Housewarming Party Menu Ideas

After you have executed a successful move it may take a little time to get 100% settled in but there is no reason why you can’t invite some friends and family over for a visit to show off your new abode. When selecting a party food menu there are a few things to take into consideration such as: the overall tastes/likes/dislikes of your guests, if you want to host a sit-down dinner or a mix-and-mingle type of party, your budget and of course how much time you want to devote to preparing for the masses.

The Menu

Appetizers and finger foods can be the main course or they can be the first course to a sit-down dinner. Once you decide the style and theme of event you want to select a variety options to serve. If you decide to solely serve appetizers and finger foods consider choosing anywhere from 5-8 small items to serve up so your guests do not feel limited.

Think of Your Guests Needs

Considering dietary preferences when planning your menu will ensure everything runs smoothly the day of your party. Make sure to offer at least two vegetarian options and take into consideration if there are any known food allergies of your guests. Nuts and sesame seeds are very common (and extremely lethal) food allergies so keep clear of these items when possible.

Wine & Cheese

Are you already overwhelmed with the menu planning? An easy and popular choice for any party is a wine and cheese party. Compliment the cheese, crackers and breads with some fruit, vegetables and spreads. Select a couple bottles of red wine, white wine and even mix in some champagne or mixed cocktails to toast to the new digs.

Food & Beverage Options

Food options are endless and are completely dependent on your budget, the amount of you time you want to devote to cooking and of course your cooking skill level. Some appetizer crowd pleasers such as flatbreads or focaccia bread can be made a variety of different ways and can be easily cut into small slices. Prosciutto wrapped asparagus; stuffed mushrooms; shrimp cocktail and a variety of dips and salsas are all easy options and will satisfy your foodie friends as well as your down-home eaters. If you want a more casual spread but want to provide more than just appetizers and finger foods break out the BBQ and throw on some meat, fish or veggie burgers. Compliment the main course with grilled corn on the cob or grilled fruit such as pineapple or peaches. Have a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, water, wine, beer and or mixed drinks and ice will ensure that your guests are all taken care of accordingly. If you are working on a tighter budget don’t be afraid to ask your guests to bring something when you send out the invites. Your friends and family will most likely be happy to bring an appetizer of choice or their favorite beverage thus helping add to the mix of the menu. Remember whatever menu you decide on for your event keep in mind the tastes of your guests and how much actual time you want to spend during the actual party cooking; you want to enjoy the time with your friends and family and not be preoccupied with cooking the entire time!

REPUBLIC MOVING AND STORAGE PURCHASES GLOBAL MOVING SYSTEMS

Republic Moving and Storage, one of the fastest growing Domestic and International relocation companies in the United States, has purchased the assets of Global Moving Systems located in San Diego, Ca.

Bill Lovejoy, President of Republic Moving and Storage, states that Republic’s strategy will be to relocate the newly acquired business to a new location at 42374 Avenida Alvarado Suite B, Temecula, Ca. 92590. This facility will service both military and private party re-locations.

Republic Moving and Storage was purchased in May of 2008 by Bill Lovejoy and was named 2010 AMSA (American Moving and Storage Association) Agent of Year for Service Excellence. Mr. Lovejoy attributes Republic’s success to their excellent Service Providers and Office Team dedicated to being the absolute best in the industry!

Moving with Four Legged Family Members

When moving with four-legged family members here are some of Republic Moving & Storage’s tips that will make your move into the new home an easy and safe transition for all.

1. Paperwork

If you are embarking on a long-distance move it is recommended that you have copies of all of your animal’s vet records and latest vaccinations. Having readily available documents that aren’t packed away will make it easy for you provide the new veterinarian the documentation and safeguard you if for some reason need the records during the course of your travels.

2. Update IDs

Update your pet’s identification tags with the new home information as well as your cell phone number in case you get separated from your pet during the move. If your animal is microchipped make sure that the company has the updated information on file as well.

3. Buckle Up!

Investing in a safe carrier and/or pet restraint device is highly recommended to keep yourself and your animal safe. Pets can get jittery or become a distraction so keep them safeguarded. If you are moving with cats it is imperative that you have a carrier to avoid them trying to curl up by your feet or crawl around the car. For your safety and your pet’s safety make sure all animals are buckled up or in safe carriers.

4. Light Diets

Some animals can be prone to motion sickness in the car or may become uneasy due to all the added commotion. Keep their diets to a minimum when moving but remember to keep them hydrated with a with a fresh, clean water bowl.

5. Moving Day

The day of the move make sure that animals are placed securely in a room that has already been moved so they are not underfoot. If possible ask a trusted neighbor or friend to watch them when the actual move is occurring. Animals can become jittery and uneasy when they see their house being loaded up and may be more prone to get out so keep a close eye on their behavior and make sure that they have a favorite blanket or toy to make them feel secure.

6. Car Moves

It should go without saying that you should never put an animal in a moving truck. Your four-legged family members should be moved in your car or another family member’s car to keep them safe.

7. Plan for Stops Along the Way

Many dogs will just curl up and sleep when in the car but remember on long distance moves to plan to stop every few hours to let your pooch stretch it’s legs and have a bathroom break.

8. Know the Rules

Some states have regulations about transporting animals across the state line such as Hawaii that requires a 6 month quarantine. Different areas may require different neighborhood licenses so make sure to check with your state, local and neighborhood regulations before you set off on your move.

9. Pet Photos

The last thing that we ever want to hear is that you have a problem when moving with your pets. In case of an unfortunate event of being separated from your pet have on hand recent photos of your pet in case it gets lost when you are traveling.

10: Pet Suitcase

Just like you packed a moving bag of neccesities plan to pack one for your animal too. A favorite toy and blanket, leash, plastic bags for bathroom breaks, food and water, pet dishes and any necessary medicine and documentation should be placed all in one bag or suitcase for your furry family member.

11. Lots of Love

Just like anyone else that is going through a move pets need constant reassurance. Make sure to give your pets lots of reassurance, love and belly rubs to make them feel comfortable and at ease through the entire move and when they eventually get settled into their new home.

Have you moved with a pet before? What pet tips helped you make it a successful move?

Welcome to the Neighborhood Cocktail Party!

You just completed a successful move and are unpacked and settled into your new home. What’s the next step? Getting to know your neighbors! Putting together a neighborhood party is a great way to introduce yourself and learn more about your new neighborhood. What’s one of the most important ingredients in throwing a housewarming party? Cocktails! While the old standbys of wine and beer are great choices… if you really want to get the party started and wow your new neighbors serve them up some of these New Neighbor Libations:

Sunny Delight!

For summer get-togethers what better way to show them the sunny side of life than with a refreshing summer drink? This refreshing cocktail is sure to please your guests:

1 shot triple sec

3 shots lemon vodka

1 shot club soda

1 lemon

Fill with Sunny Delight® orange juice

Using a jar or cannery style mason jar is a fun way to style this drink. First pour the vodka and the triple sec together. Squeeze the lemon lightly, and place it on the rim. Fill the glass with sunny delight, then add a shot of club soda. Serve as a shot or over ice.

Tokyo Tea

Whether you are going with a themed party or just a quaint get-together show your new neighbors your international mixologist side with this twist on a Long Island Iced Tea.

1/2 oz vodka

1/2 oz rum

1/2 oz gin

1/2 oz tequila

1/2 oz triple sec

1 oz Midori® melon liqueur

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Shake, strain into a small highball glass filled with ice, and serve.

Sidecar

Serving up drinks to a more sophisticated crowd? This drink was named after a motorcycle sidecar in Paris during World War I and was a drink that was designed after the people that lived the fabulous life.

¾ oz Cointreau

1 ¾ Cognac

¼ lemon juice

Add all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake, strain into martini glass and serve

Italian Apple Martini

The Apple Martini was born in the none other than the Big Apple, New York City. This flirty drink will give you a slice of the big city life at your neighborhood party.

3/4 oz Amaretto Di Saronno® liqueur

1 1/2 oz DeKuyper® Sour Apple Pucker schnapps

3/4 oz Stoli® Vanil vodka

1 splash Rose’s® lime juice

1 splash cranberry juice

Pour all into iced shaker tin, shake until tin is cold to the touch and strain into martini glass. Garnish with lime wheel, and serve.

As always Republic Moving & Storage is here for all of your moving needs. Remember to celebrate your successful move and new neighborhood responsibly! Happy Moving!

Packing Check Off List

Getting ready for your next move can be daunting. Make sure that you have everything you need with this handy Republic Moving & Storage check off list and get on track for a successful move!

Packing Supplies

Boxes: Durable cardboard boxes of all different sizes: Don’t forget dish barrels and specialty wardrobe boxes. Although we always encourage getting your quality boxes and supplies from an expert moving company, getting used, sturdy boxes from liquor stores or grocery stores can help save you money.

Packing Materials: Old newspapers, biodegradable peanuts and/or bubble wrap. Keep a couple of bath towels out to use to fill in extra space around fragile items.

Markers: Thick, black Sharpie markers work the best. Buy a pack of at least three so you have them for different rooms.

Pad of paper and pen: (for your box-by-box inventory list)

Packing Tape: both for sealing boxes and affixing hardware to disassembled furniture

Plastic Baggies: Utilize both quart and gallon sized baggies that zip closed. Collect screws and small parts that go with furniture, place these items in a plastic bag then tape it onto the furniture. Baggies should also be used for items such as cleaners or shampoos that may leak in the moving process.

Heavy-duty garbage bags: use garbage bags for donations, garbage, and for moving clothing.

Plastic Wrap: wrapping furniture, mirrors and artwork in plastic wrap is a great way to keep you valuables from being nicked or scratched.

Tools: there are a lot of things that need to be taken apart and put back together during a move. Make sure you have a hammer, screwdriver (flat-head and Phillips), Drill (make sure it is charged!), Allen wrench, regular wrenches, scissors, and box cutter.

Moving may seem to be an overwhelming process but it doesn’t have to be. Being prepared and relying on the experts to help you through the move will be rewarding and most importantly allow you to focus on enjoying your next home adventure.

Happy Moving!

Everything To Remember About Changing Your Address–From A-Z

There is a lot to remember when moving. To avoid overlooking any address change notifications to your friends, family or businesses here is Republic Moving & Storage’s Changing Your Address Check Off List. Have any to add? Let us know and we will add it to our list!

Accountant/tax preparer
Alumni associations
Attorneys
Banks (auto loans, checking accounts, credit cards, home equity, IRA’s, mortgage, safe deposit box, savings account)
Broker
Business cards (order new ones if necessary)
Cell phone provider
Child care/ daycare
Chiropractor
Courts, especially for traffic tickets or local disputes
Credit bureaus
Credit card issuers
Dentist
Department of Motor Vehicles
Doctor
Dry cleaning pick-up and/or delivery
Family members and friends
Health clubs
House cleaning service
House of worship
Insurance providers (auto, health, life, other vehicles);
IRS (form 8822)
Lawn care
Luggage tags (replace existing ones)
Magazine subscriptions
New employer
Newspaper subscriptions
Old employer
Parent-teacher association
Passport
Pet sitter/ dog walker/ pet day care
Pharmacy
Post office
Retirement plan holders
Return address labels (order new ones)
Schools
Social Security Administration
Veterinarian (get vet records and recommendations if moving out of area)
Water delivery services

From all of us at Republic Moving and Storage we wish you the happiest of moves!

How to Throw a Housewarming Party

Once you are all settled into your new home what better way to celebrate the move than having a housewarming party? Where do you start? These ideas will help you throw a memorable housewarming party.

Save the Date

You most likely didn’t rush into moving into a new place so don’t rush into throwing your housewarming party. A successful move is one that is carefully scheduled and planned out; celebrating the new house should be no different. Plan the event and choose a date that will allow you time to move in without rushing but be careful to not push it out so far out that too much time passes.

Make a Plan

Themed parties can be fun or a simple get-together with a few family members and friends may be more your style. Whether you are looking to invite a few select people over or the masses think about the theme ahead of time so you can start putting together a plan. Summer BBQ, Wine Party, Game Night or something seasonal are few options to choose from. Whichever you decide choose something that both you and your guests will enjoy.

Guest List

Whether you are on a conservative budget or ready to blow out a big bash remember that what truly makes a house a home is surrounding yourself with the family and friends in your life who matter the most. Republic Moving and Storage recommends using your housewarming party as an chance to invite your closest friends and family as well as using it as an opportunity to meet your new neighbors.

Invitations

There are plenty of ways to invite the troops to your housewarming party and they don’t have to cost you your pocket book. Create a free Evite, pick up the phone or break out the construction paper and make some homemade invitations. For the new neighbor’s invitations personally hand delivering the invitations is also a great way to introduce yourself to the neighborhood and start getting to know your new neighbors ahead of time. Remember that there is nothing worse than an invitation that doesn’t cover all the pertinent information. When constructing your invitations don’t forget to include all necessary information: Who, What, Where, Why, RSVP information and also detail if you need guest to bring anything such a beverage or appetizer to contribute.

Party Time

On the date of your housewarming party remember the most important ingredient when hosting a party…enjoy yourself! Your house may not be exactly put together how you want it but your guests will understand. Remember that the single most important part of making a house a home is being able to enjoy it with your family and friends. So kick up your feet, relax and enjoy your place with the ones you love.

Happy Housewarming!

Housewarming Gift Ideas

Know someone that just moved into a new place? Remember to never show up to your friends and families new digs empty handed! No matter what budget you are working with here are some of Republic Moving and Storage’s great housewarming gifts or day-of-the-move perks that will be sure to be hit.

Tasty Treats: A simple bottle of wine, spirits or homemade desserts are all great gifts for a housewarming party or even the day of the move…best part is that you can participate in the enjoyment! If bringing food or drink the day of the move make sure to take in account that utensils and tableware may not be easily accessible. Want to add even more special touches to your special treats? Wine openers, BBQ tools or even serving platters are great additions to any home culinary gift.

Plants & Flowers: A simple plant or a bouquet of flowers are always well received by hostesses and are great additions to any new home. Picking smaller potted plants such as jade or decorative pots with herbs will ensure that the recipient will be able to find the perfect place for the addition. If you are looking for a more personalized touch Feng Shui tradition states that three stalks of bamboo with a red ribbon are said to bring good luck to any home…it’s a win-win!

Personalized Items: What makes a home a home are all the extra touches so why not give a personalized gift that speaks from the heart? Gifts such as personalized doormats, coffee mugs, candles and monogrammed towels, cutting boards or even a simple key holder are more economical than you think and will be used and appreciated for years to come.

For the Person that Has it All: If you are having a hard time thinking of that perfect gift what recently moved person wouldn’t love a project gift card? Gift cards to places such as Home Depot, Lowes and Target are great ways for the recipients to get what they want and when they want it. If giving a gift card is not personal enough for your taste consider making your own Do-It-Yourself Home Bucket for potential home projects.

What are your favorite housewarming gifts to give and receive?

Cleaning + Moving

In an ideal world when you move into your new home the previous owners have been kind enough to leave everything in the place sparkling clean; unfortunately this is not always the case. The good news is that house cleaning in your new home will be a piece of cake compared to the old place where you have furniture and items to move yet. Follow these Republic Moving & Storage’s moving cleaning tips and get your new place sparkling and ready for move in:

How to Clean Your New House

The most dreaded room in the house seems to be the kitchen so why not get this room out of the way first? Between the stove, refrigerator and all the nooks and crannies this room sometimes need a little bit more cleaning love. After you are done with the kitchen clean one room at a time and finish each room of with the cleaning of the floors. If you are looking to save money and be environmentally conscious consider cleaning with the King and Queen of Cleaning House: Vinegar and Baking Soda. If you are going to use cleaners that contain chemicals make sure that there is plenty of ventilation and that you don’t overuse these products!

Quick tips to get you on track to a spic-and-span house:

Kitchen

Oven: Remove oven racks and place them in the sink filled with soapy water. If you’re using an oven cleaner, spray it first and let it sit while you clean the rest of the kitchen. Follow the directions accordingly and scrub the oven down well when ready. It is safe to clean the racks with steel wool. You can also use a paste of baking soda and vinegar to get your oven clean without using chemicals.

Sink: It is safe to use steel wool on stubborn stains in a stainless steel sink, or use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. After you’ve removed stains, an equal part solution of water and lemon juice will really bring out the sink’s shine.

Cabinets: Dust and wipe down cabinets with a soft cloth all surfaces, inside and out. Don’t forget the tops of cabinet doors!

Countertops: Use a solution of 1 part water and 1 part vinegar to get counter tops (except marble) squeaky clean.

Refrigerator: Pull the refrigerator away from the wall and clean out behind it with a broom and/vacuum. Pull out all removable racks and drawers and place in warm soapy water. Clean the refrigerator inside and out: top, back and sides. Scrub down drawers, rinse thoroughly, dry and replace all racks and drawers.

Bathroom

A number of chemical cleaners are available to clean your bathroom but are certainly not good for you or the environment. Using a paste of baking soda and vinegar also works amazing and even dissolves soap scum and can be used on both the tub and sink. To clean glass shower doors use 1 part vinegar and 1 part water in a spray bottle. Use undiluted vinegar in the toilet and scrub with a scrub brush.

Bedrooms and Family Areas

These rooms are usually easier to clean comparatively to the bathroom and kitchen areas. Focus on walls, closet shelves, built in book cases and corners in each of these rooms. Remember to finish off each room with the cleaning of the floors.

Floors

Consider investing in, renting, purchasing a steam cleaner or hiring a professional to steam clean for you to get out any tough stains and/or odors. There is also equipment and professionals that can be rented or hired to steam clean your sealed hardwood floors. If you just want to mop down the wood floors yourself Murphy’s Oil Soap is a great product to get the job done. Remember to do the floors only after you have done the cleaning in each room to save on having to clean them more than once.

Walls

When is the last time you wiped down your walls? Unless you have kids washing down the walls is not always at the top of list for cleaning projects. Wash walls with a solution of water and vinegar, which is safe on most surfaces. Pay close attention to corners and higher trafficked areas/touched areas (about waist level). Remove tough stains or crayon marks with a Magic Eraser-type product.

Have any cleaning or moving tips you would like to add? Let us know…we would love to add them to the list!

Happy Moving!

Republic of San Diego Prepares for the Busiest Moving Season

Republic of San Diego has been getting prepared for the moving industries busiest season of the year. Just by the increase in business we have had in the last month, we’ve needed to add twice as much memory to our servers and computers. There has been an increase in productivity by using dual monitors at every desk. We felt that it is important to stay on top of our technology and to keep everything moving as smooth as possible. Also by doing all of these updates it allows us to have a quicker response to our customers’ needs and wants. Keep us in mind when looking for help with your next move or storage needs. Our team strives to make your moving experience the best you’ve ever had.

Owners of San Diego Moving Company Turn Top Van Lines in United States

In May of 2008, Bill and Carol Lovejoy purchased the assets of the struggling Republic Van Lines of San Diego. The company had little or no business, but had been in San Diego since 1952 and enjoyed a distinguished history.

The new Republic Moving and Storage had a vision that all of the service providers would be trained to care more about customer satisfaction than company profit. Republic spends much time and energy in training their service providers to be excellent in their work. Every Driver, Packer, and helper is required to be AMSA certified as a CPL (Certified Packer Loader) before they can work for San Diego Movers. Although the company has consistent, detailed training that covers the basics or furniture handling, a lot of time is invested in teaching the soft skills of customer communications. During these training meetings, the crew leaders practice skills such as “introducing themselves and their team to the customers” and “how to handle negative situations with customers” in front of the entire service provider group.

This training and role playing has turned out to be “magical” The service providers have become more comfortable in interacting with customers. It has been great to see these folks grow in confidence and stature. They see themselves as true “professionals” and are treated that way by Republic’s staff and more importantly, by their customers.

San Diego Moving Company expects a great deal from their service providers and works very hard to show their appreciation. There are monthly awards, annual awards, trophies, and a whole lot of praise. The sales team and staff, occasionally show up at 5:00 am to cook a wonderful bacon and egg breakfast to show their appreciation for the Service Providers hard work.

The office and sales folks are equally exceptional! Republic has a seasoned team of managers who are relentless in their pursuit of excellence. The rest of the team works for the common goal of being the best service provider we can be for our customers, carriers, and TSP’s. The atmosphere in the office is very light hearted, so don’t be surprised if the phone is answered “it’s a Groovy day at Republic”.

In September 2010, after outgrowing their first warehouse, Republic moved into their current 55,000 sq ft location complete with full training facility, laundry room, shower, and drivers lounge for their service providers. Operating on the belief that “We’re only as good as the crew that arrives at the front door”, Republic is a company that has truly been blessed with wonderful men and women doing a great job for our customers.

Republic Moving & Storage recognizes that there are hundreds of fantastic movers across this great country, and is humbled to have been Chosen AMSA’s 2010 Agent of the year for Service Excellence.

In Remarkable Turnaround, San Diego’s Republic Moving & Storage Wins Top Industry Association Award from AMSA

San Diego, CA – February 14, 2011 – Republic Moving & Storage, a San Diego County business for nearly 60 years, has received the 2010 Moving and Storage Agent of the Year Service Excellence Award, the top honor of the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA). It’s a remarkable turnaround for Republic, an agent of North American Van Lines.

This honor is a testament to the men and women who work very hard to please our customers.,” said Republic president/owner Bill Lovejoy. “Less than three years ago, my wife Carol and I purchased Republic with our life savings from the verge of Bankruptcy; we had one driver, and were barely doing one move a day.”

Today, he said, Republic’s sales volume is over $5 million and has an average of 30 to 40 moves per day. The business specializes in domestic and international relocations for both individuals and military customers. They specialize in office and industrial moving as well.

Republic, which has 70 office employees and service providers, traces its history in Southern California to 1952 and has remained an independent company. The firm, nominated by North American Van Lines, received its national trade association’s top honor for customer surveys and van line experiences which were reviewed by AMSA, as well as innovation and efforts to upgrade and modernize to best industry practices.

Lovejoy traces winning the top AMSA award to the wonderful men and woman that serve our customers at a very high level daily. Their smiling faces and dedication to excellence make the company what it is today.

The office staff is equally terrific. They watch over each move to ensure its success and work hard to set high standards for Republic.

About Republic Moving & Storage:
For nearly 60 years, this family-owned and operated moving business has handled all relocation needs to and from San Diego County. Republic’s special services include warehousing and distribution, and the moving service is approved for both domestic and international military relocations.

Contact: Bill Lovejoy
Website: http://www.Republicmoving.com
Phone: 619-600-0559

San Diego Moving Company First to Participate in Friends of Heroes Program

Republic Moving and Storage a San Diego based moving company, is proud to become one of the first companies in San Diego to participate in the Friends of Heroes program. The program is part of the Homes for Heroes Real Estate Savings initiative which expanded last December to include San Diego as the first location in Southern California. The Friends of Heroes program was designed to offer substantial discounts to the heroes that serve our nation and the local heroes who inspire and protect our community.

Chula Vista, CA (PRWEB) February 5, 2011

As a part of the Homes for Heroes program, local teachers, military personnel, police officers and firefighters they will receive a 25% savings on their closings costs and be eligible for discounted lending fees. It was important to extend this financial assistance even further, which is why the Friends of Heroes program offers additional discounts for home related services and products. The Foundation was created by Ruth Johnson of Minnesota in response to the 9/11 attacks as a way of saying “Thank you” to the men and women who have given so much to our country.

Republic Moving & Storage, a San Diego moving company is thrilled to take part in a program that gives back so much to the community. We are proud to support our local Heroes and as a way of showing our thanks, we would like to offer 10% off of our moving and storage services to anyone who is a part of the Homes for Heroes program. We understand how difficult times are and especially how costly it can be to purchase and maintain a home.

Owner and President of Republic, Bill Lovejoy states, “When my wife Carol and I purchased Republic Moving and Storage in 2008, we wanted to be a family business that focused on providing the highest quality moving services in the greater San Diego area. Our business has been blessed and it’s our desire to give back to programs that would assist the community.”

Republic Moving and Storage was purchased in May of 2008 by Bill Lovejoy a 30 year veteran of the moving and storage industry. His mission was to build a strong, customer service oriented company capable of handling a large volume of moves while still maintaining its reputation as a quality company. The headquarters for Republic feature a 55,000 square foot military approved storage facilities with 24/7 video surveillance. The service crews are given a thorough background check and obtain all relevant certifications before they start working.

Republic Moving and Storage is proud, after much hard work to be retaining and attracting market share in the San Diego area. In spite of a faltering economy, and with a humble start, Republic Moving & Storage has increased their revenues to almost $5 million annually in their first three years in business.