Brexit – whatever happens, let’s party!

Posted on March 26, 2019 by James Mallinder

Brexit has been rumbling on now for nearly 3 years and we are waiting with bated breath – how is it going to affect the future for us all? The outcome is still pretty murky with none of us really knowing what’s going to happen.

As a business, we will be approaching it in the knowledge that we will adapt accordingly, whatever happens. As some clever person once said, ‘what will be, will be’.

We like to look on the bright side at Igloo Disco and we know that situations which throw up the biggest problems often throw up the biggest opportunities. The unknown is always scary but with it brings opportunity and growth.

If you’re with us in this thinking, now is the perfect time to keep morale high, whether that’s at work or amongst friends and families. We are offering some amazing discounts on Igloo Disco packages booked with us when you quote ‘always look on the bright side of life’. At Igloo Disco, we don’t need an excuse to party, but we’re happy to help you find one!

We are here to help with all of your party needs, big or small via our boutique events planning company providing unforgettable parties in our inflatable Igloos, offering the ultimate ‘wow factor’.

We’re your one-stop party shop, giving you the full party package and taking the leg work out of the organising by providing an events management service with it.

So who’s with us?! Let’s keep positive and remember to always find a reason to party!

Igloocast 03 – James Winter

Posted on March 21, 2019 by James Mallinder

Our second slice of igloocast is brought to you by James Winter, who has spent eight years as a house DJ, six years as a producer and five years as a promoter, running his own nights in Leeds, London, and co running two successful events in Melbourne.

Igloocast, brought to you by Igloo Disco, The Ultimate Party!

igloodisco.co.uk

Top 5 Festivals This Summer

Posted on March 20, 2019 by James Mallinder

Festival season is the around the corner, but you’re spoilt for choice! The diversity in festivals is growing and it’s becoming seemingly difficult to gather the squad and choose the right one. UK festivals are renowned for their creativity and extensive lists of the world’s best performers. Whether its electronic music or live bands that gets ya movin, we’ve created a list of the top 5 hottest festivals to check out this summer.

El Dorado

You may not have heard of this little gem, and that’s the beauty of it. This underground and still relatively unknown festival is akin to the rebirth of The Secret Garden Party. It’s funky, full of color and creativity with an impressive electronic music line up. If you’re a drum and bass lover or consider yourself a disco diva, this festival can cater to all. Boutique camping is available for those who glamp in style! Originating from a club night in Leeds called Cirque De Soul, these guys really know how to throw a party. Shake your money maker on the floatable lake stage or find your zen at a yoga class in the healing fields. Expect fancy dress, floating stages, ball pits, water slides and fire throwers. This festival truly is an asset to the UK festival scene.

Boomtown Festival

The infamous Boomtown festival is on its 11th year, and boy do they know how to bring the vibes! The stage production is like no other, this is a city rather a festival! Get lost and explore the intricate winding streets and immersive music venues. The city is split into four distinct districts each with their own quirky story and characters to assist you along the way. This is the ultimate alternative festival, expect punk, gypsy swing, jungle, drum and bass, psytrance, techno, reggae and many more. Spend the day at inspirational talks and workshops and the evening dancing all over the city. Create your own story at boomtown, this is the ultimate alternative experience.

Houghton Festival

24-hour music I hear you say? Yes, this is the festival that never sleeps. Whether you are a night owl or an early bird, there is always a beat for you to dance to at Houghton festival! Brought by the legend himself, Craig Richards and produced by Gottwood – it has been voted the UK’s best new festival. A plethora of true musical and artistic talent is on offer and with no phone signal on the site, you’ll be teleported into a new dimension of dancing. So for this one, put down the iPhone and pick up your dancing shoes. A fine selection of techno and house music is on offer and a selection boutique camping to choose from. Tipi’s or yerts to airstream camping vans are up for grabs! Electronic music lovers, this certainly not one to be missed!

Reading and Leeds

The legendary annual pair of festivities from north to south are renowned for their impressive and unique line ups. Starting in the midst of 1961 this festival has and continues to host some of the world’s biggest legends on their stage. If bands are more of your forte, then Reading or Leeds is for you! Bands by daylight and dance music by night. This festival never fails to impress festival goers of all ages and walks of life. If you’re heading to Leeds, just don’t forget your welly’s! This 5-day festival never fails to provide copious amounts of mud but endless amounts of fun. For a good all-rounder – Reading or Leeds is the festival for you.

Glastonbury

The best has to be saved for last. The legendary Glastonbury is the holy grail of all festivals. Still going strong since 1970, this festival is notorious for its stone circle sunrises and has offered generations of enjoyment. It takes the throne as the largest greenfield festival in the world, holding 175,000 people. The history of the hippy began here and it’s an absolute must for any festival goer. Tickets are competitive so get registered and have your phone and laptop at the ready. And don’t forget your map, Glastonbury is not one to get lost in! This is the ultimate experience, so if you’re a serious festival frenzy then this is the one for you.

So there you have it, the five hottest festivals to check out this summer! Festivals are just as much about the people around you, so round up the troops and get partying this summer!

Demi Brookes

Festival Fashion Tips

Posted on March 20, 2019 by James Mallinder

Our tips for festival fashion

The long winter nights are passing and you’re dreaming of those sweet summer days. Festival season is nearing which only means one thing…festival fashion! Festivals are a time to let go of conventional dress code and channel your inner unicorn. This is a time where glitter smeared all over your face is totally acceptable and fluorescent coloured wigs are there to save your bad hair days.

Festival fashion is no longer a pair of wellies and a waterproof coat, it’s a time to express your sartorial prowess which society suppresses. There are no rules, so big and as bold as you please! However, you don’t want to be cliché so we’ve created a list to ensure you get the insta-savvy look this season!

Coloured Hair Braids and Wigs

When in doubt, wear a wig! When do you ever have the chance to match your hair to your outfits? Short, long, curly or braided… this is the ideal way to keep you looking fierce and tame your mane! Ever fancied a fringe and a short bob but too afraid? The looks are endless and fuss-free. If you are not a fan of wigs, why not try rainbow coloured braids? French Platt with your favourite colours and you’re set up for the festival with some serious sass.

Kimono Kimono Kimono!

An absolute festival must is a selection of kimonos. The kimono is the star of the show, whether you’re a sucker for paisley or a die-hard tie die lover, there is a kimono out there for you! The beauty of it is, a few savvy kimonos jazz up simple shorts and t-shirts and enable you to pack light. Perhaps choose three distinct statement pieces and you’ll have a different look each day with little fuss! Channel your inner bohemian babe or disco diva with a unicorn sequin look.

Eco Glitter

Become a mermaid but remember to look after our beautiful oceans, eco glitter is a cruelty-free way to shine! Play around with different colours and sequins, whether its half-moons from your temples or under your eyes, get creative and transform your face into a disco ball. Glitter goddesses don’t just apply it to their face…why not try French plats and a glitter parting? or a diamond pout with glitter lips? It’s super easy to apply, use Vaseline or another adhesive and dab away! Festival fields are your time to sparkle, so don’t forget your ‘guilt free’ glitter!

Put on your Dancing Shoes

You want to avoid a blister disaster, so pack your shoes wisely! Comfort really is key here, but comfort can be cute! Why not try some rainbow laces in your favourite pair of doc martins or a pair of tie die comfy socks? Take your comfiest boots and jazz them up with accessory’s to look fab but be functional.

Statement Piece

You are a queen and you deserve a crown! So why not spice up your life with a festival head crown?! Whether you’re vibing a flower power hippy chic or a sequin dreamer it’s time to take back your throne queen bee. Or perhaps make your statement in a feather headdress and become a true warrior goddess. Or maybe your sass can be embraced in a sequin military hat. Whichever you fancy, just remember it’s all in the headwear, honey!

Be Practical but Fabulous

British festivals are renowned for pouring it down, but that doesn’t mean you have to dampen your sass. By all means, remember the practicalities but make them fabulous. Why not try a holographic unicorn raincoat rather than a plastic poncho? Or strut your stuff in some wedge wellies. A fur coat is the best way to stay warm but stay sass. Bet on a bum bag, but make it a sparkly one! And remember your sunglasses for those ever-changing sunny spells, use it as an opportunity to pull off the wackiest pair you can find.

So there you have it, a fashionista guide to festivals this summer! Whatever the weather, there is always a way to look insta-fabulous. However, the best accessory is your smile, so make sure your shining and smiling at the festivals this summer.

Demi Brookes

Party Planning Checklist

Posted on December 26, 2018 by James Mallinder

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]So you’ve decided to throw a party, but where do you begin?!

Throwing a party is certainly rewarding, but it requires adequate planning for a smooth sailing ride. On the big day, you want to be enjoying your party with your guests, not stuck in the kitchen swamped with last minute baking. This party planning checklist will offer you 20 necessary tips for planning a party alongside a time structured plan. Undoubtedly, the first month prior to your party requires the most brain power, so if you’re planning a party for next month it’s time to get to action. Follow this guide in a linear order for plenty of free party planning ideas.

One month out: party planning checklist

1) First of all, let’s go back to basics. What is the purpose of this party and who is it for? This may seem blatantly obvious, but to establish this grounding will ensure efficiency for the rest of the planning. Whether you are throwing a Birthday, Christmas or a party to celebrate, be sure to have your purpose before the planning begins. Once you’re clear on purpose, it’s time to think about the budget.

2) Being realistic is key to beginning your planning. Yes, you may want to impress your loved ones with an evening of lavish but know your limits. Take your time here to mull over your expenditure and establish a budget that works for you. Try splitting your budget into venue, catering and entertainment for a workable structure. Regardless of your budget, you can get creative with DIY decorations and bake your own food. Once it has been established, the real fun begins!

3) Now it’s time to choose a time and a date. Having a date in mind is essential before searching for venues, in order to ensure availability. Timing is also crucial so that your guests can put the necessary arrangements in place to attend. The purpose of your party will determine the obvious times and date to choose. If you are throwing a party aimed at adults, early evenings would be your best option. Or if it’s a party for children, Saturday mornings are ideal. Consider the purpose of your party to establish a suitable time and date!

4) Next, location, location, location! Where would you like to throw your party? Is it suitable for the size of your party? Is this location accessible for guests? What are the public transport links? Do you need to pay for your attendee’s transport? These are all important questions to consider within your budget! Whether you are planning to throw a party in your home or rent a space, think carefully about how to your guests will travel. Once this has been considered, contact the venue with your time and date to inquire about availability.

5) So you have your budget, date, time and location! But what’s a party without people?! Time to whip out your address book and decide who to invite. At this stage, you need to know how many people you want to cater for, this will make the verdict considerably less daunting. Make sure your numbers are realistic and in alignment with your budget! Unless you want to invite every man and his dog, spend time considering your guest list.

6) The guest list can take a while, so during this brainstorming think about your theme! Having a theme can excite your guests and get them in the party mood. What is the specific purpose of your party, could you align this with a fancy dress theme? Or you could gear your catering towards a particular theme such as Mexican night? Get creative and think about how you can personalize your party.

7) The final step for the one-month countdown is to get your invitations out. Hopefully deciphering through your Facebook friends has provided you with a finalized guest list. You have your location, date and time and possible theme in order. So now you’re ready to get the word out! The most popular and efficient way to do this is online, but you could keep it traditional and have invitations sent through the post. Just ensure you have an RSVP system to ensure attendance.

Three Weeks: party planning checklist!

You’re one week closer! You have the foundations lay down for your ‘do of the decade’ so let’s get down to detail.

8) Food and drink. Firstly, referring back to your purpose, are you planning on supplying food? A fancy three course sit down meal or a finger food buffet? Would you like canapes and snacks throughout or are you opting for a liquid lunch? Consider your timings here. Will your guests be hungry at the time of your party? If you are supplying food, keep in mind allergies and vegetarian options! Secondly, keep the liqueur flowing! Whether it’s cocktails or mocktails, make sure there is enough to go around. Drinking, whether it’s alcoholic or not is a focal point of every party. Consider your guests and make sure you offer a variety for everybody.

9) Choose your suppliers! You’ve made a final decision on food and drink, but are you going to hire party caters, in-house staff or provide homemade goodies for your guests? As commonly referred to throughout these party planning tips, check your budget! Decide if you can pencil in a cocktail waiter or whether you would prefer to order in the supplies and ask a friend. Searching for suppliers is a big task, so be sure to establish what you would need to hire and whether you would prefer to provide it.

10) Next is the décor. Why not try creating a mood board to channel your décor ideas?
From balloons to table pieces, create yourself an essentials list before you start surfing the web. No doubt you will want it all, so take your time here comparing prices and working with your budget. Once you have a good idea of exactly what you will need, write a shopping list! Spend the majority of week three researching your supplies to ensure you grab the bargains. And before purchasing online, check the arrival date! Any goods coming from China could turn up a little too late for your big day. A tip to save on your budget is to consider being your own supplier by getting creative and crafty.

11) Now it’s time to think about Entertainment. You’ve visualized the décor, the food and drinks are in order but how will you keep your guests grooving? Adjust the ambience to the purpose of your party and then plan entertainment accordingly. Music should be your first protocol, would you like to hire a DJ or ask a friend to come and spin some records? Perhaps you would like to hire a band or ask a family friend for an evening of acoustics. Whatever suits your purpose, just keep in mind that music is key! If you’re planning a kid’s party, think about entertainers or if it’s a family party, ensure entertainment for everybody.

Two-weeks to go: party planning checklist!

Phew, you’re halfway there! And the best part is, you’ve done most of the hard work. The two- week benchmark is the time to check detail and confirm that everything is in order.

12) Ensure you have ordered all of your supplies, and double check your delivery date! You don’t want to find yourself missing 150 plastic cups on the day of your party. Go over your list and ensure you’ve ordered all of the necessary means.

13) Follow up with any bookings, if you’ve decided to hire a DJ or a caterer, drop them an email to confirm the times and dates.

14) Spend the rest of this week creating any DIY decorations such as personalized table name cards and homemade bunting.

One week: party planning checklist

It’s so close…time to get moving!

15) Whether you have decided to hire caters or provide refreshments, spend this week shopping for your necessities. Everything from food and drink to party poppers, make sure you are thoroughly prepared. If you are preparing food, be sure to spend a few days prior to the party prepping this accordingly. Why not splash out on your party frock or a fancy suit? Get your outfit in order, to reduce a stressful morning of digging out your wardrobe on the big day.

16) Send out a reminder and check RSVP to all guests. You need to be certain on a final number of guests, to ensure you have enough supplies.

17) If you are hosting your party at home, why not have a trial run of the layout? Move around the necessary furniture and have a spring clean. Visualize the party and begin your decorations a day or two before the party. Pull out necessary crockery and begin to set up.

On the day: party planning checklist

Finally, the day you have been waiting for! No doubt the party excitement and anxiety is high! Be sure to get an early night before and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to seize the day.

18) Finalize all of your decorations, perfecting the last few touches. Prepare the bar and layout space for your caterer or set up your buffet. Whichever approach you have chosen, ensure food and drink is ready for when the guests arrive.

19) Get the music pumping! Set up the atmosphere, whether you are in your home or at the hired venue. Get the music on early, so you’re already in a party mood for when the guests start arriving.

20) Have fun! You’ve spent the past month planning and perfecting this party, so enjoy it! Being a ‘hostess with the mostess’ includes attending the party. Everything has been so carefully planned that you can relax and bask in your own production.

So there you have it, 20 party planning tips to guide you through planning your party. Hopefully this guide has given you the support needed in order to throw the perfect party. (expand).[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Prom Entertainment Ideas

Posted on November 25, 2018 by James Mallinder

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]So you’ve made it! High school has come to an end; GCSE’s will no longer be the focal point of your existence! You’re ready to roam free and let the world become your oyster. You cannot contain your excitement, but it’s also the end to an era, a long one indeed. You’ve put your blood, sweat and tears into high school but it’s also the place that has shaped you. You have met your friends for life and you’ve become a team. So now it’s time to plan a night to remember with the people you will never forget…

The initial excitement of having all of your favourite people, in one place, celebrating freedom is certainly overwhelming. You ask yourself, how do we give our prom the wow factor? I can let you into a secret: it’s all centred around prom entertainment. From the moment guests arrive, you want the atmosphere to thrive, magnetising everybody to the dance floor! It’s all exciting, but try not get lost in the midst of this! Prom entertainment ideas take a lot of careful consideration. But don’t worry. This guide will give you an insight into exactly where to start!

Pick a Theme!

Choosing a theme is where the fun begins. This is a chance to delve into your creativity. Before asking yourself what activities are offered at proms, let’s determine the basis. Themes can be as wild as your imagination, from Mardi Gras to Alice in Wonderland. This all depends on personal preference. For a touch of elegance, traditional black tie formal or 1920’s theme could be appealing. A masquerade ball is another option, adding an element of mystery to the evening. Determining your theme gives the foundations for your prom entertainment ideas.

Determine Your Budget

First of all, prom entertainment can be as little or as large as the budget. A guest appearance of Justin Bieber or one night only with Drake sounds dreamy. But it’s not MTV cribs…so being realistic is the first step to determine costs. For prom event planning, you want to aim for cost-effective entrainment, keeping everybody starry-eyed without burning a hole in your pocket. You want people to be dancing, so let’s begin with the music.

Prom Entertainment: Music

Music is the universal language; everybody loves to shake a leg. So choosing the music is the top of your prom ideas list! Hiring a DJ who knows how to get the crowd rocking with the 90s classics, all the way through the “noughties” to your top 40 is a great place to start! Whether it’s Ashanti and Ja Rule that gets the guests moving, or a disco classic, a DJ can offer it all. A reminiscence of Cotton Eyed Joe from your primary school discos is bound to get the shapes thrown. Requests can be made throughout the night to please everybody: slow dances to break dancing. Therefore, a DJ offers smiles all around.

Live bands are another option to consider. Hiring a live band can offer a unique musical experience, with a particular genre or a band to cover all of the classics. If you have decided to gear the prom towards a particular theme, a tribute band could be a great option. The bottom line is, that as long as the dance floor has plenty of energy, it’s a winner!

Prom Entertainment Ideas

Prom entertainment does not stop with just music! Remember the parties from your childhood…magicians, bouncy castles, games. Although you may be a little old for pass for the parcel, why not consider these childhood classics into your school prom ideas! First of all, magic at all ages is entertaining, so blow the minds of your peers and hire a tip-top magician, you never know what trick he has up his sleeve! A photo booth is another great option to consider, who doesn’t like capturing the moment in a fake moustache and a cowboy hat?! A fancy dress photo booth will get capture the Kodak moments, whilst providing endless amounts of fun.

If you want to push prom entertainment to its limits, a cabaret show may be exactly what you’re looking for. Why not lure the guests away from the dance floor, with exquisite acrobatics hanging from the ceiling or performers playing with fire? And if circus acts aren’t your thing, get glamorous and hire Paparazzi photographers. Give your guests the gift of stardom, from the moment they arrive on the red carpet to the final boogie!

Prom Entertainment: Décor

So, you’ve decided how to keep the guests grooving and thoroughly occupied, but the visuals are of equal importance! In order to appeal to all of the sense, let’s discover a way to visually grab your guests. It’s all in the ambience, darling! Be sure to choose a venue that can be dressed up with fairy lights and a disco ball. Depending on your theme, you may have specifics but just be sure you’ve pencilled in a strobe! Décor is determined by your budget, from homemade bunting to chandeliers. This is where prom organising companies can take the reins in a true transformation of a venue and bring your dreams into reality.

Prom Entertainment: Refreshments and Catering

We’ve covered what activities are offered at proms, but eating and drinking is an activity, right?! It’s certainly a crucial part of the package. Get gastronomically glamorous with a luxury chocolate fountain or a gourmet selection of canapés. Prom organising companies can cater to your needs, providing mixology and impressive pop-up cocktail bars. Whether you are interested in a banquet for the kings and queens or a platter of punch bowls, just be sure to provide enough for everybody.

Summary: Get Planning

So, there you have it: a guide to planning your school prom! Hopefully, your creative juices are flowing and you’re bursting with ideas. On a final note, if you would like to give your guests the equivalent of a party bag, why not try school leavers’ hoodies? You’ve provided a night to remember, so let them be reminded each day of just how awesome your class was!

Now it’s decision time, which theme excites you? DJs or brass bands? Photo booths or bouncy castles? If your mind is boggled with extravagant ideas, get in touch with our prom organising experts for professional guidance.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

6 company Christmas party ideas

Posted on October 2, 2017 by James Mallinder

In charge of organising the big company Christmas knees-up and terrified of making the wrong decision? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. To alleviate your misery, we’ve compiled a list of the six best Christmas party ideas your employees are bound to love.

Riddle me this

For the logically inclined, here’s a great team-building exercise to get everyone involved. Working together against the clock, the idea is that you’ll solve lots of puzzles, codes and riddles. At The Great Escape, there’s a host of rooms with differing themes to choose from such as King Arthur’s Secret, Alcatraz and the scary-sounding Asylum.

Skates on

As clichéd as it can be, ice skating is best enjoyed at Christmas time, and brings out the inner kid in just about everyone. Even if you just make it a part of the work Christmas celebrations, you can’t get much more festive than wrapping up warm to glide around the Christmas tree.

Cook off

Everyone loves food, and possibly cocktails even more so you can’t go too far wrong by booking everyone in for a Christmas cooking and cocktails session. And just as you’d expect at a cooking school, you get fed after you’ve made your foodie delights, and maybe even a Christmas gift box to take away if you’ve got a particularly generous allowance.

Kings and queens

What an enchanting venue a castle makes. Picture the scene: the Christmas trees will be glistening with lights, the reindeer will be munching away on carrots and attendees will love sipping on the mulled wine while it’s cold outside. A venue like this screams out for a murder mystery game and a true banquet meal.

That’s the ticket

Possibly one of the most extravagant ideas, book an entire carriage aboard the Belmond British Pullman for a luxury train trip to remember. Sommelier-selected bubbly, a customised menu created from the freshest ingredients and a ticket wallet to go away with are some of the perks if you decide to whisk everyone off their feet.

Reely good fun

An integral part of Christmas for many and a good excuse to cosy up with popcorn and a hot toddy, a Christmas movie marathon makes for a fun and relaxed Christmas party. Choose a few of the office’s favourite films, find a good venue such as this one and make sure there are enough beanbags or comfy seats to everyone to unwind.

If you have an idea that you think needs bringing to life, why not consider a party in an igloo? Ours make fantastic, ‘wow-factor’ venues and can be customised in all the ways you can think of from lighting to music.

These Questions Will Make Sure You Choose The Right Party Planners

Posted on September 25, 2017 by James Mallinder

So, you’re throwing a party and have decided to hire a party planner? Exciting times. Party planners are professionals who take charge of planning, organising and coordinating your party. By hiring a party planner you’re gifting yourself a range of benefits. Not only are they experienced in what they do, they’ll have a range of contacts, already knowing the best DJ’s, bars, security, and more, so you can relax, with peace of mind everything is being done for you.

Truth be told, organising a party can be difficult, especially if you have never done it before, and this is where party planners come in. They will come up with party ideas for you to agree or disagree with and once the initial idea is set, they will get down to the nitty gritty of organising your party. But the question is, how do you find the party planners that do it best? To help you decide, here’s a set of questions to ask to ensure you get the best party planner to not only organise your party, but make it one you’ll never forget.

What’s Their Area Of Expertise?

To find out if the party planner is a good fit to organise your party, ask them what types of parties or events they most frequently work on. If their reply is corporate events and you are looking to throw an epic 18th birthday party they may not be the best fit.

Generally, you will want to find a party planner that frequently works on planning birthday celebrations. They will have past experience of what ideas work well, what doesn’t work well and have great ideas to present to you. At the end of the day you are in charge and it’s your birthday, therefore if the party planner has no prior experience when it comes to planning a party, you have every right to walk away – you’re the one with the money after all.

What Services Do They Offer?

It is important to know what services your party planner is offering, as you want to make sure they can fully handle all of your requirements. Ask yourself this, what do you need them to do? Do you want them to find a venue? Find a DJ? Organise catering? Find a bar? Many party planners, as mentioned above, will have a network of contacts they work with regularly and could get a better rate on pricing than if you went to hire these people individually.

You need to find out if they are capable of organising your entire party, as some party planners offer a full service, whereas others include, on the day party planners, they will be there on the day to esnure it runs smoothly but won’t have helped you organise your party. There are also planning-only party planners, who will help you plan your party but won’t be there on the day. Therefore making sure you hire the correct party planner who will be there through the planning and on the day is important.

What Is Included Within Your Budget?

Firstly, you need to set a budget. The party planner has to understand this and not only stick to the budget, but make the most from it. Bear in mind that within your budget, you will also be paying for the party planner themselves as they don’t organise your party for free. Unless you somehow know a family friend who is in the party planning business who will do it for free.

A budget is important as it is very easy to go wild and spend money on unnecessary items, so be realistic and honest with your party planner. A good party planner will forecast all of the costs for you, so you can get that fire breather you so desperately need!

Are They Compatible With Your Party?

Before hiring a party planner, you need to make sure they will be compatible with your party, this means that they specialise in planning birthday parties and not weddings or corporate events. You need to have a party planner who can relate to your ideas and specifications, who can also have their input suggesting other options available that is still sticking to your theme and wavelength.

You have to find out if they will listen to your ideas of how you want your party to be, or if they will try to cut corners and make life easier for themselves. You wouldn’t want someone who isn’t on your wavelength, not understanding your style or the vision you have in mind.

How Many Successful Parties Have They Thrown?

Ask to look at their track record or portfolio, if they haven’t thrown many parties before then maybe it’s a good idea not to work with that party planner. A party planner with a good track record who has thrown many birthday parties that have gone down a treat with previous clients, then you know this planner is trusted and clearly good at their job.

Do They Have References?

References from previous customers offer a great way to get an insight of what they are like to work with and if they do a good job. This can be if they are reliable, if they listen to your ideas, if they will stick to your budget and so on.

Hiring a party planner is a great way for you to chill out on the lead up to the big day instead of worrying about the finer details. A party planner will do all of the organising for you and will think of items you may have missed such as having a music permit if you are using a rented field. If you ask all of these questions, then you will be on the right track to hiring an amazing party planner who will make your party one to remember.

You Need A Party Planner & A Venue Provider. So Find A Company Who Can Do Both

Here at Igloo Disco, we can plan and organise your birthday party held in one of our amazing pop-up nightclub igloo’s. We pride ourselves on supplying a stress free party planning service, so you can relax and enjoy the build up, until the day of your party.

And Compare Some Different Venue Types

If you are thinking of hiring a pop-up venue but you’re not too sure of where to start, we have come up with a venue comparison guide. Check it out below.

Now You Know The Best Alternative To Marquee Hiring

Posted on September 20, 2017 by James Mallinder

If you spotted someone using a marquee for a celebration years ago, you’d have probably looked at it and said, “I want one of those for my party.” Fast forward to the here and now and the novelty has probably worn off a little, mainly because everyone seems to be using them for absolutely anything but don’t worry, there are great alternatives to marquee hiring.

Maybe it’s The Great British Bake Off moving to Channel 4 that put you off marquee hiring for good. Or factors like the build time of a marquee (and how long until the team comes back to remove it), the cost as well as the capabilities in bad weather, no wonder you’re looking for an alternative.

Luckily for you, there are plenty of different types of venues that can suit all of your needs. You want something you’ll never forget? How does a pop-up nightclub in your own garden sound? There are many fantastic venues available, so let’s go through them all and see which venue is the perfect one for your party.

Giant Structure

You’d have people talking about your party for the sheer size of the giant structure, making your traditional marquees look ordinary. You don’t need to worry about the horrible and unpredictable UK weather blowing it away either, and you’ll be having one serious party based on the size and the capacity.

These are the kind of thing you might have been in at a big country fair, racing meet or polo final. They’re sturdy and impressive.

Multi-Deck

You’d usually find the incredible multi-deck structures at car or horse racing events, but there’s nothing stopping you from hiring one for your party. The top floor is a frame marquee while the lower floors are temporary decking, and it all contributes to an epic night nobody attending will ever forget.

One floor could be the dancefloor and nightclub, whilst the other could be a place to relax and watch the action with a cocktail.

Nordic Tipi

Nordic Tipi’s have proven to be popular choices at parties, festivals and weddings, where the tipi-shaped tents can be attached to other tipis to create much bigger tents. The larger the tipi, the more guests it can hold, and the unique structure makes it very memorable.

They’re a popular and well-known alternative to marquee hiring at private parties.

Stretch Tent

If you want more freedom and creativity with your venue, then a stretch tent is a great choice. This structure is a large tent which uses stretchy fabric to give it a unique shape, so your exterior is one that will totally stand out and leave people seriously impressed, and it’s why you see them used frequently at public events and festivals.

Saddlespan

The saddlespan tent offers a lot more versatility because of the size and the style on offer. You see them at gigs, corporate events and parties because of how innovative the design is compared to other structures, and will definitely give you a music festival vibe in your garden.

If you’re in the middle of a heatwave and want the outdoor feel but with additional shade, these are perfect.

House Party

Hiring a venue isn’t a necessity, as you can choose to turn your own home into a nightclub where you don’t have to worry about things like the weather and heating or insulation. If you invest in unique decorations and transform your house into something special, you’ll avoid hosting another standard house party.

Just remember to lock away that heirloom dinner set and put some carpet covering down.

Inflatable Igloo – Yes, Inflatable Igloo

How often do you see turn up to a party and expect to see a massive igloo waiting for you? If you truly want to party in style and leave your guests gobsmacked, hiring an inflatable igloo is the latest trend you need to hop on compared to other structures.

You won’t even need to worry about keeping your neighbours up, thanks to the great noise retention. It also sets up in just a few hours. It has that wow factor you’d desperately want and has plenty of other benefits compared to other structures you might be considering – not least, the fact that each igloo comes with a team of experts who make sure you have a party you’ll never forget.

But We’re Most Concerned In Making Sure You Have The Perfect Party.

Do You Need a Comparison Guide to Help You Choose the Perfect Venue?

If the idea of a pop-up nightclub in your own garden is something you love the sound of, you need to make sure you’re picking the perfect venue that will suit all of your needs.

There’s a great deal to consider, so take a look at this helpful guide and see all of the pros and cons of all of the different types of structures in a lot more detail here:

Why Marquees For Parties Are The Worst. It’s Not GBBO FFS!

Posted on August 29, 2017 by James Mallinder

Everyone has seen a marquee, and the majority of people have been to an event held in one whether that’s at a wedding, party or at the local agricultural show. They have lost the wow factor as they are used numerous of times over and over again; yes, they look pretty (if they are done up correctly) but there are quite a few disadvantages of using marquees for parties. Here are some reasons why party marquees, in our opinion, are the worst…

Build Time

Marquees are large fabric structures which rely on timber poles and rope to be erected. As the process of putting up a marquee is intricate; it can take between 2-3 days for the marquee to be up and functional. Therefore, if you are hiring out a field, you may have to hire it for a good 5-6 days which can easily become costly.

Even if you are having it in your garden, it means that you will have people traipsing in and out of your garden, using your facilities within your house for almost a week. Lets just say you will go through a lot of cups of tea whilst the marquee company are setting up.

Sound

If you are having a marquee set up in your back garden, make sure you invite your neighbours as the canvas fabric used with a marquee isn’t soundproof. If you are wanting to party the night away, make sure you let whomever will be affected by the noise aware that there will be loud music playing from your garden until all hours, unless you want neighbours banging down your door throughout the night or facing confrontation next time you cross paths putting the bins out.

Cost

When it comes to marquees the cost varies as you may be tricked into thinking it’s cheap; however, most companies charge extra for the lining of the marquee, extra for the flooring, extra for any furniture etc. That means the total cost of an actual functioning marquee is likely to be in the £1000’s.

Many marquee companies may point you in the direction of hiring a DJ but will not do it for you; plus as marquees are outside, it’s down to you to hire portaloos and a functioning bar. Therefore, making the cost of your event even higher.

Overall you will be paying for a field to rent for over 5 days if you can’t use your back garden, the marquee, a DJ, a mobile bar, portaloos, and you may also have to pay the marquee company for their time putting up and taking down the marquee, which means the nice idea of having a birthday party in a marquee is going to be costly and time consuming.

Size

Marquees come in a variety of sizes which all depends on how many guests you want to attend your party – obviously, the more guests the bigger the marquee. The bigger size marquee you decide to get the more it will cost.

Given that the British weather is very hit and miss, insulation may be necessary as, even in the Summer, temperatures can drop and the rain can lash it down. They aren’t necessarily made for the Winter season as, even when lined with the canvas sides, they will not keep much heat in. As you have to pay extra for the canvas lining, larger marquees will be a lot more expensive to hire out, and even smaller marquees can be costly if the canvas lining is needed.

Style

If you are throwing a party, you want it to be the best and stand out from anyone else’s you have been to or are going to in the future; you want people to remember your party and, sadly, they aren’t going to do that if you use a marquee for your venue.

Marquees are very popular as they are the most known pop up venue that you can have in your garden or a hired field. They all look the same and, unless you spend a lot of money decorating it (if the marquee company allow you), they are pretty dull.

Depending on the marquee company you use, you may end up with a marquee that has previously been used at an agricultural show, therefore, could turn up full of mud and smelling like animals which won’t be pleasant for your guests, but, hey, at least your party will be remembered for smelling like and looking like it’s just come off a farm.

Removal Time

With the setting up time being between 2-3 days, the removal time can take just as long, again that means you may have marquee installers still lingering around 3 days after your party has finished.

After a marquee has been taken down the job doesn’t end there for you. As marquees are set up using poles and lines, your garden will be left looking tattered with large pole hole marks. The marquee company will only remove the marquee they will not tidy up or fix your turf after the party; they see that as not their responsibility.

Are Marquees Waterproof?

A marquee is resistant to rain but with the British weather we can get rain with gail force winds from nowhere. Marquees can stand the odd downpour; however, they are vulnerable to high winds. I’m sure you’ve all seen the You’ve Been Framed Videos of marquees blowing away with traumatised guests inside.

If this Summer season is anything to go off, rain is inevitable even when the sun is supposed to be shining. Do you really want to take that risk and pray there are no high winds the day of your party?

The weather can also affect the setting up process. High winds will prolong the set up time to the point where the party may have to be cancelled due to the fact that the marquee isn’t able to be put up safely and securely.

Marquees Are Commonly Used

Marquees are used a lot for weddings, birthday parties, country fairs, and more. They are a common site across the UK as people don’t really know too much about what else is available. They are good at creating a venue outside for guests to be catered for, dance and have a good time, however if you are looking for something to stand out a marquee isn’t what you are looking for.

Hire An Igloo Disco

When it comes to your birthday party, you will want something different; something that you and your friends will remember for a long time. We have the answer; why not hire an inflatable igloo nightclub for your garden or field. Our igloos come with all the add-ons such as DJ’s, bars, facilities, floors etc and it takes a few hours to set up and take down. There are so many benefits to hiring an igloo disco.

Be like Kem off Love Island and celebrate your big day in an igloo.

If you are still unsure about the types of venues you can have outside and the pros and cons of each, we have created an easy to read eBook which goes into detail about every popular outdoor venue.

If you want to find out more click the button below: