Holiday Planning in Lincoln – October 2021

Hip-hip-hooray for the holidays! The next three months are sure to spread fun and cheer with exciting seasonal events and celebrations. For this Holiday Planning story, we spoke to some local businesses on ways that they can help you and your family prep for and enjoy the most joyful season of the year.

Custom Company Gifts

Personalized gifts are always a hit, as they show someone that you put much thought and attention into their present. For easy customization, contact the pros at Relentless Merch (relentlessmerch.com). We spoke to Kyle Jensen, who works in sales and design at Relentless, about how their team can help you create great customized gifts for your whole crew this holiday season.

“Just like we do all year round, we provide company apparel and branded merchandise that make great gifts for both clients and employees,” Kyle explained. “One special thing that Relentless is providing this year is bundles! It’s a really efficient and cost effective way to give out gifts while also spreading a company’s brand using merchandise that people will use repeatedly. With a bundle, we work with a client’s budget to create a variety of items that they can give out as gifts. For example, a koozie, pens, Bluetooth speaker, a sleeve of golf balls, and a coffee mug. Then we package all that up in a branded custom box, and they are ready to be easily distributed. It makes giving out gifts to employees and clients really easy. The extent of what we can create is huge, and just some of it can be seen at relentlessmerch.com and clicking on promotional products.”

To take advantage of this easy and special gift package, or any other customized gifts, Kyle recommends planning ahead to cause less December stress for you and the Relentless production team. After everything is designed and approved, Kyle says the team will want at least three to four weeks to create the products and get everything packed up and delivered in time for the holidays.

“Apparel and bundles can be shipped directly to family, friends, employees, and clients nationwide, and we can help with that fulfillment if needed!” Kyle said. “It’s a great contactless way to remind the people that are most important to making a business operate that they are appreciated. A little thought goes a long way.”

As a business, Kyle suggests to consider what you want to get out of the upcoming holiday season for both yourself and your business. He says that in the apparel and promotional product industry, it’s a great time of year to capitalize on sales.

“Businesses are hosting company parties and giving out gifts and apparel, but also, many clients have a budget that resets at the end of the year, and realize that they have funds left to spend on marketing and advertising,” explained Kyle. “Marketing and advertising expenses are tax write offs, which some companies need from a tax standpoint before the end of the year. Relentless can maximize those dollars so that they promote the business and create more brand awareness and sales to help things get off to a fast start after the holiday season. On the personal side, the planning aspect and not overextending yourself in the busy run-up to the holidays is crucial. The holidays need to be a break from the grind, and planning ahead is essential to being able to unplug from work to spend time with family and friends. It’s a needed mental break after a long year, and recharging for January 1 shouldn’t be something that people skip on.”

Relentless Merch is a unique option for holiday planning because they can take a lot of corporate gift giving stress off of their clients’ shoulders. Kyle encourages those who are interested to contact Relentless Merch as early as possible so that you can remain focused on your business while they work on your great holiday gifts.

Keep Warm During the Holidays

It’s almost chilly enough that we can start drinking hot coffee again – well, maybe some of you never stopped. Regardless of if you like your coffee hot or iced, made at home or in the shop, or you don’t like coffee at all (where are the tea lovers at?), Rock ‘n’ Joe Coffee Bar (rocknjoe.com) has a gift for everyone.

“Give someone the gift of a nice, warm, seasonal drink at Rock ‘n’ Joe this holiday season!” Owner Dennis Nienhueser encouraged. “We have something for everyone. A gift card is a great excuse to try out a new shop that someone may not have heard of, and it takes the guess-work out of giving because it can be used for anything in our shop. We also offer pre-stocked gift baskets.”

Outside of coffee, drinks at Rock ‘n’ Joe include tea, smoothies, artisan drinks, and artisan roasts so you can “rock at home.” They also offer delicious breakfast and lunch sandwiches, pastries, and salads. One of the unique features of Rock ‘n’ Joe is their tasting room that features craft beer and Whisper Wines tastings all day long! Rock ‘n’ Joe has an atmosphere that caters to drink lovers of all types, so stop by today to experience what they have to offer.

Gifts for Everyone

Treat everyone on your company’s holiday list with artisanal chocolate indulgences handcrafted right here in Lincoln. Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates’ (lulubeechocolates.com) bonbons, caramels, chocolate bars, and toffee are an elegant treat that’s bound to wow your clients, prospects, employees, and partners.

“We take great pride in representing your brand,” shared Owner and Chocolatier Gaylene Steinbach. “Whether we add your logo to handcrafted bonbons, make a special flavor just for you, or customize the packaging, rest assured that the taste, quality, and craftsmanship will represent your brand and make your clients, prospects, and team feel extra special.”

Learn how Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates can take care of your gift-giving needs:
• Gift Baskets for Clients – Whether you want to treat your clients to decadent chocolates handcrafted in Lincoln or wow them with a full selection of artist-created bonbons, caramels, and toffee, tell them your budget and they’ll put together gift baskets that’ll make your clients feel like the VIPs they are.
• Indulgences for Prospects – Equip your sales team with a tasty leave-behind, like a bag of their irresistible English Toffee. No doubt this tasty treat will make a strong impression—and, as with all their treats, they can brand the packaging, so prospects remember your company as one that’s committed to providing the best.
• Goodie Bags for Employees – They’re the face of your company and they make you look good every day. This year, thank your team with a selection of caramels or chocolate bars. And, to help you save time, let Lulubee’s take care of local delivery.
• Favors for Holiday Parties – Welcome partygoers with a branded box of handcrafted bonbons. Whether you want your logo on the packaging or it featured on handcrafted bonbons, you’ll leave each guest with a sweet impression.
• Thank-You Gifts for Partners – Whether it’s your trusty printer or delivery partners, let Lulubee’s help you thank your production partners with a big box of handcrafted bonbons or a gift basket so everyone can get a sweet treat.

“To make gift-giving even easier,” shared Gaylene, “we’ll take care of the details. From packaging and shipping or delivering, our team will make sure everything’s perfect for everyone on your list. Let’s start working on your customized treats today.”

Make the Holidays Unforgettable

Holiday events are hosted to celebrate and thank your employees or clients, so it’s important to create an unforgettable experience. Book with Robber’s Cave to show your employees and clients the gratitude you have for them by giving them a night in this exceptional setting. Robber’s Cave (robberscavetours.com) boasts a unique and beautiful venue to wine and dine your guests while also adding in the experience of touring the 5,600 square feet of historic Robber’s Cave Tunnels.

“Robber’s Cave provides three indoor venues ranging in size and look for all your holiday events,” shared Owner Justin Fuchs. “With capacity options ranging from 50 people to over 300, Robber’s Cave has the perfect location to host company events. We also boast Lincoln’s only underground attraction located right below the event facilities.”

When booking with Robber’s Cave, you can treat your staff, clients, and friends to a dose of history by touring the cave tunnels below the venue – the same tunnels that were used by Jesse James in the 1870s. To take advantage of this opportunity, Justin encourages those who are interested to contact him early.

“It may not feel like the holiday season yet, but it approaches fast. Don’t let your ideal date and time get taken!” recommended Justin. “Because holidays are falling on weekends this year, there are less Saturdays available for events. Combined with the lack of events happening in 2020, multiple occasions are starting to stack up this season and dates will be limited.”

Not only can Robber’s Cave give you an unforgettable experience through their unique location and features (such as their catering option from Yes Chef Catering), but it is a great option for holiday events, thanks to their amazing staff and service. If hosting company events is only something you do for special occasions – such as the holidays – then work with the experience of the professionals at Robber’s Cave.

“Lean on us to bring some stress relief to your event planning,” Justin said. “We have staff with over 10 years of experience in this area. Working with the best team in the business is truly what sets Robber’s Cave apart from other venues when it comes to planning and executing events.”

Branded Gifts

Everyone knows that it’s a good idea to get a head start on your Christmas shopping, and gifts for your company are no exception. Flicker Promotions (flickerpromotions.com) works to customize gifts for a range of employees and clients that are sure to show your appreciation for their service and ongoing business.

“Gifts are a great way to show your true appreciation and can be customized with a logo or fun saying to suit your recipients,” said Owner Amy Doele. “Decoration can be understated, such as laser etching on a blanket, or a bigger statement, such as a colorful Yeti tumbler. We can also provide all types of customized napkins, cups, tablecloths, or even signage for your 2021 holiday parties and celebrations.”

Amy can help you customize nearly anything for your company gifts or holiday parties. You will be able to make personal connections with clients and staff while also giving them something unique that they will appreciate and use. Contact Flicker Promotions today to ignite your brand!

Every Party Service in One Spot!

If you are looking for a space to host your holiday party, reach out to Matthew Rogge, owner and director of Talon Room (talonroom.com). Talon Room has a variety of price ranges to fit any budget and event, and they offer several services to help make sure your holiday party is a success.

“I always tell people, we set it up, you make it a party!” Matthew said. “We do in-house and off-site catering with a range of menu options to meet any level of party. From event setup to full-service bar, we can meet all your event needs while exceeding expectations. As an owner myself, I get the need to go above and beyond to show your employees how much they mean to you and the company, and a holiday celebration is a great opportunity to do just that.”

The Talon Room is conveniently located downtown and can accommodate as many as 250 people for stand-up or sit-down events. Services that Talon Room can provide for your event include decorations, tables, and chairs; catering, whether the party is held at Talon Room or at another location of your choosing; bar service; event space from as early as 8 a.m. to as late as midnight; setup and teardown; and cleaning. Pricing for events varies depending on what services are included, the time of week it is being held, and the amount of people attending.

Take a Sleigh Ride, Lincoln-Style

An alternative to hosting a holiday party at a venue is by renting a party bus from Tailored Dreams Party Buses (tailoreddreamslimousines.com). Tailored Dreams is Lincoln’s premier party-bus company, known for their friendly drivers and for creating an experience tailored to your particular group. Just reserve your bus ahead of time, tell your chauffeur where you want to go when you arrive for your party, and they’ll get you there and back safely. Party buses offer bumping Bluetooth sound systems, so you can even blast your favorite holiday jingles.

“Tailored Dreams started in March of 2012 with one limo that my husband, Tyler, and I parked in our driveway,” said Owner DeeDee Loomis. “Now our fleet consists of six party buses—including the only Pink Party Bus around! The biggest bus can fit up to 45 people, so you can bring along your family and/or closest friends, employees, and clients to celebrate the holidays. We recommend booking much sooner than later, as we are already filling up the 2022 calendar. Contact us today to celebrate in style!”

Events for Everyone

James Arthur Vineyards (JAV, jamesarthurvineyards.com) has great options for you to enjoy time with family, friends, employees, or clients, even before Santa comes to town. Throughout October, they are offering ghost tours every Friday night from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, October 23, is their annual World Famous Murder Mystery Dinner, allowing guests to become Sherlock Holmes for an evening and attempt to solve a “whodunit” during a night of fine dining, wine, and murder. Can’t make it that weekend? Come back the following Saturday on October 30 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. for a Halloween Murder Mystery at Billy’s Restaurant.

In November, JAV begins to offer more Christmas-themed events, such as Paint a Bottle for the Holidays. On Friday, November 12, you can join JAV and Urban Legends for a fun, holiday-themed night of art-making while sipping your favorite JAV wines! Appetizers will be included and you will be able to take home your new creation. Friday, November 19, is another important date to keep in your calendar: it’s the JAV Holiday Wine Release.

JAV’s Christmas wines, SleighBell Blush and Santa’s Secret, will go on sale at 10 a.m. They will be celebrating their release with free live music by Doug and Ellen Dexter from 5 to 8 p.m. The following week, they are celebrating White Friday – the wine alternative to Black Friday! On November 26, JAV will have white wine specials all throughout the day, no reservations needed. If you are looking for a great gift for the holidays, opt for a delicious local wine and take advantage of this fabulous sale.

JAV will kick off the biggest holiday month of the year with a weekend Holiday Cabaret. On December 3 and 4, vocalists Judy Anderson and David Claus will perform holiday favorites and Broadway show tunes from 7 to 9 p.m. The Cabaret will continue on December 5 as a matinee from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, December 11, is another opportunity to dig out your magnifying glass and try your hand at a December Murder Mystery at Billy’s Restaurant. Finally, on December 12 and 19, JAV will spread holiday cheer with their Holiday Music Series from 2 to 5 p.m.

Some events require tickets, so check online for release dates and prices. There are even more seasonal events JAV is hosting, so make sure to also visit the calendar on their website to check out the other Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas-themed happenings they are excited to share with you!

Celebrate – All Year Long!

Imagine if you never had to take down your Christmas lights, and you could leave them up year-round, changing the colors to reflect different monthly seasons and celebrations. It’s possible! Halo Custom Lighting (halocustomlighting.com) offers a permanent solution to all of your outdoor lighting needs. With this option, you can experience worry-free, hassle-free outdoor holiday, game day, and special occasion lighting year-round.

“They are maintenance-free and low-profile with a discreet design, and can be controlled through a free mobile app and connect via WiFi/Bluetooth,” said Jen Keller with Halo. “Choose from 4,228,250,625 different color options, including warm white or cool white. You can even control each individual bulb, which allows for a complete customization for everyday accent lighting.”

These lights are waterproof, climate-tested, and are rated to last 55,000 hours. Contact Halo Custom Lighting today to light up your home for the holidays and never hang lights again!

Throw Together, Grow Together

Axe throwing is the newest and hottest form of active entertainment, so give your staff a holiday event to remember by treating them to a night out at Tomahawks Axe Throwing (tomahawkslnk.com)! Their friendly staff, which includes Co-Owners Shad Kearns, Shane Kearns, and Tommy Winn, will help you plan an awesome holiday party at their venue, conveniently located in the Haymarket. Tomahawks can hold up to 120 people, and their bar offers a variety of beers, ciders, and seltzers. If you have a favorite food to serve to your clients and employees, feel free to cater in a hot meal at no additional cost.

“For corporate events, companies have the luxury of having the entire building and throwing lanes to themselves,” explained Shane.

When participating in the axe throwing, teams will take turns lobbing axes at wooden targets and counting up points to see who can score the most bulls-eyes. There’s no experience needed! An instructor will be with you at all times, available to show you how to safely throw an axe and compete against each other. As the Tomahawks team says, teams that throw together grow together!

If you are giving the gift of a gift card this year, keep Tomahawks in mind. They are a great option for date nights or outings with family and friends. A gift card is a good way to encourage someone to try something new, and they just might find their new favorite hobby in the process!

During the season of giving, remember to give back to the community, too, by supporting local businesses. Whether you are joining in on fun seasonal festivities or doing some holiday gift shopping, your support makes a difference!