even gently read books are special treats.

In the United States, 30 million adults possess below-basic literacy skills. Eleven million are non-literate in English.
- National Assessment of Adult Literacy

How would I get inexpensive books? Kids’ books are expensive!

Collect clean, re-usable, gently read children’s books from garage sales, library book sales, used book stores, thrift stores, or recycle any books that your children may have outgrown. By recycling your kids’ books, you allow these books to continue to give pleasure, long after your child has outgrown them.

What will the kids think about getting books instead of candy?

Kids, as well as their parents, are thrilled by receiving books for treats. They are much more enthusiastic than we have ever seen them when we gave candy. We have witnessed many children running to the sidewalk waiving a new treasure yelling “Mom, look! I got a book!” We also saw a group of kids standing on the sidewalk showing each other their books. And we heard one girl greet a friend coming from the other direction “Hey, this house gives books! Cool!”

Who’s supporting this program?

Books for Treats started in 2001 and the idea is catching on with Public Libraries in several states such as California, Texas, Iowa, Arkansas, and New York. You can start your support this year, it’s not too late! Gather gently used age appropriate books. if you don’t think that you can get enough books in time have them at the door to offer along with candy. Give your Trick-or-Treaters a choice better than chocolate vs. taffy.

Want to Support Literacy the Rest of the Year?

Donate your gently used books to Better World Books and you will not only be supporting literacy efforts worldwide but you will be raising money for local charities and keeping valuable resources from landfills. The WOW! Factor of Atlanta sponsors collection boxes in Woodstock, Georgia. Funds raised by books dropped into any WOW! Factor of Atlanta collection box will go towards The Elm Street Cultural Arts Village Project and Georgia's Parent 2 Parent Cherokee Navigator Team.

Fall Themes

2010-10-01T09:28:00.001-07:00

Cooler weather isn’t the only part of Autumn to look forward to. The Fall Season also brings many special days and events that make terrific themes for your parties and events!

Back to School- Get the kids excited about the new school year with a party that celebrates everything academic. Be sure to plan plenty of hands on activities such as sand art or spin art to keep all your guests occupied. Finger foods such as chicken nuggets, fruit and veggie trays always get an “A” grade from the elementary crowd.

Football- Score a touch-down with a tailgate inspired by America’s favorite fall sport. Chicken Wings, Hot Dogs, & Hamburgers along with plenty of sides and cool beverages should keep your team ready for play. Games such as horse shoes or bean bag toss can be set up for team or one on one play.

Harvest- Whether it’s Apples or Pumpkins, a celebration about the earths bounty is always in season. Get creative and use fresh harvest items as part of your decor, feature them on your menu, and incorporate them into your games! You can even set up a photo op area with pumpkins, corn stalks, bales of hay, or baskets of apples.

Oktoberfest- Brush off your lederhosen and polish up your beer stein. make sure to have plenty of brats on hand and the infectious sounds of a polka band.

Halloween- Children of all ages love dressing in funny or scary costumes to enjoy the tricks or treats of this ancient holiday. Remember your guests that may have special dietary needs when planning your menu. Try and have Sugar-free and Dairy-free options.

Election Time-Republican, Democrat, or Independent; a good time gets everyone’s vote! Red, White, & Blue is a natural for a color scheme and the “All-America Hot Dog could be the front runner for a tasty economical menu item.

Veterans Day- Patriotism and service to our country should be celebrated every chance we get. What a wonderful opportunity to incorporate giving back into your event. Have guests bring donations or recyclable items to collect at the event.

Thanksgiving- Good food, friends and fun is something to be thankful for. Businesses might take this opportunity to show appreciation to their staff or clients. If your budget is tight consider a potluck; as the host you could supply the main entree and ask guests to bring side items and desserts. This gives everyone a chance to show off a family recipe and make your Thanksgiving just like the first one!

Labor Day Festivities

2010-08-31T10:42:00.000-07:00

The first Labor Day in the United States was celebrated on September 5, 1882 in New York City, shortly after the massive Pullman Strike. President Grover Cleveland put reconciliation with Labor as a top political priority after the deaths of a number of workers at the hands of the U.S. military and U.S. Marshals. Fearing further conflict, legislation making Labor Day a national holiday was rushed through Congress unanimously and signed into law a mere six days after the end of the strike. The holiday was proposed as a celebration of labor. The original plan called for a street parade to exhibit to the public "the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations," followed by a festival for the workers and their families. This became the pattern for Labor Day celebrations.

Traditionally, Labor Day is celebrated by most Americans as the symbolic end of the summer. The holiday is often regarded as a day of rest and parades. Speeches or political demonstrations are lowkey, although events held by labor organizations often feature political themes and appearances by candidates for office, especially in election years. Forms of celebration include picnics, barbecues, fireworks displays, water sports, and public art events. Families with school-age children take it as the last chance to travel before the end of summer recess. Similarly, some teenagers and young adults view it as the last weekend for parties before returning to school, although school starting times now vary.

Some Annual Celebrations around the US

Washington D.C.
An annual free concert by the National Symphony Orchestra is performed on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building.

Detroit, Michigan
The "Motor City", where the automobile unions were born, has a major Labor Day Parade that's one of the biggest in Michigan. The free three-day Detroit Jazz Fest is scheduled for Labor Day Weekend, too.

Rutland, Vermont
One of the United Sates oldest State Fairs runs September 3-12th

Orland, Florida
Joyner Family Reunion-this big bash at Walt Disney World happens on Labor Day Weekend, with special entertainment plus theme park fun.

Los Angeles, California
Street Fairs, Long Beach Greek Festival, "Fiesta Hermosa" arts and crafts festival with kiddie carnival, and more.

Brooklyn, New York
The Brooklyn Labor Day parade on Monday, September 6, 2010, also know as the West Indian American Day Parade & Carnival. This year celebrates its 42nd anniversary as it continues to enjoy the distinction of being New York City's biggest cultural festivals by far.

Aspen Colorado
Jazz Aspen Snowmass is a Labor Day Jazz Festival

Cleveland Ohio
Cleavland national Air Show featuring the US Navy Blue Angels

Knoxville, Tennessee
Boomsday is a free fireworks display with an estimated 350,000 attendees

Atlanta, Georgia
Art in the Park or Dragon*Con are two big events that will get a lot of visitors this holiday weekend.

Rah Rah Sis Boom Bah!

2010-08-16T11:35:00.000-07:00

Fall is just around the corner and you know what that means...TAILGATE SEASON!!!

Team colors, friends, great food, and fans are just a few things that make your tailgate event the best ever. Tailgate parties used to include a few drinks, simple snacks, and a couple sandwiches before a game. Now, tailgating has evolved into America’s most popular sports traditions.

Whether it is baseball playoffs, college or professional football, or even a party to celebrate your fanatic loyalty to your favorite sports team, tailgate themed events are always a crowd pleaser; especially when food and good friends are involved! Food is by far the most important ingredient when planning a fall tailgate event.

It’s very important at your party to make sure that you have appropriate food to match your tailgate party theme. It’s not going to be a hit if you have a salad bar at a sporting party. Guests come to parties expecting certain foods to be at those parties and while you can vary the recipes a bit you should try to stay on track with what guests expect to eat and with the type of guest you expect at your party.

For instance, the guys who show up at that tailgate party are going to be expecting what some may refer to “as man food.” Think chicken wings, corn on the cob, pasta salad, hamburgers and hot dogs, BBQ, baked beans, popcorn, chips, etc. You can have fun with this to make your party planning a little more interesting. Try mixing up some Italian or Mexican seasoned thick potato chips by drizzling them with olive oil, vinegar, and Italian or Mexican seasonings. Set up the food in a buffet format. This way guests can serve themselves at their leisure and there is not a lot of party etiquette rules to have to follow which sets the relaxed tone of the event.

Remember: Don’t forget the condiments! The varied kinds of sauces that everyone likes for dipping such as ketchup, mustard, hot sauce, sweet and sour sauce, ranch and blue cheese dip is a must so that your guests can customize their plate to their liking.

For dessert, you can bake cookies or individual cupcakes for the guests (or any sweet treat that your guest do not have to cut). You can also vary the baked item according the party guest’s age group. For someone in their teens you might think about cupcakes. For older guests you might want Twinkies and Ding Dongs that are reminiscent of “the good old days.”
You may also want to include some fun interactive games to keep your guests occupied during commercial breaks or time outs.

Some helpful tailgating tips:

Always keep things simple and fun
Make a check off list so you don't forget important items like paper plates, napkins, plastic forks, and spoons and of course the paper towels.
Trash bags will surely be appreciated when it's clean up time and of course remember to bring plenty of water.
A good tailgater dresses the part so don't be caught without your team colors!
Serve the main menu item an hour and a half before the game so everyone can relax and enjoy their food.
Keep in mind that this is a fun social gathering, so keep things easy and entertaining for yourself and your guests and do not get overwhelmed but...

If all of this sounds overwhelming or your number of guests is too large for you to handle on your own, consider working with The WOW! Factor of Atlanta so you can be sure your tailgate party runs smoothly and successfully. We offer a wide range of menu ideas, games, decorations, and more to customize your team celebration the way you like.

What The WOW! Factor of Atlanta Brings to the Table

2010-07-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

These days it is hard to find an event planning and catering company that is authentic, down to earth, and even friendly! Well, The WOW! Factor of Atlanta is all of those things and much, much more.

Our name, The WOW! Factor of Atlanta, came about as a direct result of comments made by many of our clients regarding the excellent quality of events and high level of customer service we provide on all of our parties.

We specialize in event planning and catering for guests in the Metro Atlanta area (a detailed list of the kinds of events we specialize in is below).

Our attention to detail, excellent customer service and a wide variety of themed events sets us apart from other event planners and catering companies. Whether you are looking for an afternoon treat of fun foods, or a complete meal with seating, entertainment and games, The WOW! Factor of Atlanta is the only call you will need to make.

Some of the events we offer are:

Tenant Appreciation - say 'Thank You' with a flare
Evacuation Drills - make your mandatory building drills more fun
Ice Cream Socials - no matter what the occasion, ice cream is a wonderful treat that adds to any celebration. We have up to 74 flavors, so if your imagination can think it...we can scoop it!
Holiday Events - New Years, Earth Day, Halloween- we can help you celebrate
Meetings - company afternoon pick-me-ups are always a hit
Cart Parties - ice cream, peanuts, hot dogs, sno cones, beverages, cotton candy, and funnel cakes
School Festivals
Community and Church Events
...and more, you name it we do it!

What else sets The WOW! Factor of Atlanta apart you ask?

We have a wide variety of menu items to fit any theme.
We specialize in bringing the atmosphere to you - catering your event on site is our full time job. Our staff are not divided between a retail shop and catering your event. So you and your guests are always our top priority.
We are NOT the new kids on the block - we have over 19 years of experience catering and our attention to detail is second to none. The WOW! Factor of Atlanta strives to make each event memorable.
There is no gray area - we are upfront and honest...there are no hidden fees or last minute surprises when it comes to our event planning. Everything you want or need to know is always written out in black and white.

If you are not familiar with The WOW! Factor of Atlanta, we hope you will take a moment to review our website and Facebook page. We are committed to being your one source for all events while providing quality and value that exceed your expectations.

Whether you an ice cream social for 100 or a full meal and entertainment for 3,000, The WOW! Factor of Atlanta is the company you want to plan your next event!

Event Planning for Dummies: Tips to a Successful Catering Event

2010-07-15T10:56:00.000-07:00

Planning events require organization and a lot of attention to detail. Whether it is a big event for a business or company or a smaller more intimate event for a family reunion, hiring an event caterer must be on the top of your to-do list in order to pull off a successful event. Event planning is not an easy job so having an event planner or caterer with experience on your side will save you a great deal of time and stress!

To make sure you are super prepared, here are some top questions you should ask you event planner or caterer:

Do they specialize in certain types of food?
What types of food do they offer?
Can I sample their menu?
What are their prices?
Do they offer food for certain dietary restrictions?
How many types of staff will they provide (servers, bartenders, etc) and what will they wear?
Will the food be prepared on-site or be brought in already prepared?
If my event location does not have a well-equipped kitchen, will they be able to bring in the necessary appliances (refrigerators, grills, etc.)?
Do they work with fresh or frozen food?
How will the food be served (buffet style, table service, etc)?
How long will it take them to set up and break down the event?
Do they require a minimum number of guests?
When will I need to finalize the menu?
Is there a deposit needed?
When in the final balance due?

You may be confused and a bit overwhelmed but take a deep breath and relax...event planners and caterers work to ease your mind and your stress.

To help, take these 5 steps to assure your event planning process goes as smoothly as possible:

Step #1: Plan early. Catering services can get booked up to a year in advance, so contact them as quickly as possible in the planning process.

Step #2: Decide how you want the food served; buffet style or table service, because different caterers specialize in different areas

Step #3: Ask for references and background information to ensure that the caterer is the right fit for your event

Step #4: Request food samples. The taste is everything!

Step #5: Ask for a full price quote and the payment schedule. Some may require a deposit. Also, make sure any fees, such as travel and cleanup costs, are included.

*BEWARE of hidden costs! Do not sign a contract without a price guarantee; otherwise you might get hit with surprise charges on your event day.

Choose a planner or caterer that really listens to you and who you feel comfortable working with. Today, the event industry can be cut-throat and some will do anything to get the gig, even if that means scamming you. So, do your homework and find that awesome event company that is there for you, genuine and personable, and the rest will work itself out!

2010-07-09T10:40:00.001-07:00

The WOW! Factor of Atlanta offers a custom full service barbecue cookout menu. Choose from a variety of options to create the menu you want!

Pulled Pork
BBQ Pieces
Ribs
Chopped Chicken
Beef Brisket
Grilled or Rotisserie Chicken
Hamburgers
Hot Dogs (We use only the best...#1 rated Nathan's Hot Dogs)

Also choose from a variety of yummy side options to create the menu you want!

Cole Slaw
Potato Salad
Corn on the Cob
Pasta Salad
Baked Beans
Brunswick Stew
Garden Salad
Assorted Chips
Macaroni Salad
Macaroni and Cheese

Of course so summer cookout is complete without a sweet finale...go ahead, indulge.

Ice Cream
Fresh Baked Cookies
Gourmet Brownies
Funnel Cakes
Fruit Cobblers

You can also choose from a variety of themes if you really want to spice things up!

So let The WOW! Factor of Atlanta help you steal away from your fast paced life and enjoy a summer cookout...you deserve it!
Call, email or visit our website for more information
www.thewowfactorofatlanta.com

Picnic Perfect

2010-07-06T08:10:00.000-07:00

Many Americans herald the arrival of warm weather with our favorite food ritual, the backyard cookout. From June to September, we eat "out back" most evenings, often inviting a few friends and neighbors to join us.

Cookouts seem to stop the clock. Maybe it's because nothing is rushed, not even the timing, since meals don't have to be piping hot when the weather is warm. Or perhaps it's the scent of smoky foods that turns anticipation into part of the party. But most likely it's the shared euphoria at dining under the sky after an endless winter.

There are always 4 main things one needs to have a successful classic cookout:
*Main Dish that usually includes meat such as chicken, pork, hamburgers & hot dogs
*Summer Sides like cole slaw, corn on the cob, baked or green beans, pasta salad
*Warm Weather Refreshers (alcoholic or non-alcoholic)
*Sweet Finale with brownies, cookies, pies, ice cream, or fruit salad

There are many main dishes you can choose from when planning your summer cookout but the most popular is the hot dog. Below are some fun facts about this American classic!

*Hot dogs, which are also known as "frankfurters", "franks", "weiners", "weinies" and "ball parks", are a staple of the American diet. They are known as the "Common Man's Food" because they're readily available, cheap to buy and easy to prepare.

*The average hot dog is consumed in 6.1 bites

*Baseball fans will enjoy "in the ballpark" of 26.8 million hot dogs at US baseball stadiums this season. That's enough to circle the bases 36,000 times!

*You can custom pile anything on top of a hot dog and it still tastes great, but the most popular topping is mustard for adults and ketchup for kids.

*Weight Watchers includes hot dogs in its medically-approved diet regimen

*Hot dogs were among the first foods that were eaten on the moon

*Top 7 rated Hot Dog brands in the US:

Nathan's
Hebrew National
Louie's All American Kosher Hot Dogs
Sabrett Hot Dogs
Oscar Mayer
Sinai 48 Kosher
Tobin's First Prize

*Favorite Hot Dog Toppings:
-sauerkraut     -relish
-cole slaw        -tomatoes
-chili                  -jalapenos
-cheese              -ketchup
-bacon               -mustard (yellow & spicy)
-onions              -mayonnaise
-hot sauce         -wasabi

-the possibilities are endless!

Love hot dogs but get tired of the same old thing? A cool twist you can try to give your taste buds a treat is wrapping hot dogs, mini or regular, in breadstick or croissant dough and cooking them in the oven.

July is National Hot Dog Month! So go ahead celebrate with one, or many, of America's classic and most delicious foods topped with as many toppings as you like...ENJOY!

WOW! Factor of Atlanta Ice Cream Party Time!

2010-06-21T09:54:00.000-07:00

*Ice Cream Socials*
We offer a build-your-own ice cream sundae bar. Our premium ice cream, toppings, professional serving staff and set-up are second to none. There are many premium ice cream flavors you can choose from. These are some of our most popular:

Vanilla
Chocolate
Strawberry
Mint Chocolate Chip
Butter Pecan
Rocky Road
Ultimate Peanut Butter Brownie
Snicker
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

Some of the most popular toppings include:

Chocolate and Strawberry syrup
Chopped peanuts
M&Ms
Crushed Oreos
Sprinkles
Whipped cream
Cherries

If you would like more of a variety of toppings we offer many other options that may fit your need...all you have to do is ask!

Banana splits and brownie sundaes are available
Rainbow Pops, sugar-free and dairy-free can be included to accommodate special dietary needs
Our social set-up always includes linen tablecloths and skirts, ice cream themed decorations, large colorful market umbrellas, and as always a professional and friendly serving staff.

*Ice Cream Carts*
An ice cream cart is a great option for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a single item that is quick and easy to hand out OR a dessert for a meal, our individually wrapped ice cream treats are always a hit and add some fun flare to every event.
We offer all ice cream brands including:

Ben & Jerry's
Good Humor
Breyers
Popsicle
Dove
Klondike

"What if I want to do dessert at my event but I don't want ice cream..." you ask? We offer other cool treat event ideas as well:

Italian Ice
Candy Ice Cream Pies
Frozen Bananas on a Stick
Minute Maid Frozen Lemonade
Root Beer and Coke Floats
Sno Cones
Cheesecake on a Stick
Gelato
...and much more

For more information and other event ideas, visit our website!

"I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream!"

2010-06-16T11:54:00.000-07:00

Children all over the United States can be heard saying this in the spring and summertime, but ice cream started as a treat for people of wealth and power. To this day, the history of ice cream still remains to be a bit of a mystery. However, ice cream is thought to have come from Rome, Italy where chefs made gelato and Italian ice. But the secret recipes did not stay too secret and soon France and Great Britain were enjoying the delicious cold dessert. Dolley Madison, James Madison's wife, is reported to have served ice cream at her husband's inaugural dinner. This was the first time the dessert was recorded in the United States. The first ice cream shop was opened in Baltimore in 1851. Because freezers were not invented until the 1930's, the ice cream was made at the time you ordered it and enjoyed immediately. Clarence Birdseye was the father of freezing foods. His work made it possible to freeze and sell ice cream like we see today at grocery stores. It doesn't matter if it is on a cone, in between cookies or covered in hot fudge and whipped cream with a cherry on top, today ice cream is a treat that can be enjoyed by children and adults.

Top 5 Most Popular Ice Cream Flavors
1. Vanilla
2. Chocolate
3. Butter Pecan
4. Strawberry
5. Chocolate Chip

*Ice cream consumption is the highest during the months of July and August, which makes sense because July is National Ice Cream Month...the third Sunday in July is National Ice Cream Day!
*The average number of licks to polish off a single ice cream scoop is 50.
*98% of all households in the US purchase ice cream.
*Out of all the days of the week, the most ice cream is bought on Sunday.
*Most popular topping is chocolate syrup...who would have thought!

Love ice cream but suffer from "brain freeze?" Well don't stop eating ice cream. Everybody has a nerve center located on the roof of their mouth. When something cold touches this spot, people get the sensation known as an ice cream headache or "brain freeze." It often occurs only in hot weather.
Prevention: When eating ice cream, try to limit the amount of cold ice cream touching the roof of your mouth.

There are so many choices when if comes to ice cream; from flavor to toppings the possibilities are endless. There is even a choice of the type of ice cream you can get. These include low-fat, light, non-fat, no sugar added and for those of you that are lactose intolerant there is a lactose-free ice cream as well.

So go ahead, enjoy your summer and beat the heat with a big scoop of your favorite flavor of ice cream!

The WOW! Factor of Atlanta

Interesting Thanksgiving Facts

Pilgrim Facts

Celebration Facts

Turkey Facts

And finally a few words about Cranberries

{Simple and Amazing}

Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Prep time: 2 mins

Cook time: 15 mins

Total time: 17 mins

Serves: 2 cups

Happy Thanksgiving!

There’s no fest like an Oktoberfest!

Catering your

own smaller event?

Don’t forget the sweets!

Creating a Popular Trendy Menu for a Large Crowd

Small Bite Sized Appetizers

Individual Creations

Ice Cream Sundae Bars – A recipe for smiles with crowds of all ages

Other Bar Ideas

Sweet Stations

Cupcakes & Cookie Buffets

Candy Stations

Pies

Eco Friendly

“Haute” Hot Dogs

770-924-8268

Southern Barbecues

We’ve got Carolina Style!

Don’t forget the Slaw and the Napkins!

We Serve more than Pork!

Let’s Put the Fun Back in Foods!

Valentines Suggestions from The WOW! Factor of Atlanta

Love Notes and Cards

Share a Special Meal

Chocolate is a Must!

Toast to your Love

Gifts & Flowers

Having a “WOW Factor” Thanksgiving

Books for Treats

It’s that Trick-or-Treaty time of year again! This year The WOW! Factor of Atlanta would like you to consider giving Books for Treats.

What is Books for Treats?

Books for Treats is a program that encourages you to give “gently read” children’s books at Halloween instead of candy.

Why give children books instead of candy at Halloween?

Books feed children’s minds, while candy only feeds their cavities. Books encourage children to read, and parents to read with them and/or ask them about their books. Many children rarely receive books as gifts, so even gently read books are special treats.

How would I get inexpensive books? Kids’ books are expensive!

What will the kids think about getting books instead of candy?

Who’s supporting this program?

Want to Support Literacy the Rest of the Year?

Fall Themes

Labor Day Festivities

Rah Rah Sis Boom Bah!

What The WOW! Factor of Atlanta Brings to the Table

Event Planning for Dummies: Tips to a Successful Catering Event

Picnic Perfect

WOW! Factor of Atlanta Ice Cream Party Time!

"I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream!"