Inflatable trampolines can be fun and useful -- imagine how much fun your guests will have at your next party with an inflatable trampoline. They can be rented easily, are quick to set up and take down, but best of all they are super fun for all. Imagine for a moment being able to play like a kid again!

Why Rent an Inflatable Trampoline?

Renting an inflatable trampoline is easy, and it can provide hours of entertainment at your next event. I know you have seen them, just think of your last major picnic or harvest festival. Yup, there was one there, usually filled with kids, sometimes with balls or balloons for added pleasure. Just think, neighborhood parties, special events like graduations or other celebrations are great times spent with the kids or adults all burning off the extra cake or punch energy, and you can sit back and relax.

Where to Rent An Inflatable Trampoline

Party rental stores and sports stores are the obvious first stop for your rental. They supply them to dozens of birthday parties and company picnics every week and will have the most information and best staff to help you in setting up your party rental. The key is to make sure you give yourself and the store you're renting from enough time, so as you will have it on the day it is needed. Don't wait until the last second, or you might not find what you're looking for.

How to Set Up An Inflatable Trampoline

First, find a level flat spot preferably on smooth grass. Remember, do not set up the trampoline on cement. Doing so will simply increase the risk of injury, and that will ensure a fun filled day ends the wrong way. Next, lay it out flat and be sure to smooth out the top part.

Second, most come with a pump or air fill, be sure to make sure of this when renting one. Hook this pump up and plug it in. It is that easy. Now continue to set up your party, the inflatable trampoline will be ready in about 3 hours, sometimes less. It might be a good idea to set it up the night before. To take it down, just reverse this process, fold it up neatly for the next person, and put it back in its case. That's it, but be sure to have lots of fun.

Setting up party favors and the like is akin to making sure everyone has a good time, and adding an inflatable trampoline is a really good way to see that everyone has a good time. So long as you're careful and plan ahead, you and your kids will have a great time.

Nashville is the home of more than just country music and Opry Mills Shopping Mall, it is also the home of the best party rentals and inflatable jumpers as well. What are party rentals and inflatable jumpers?

Well, the names pretty much stay true to the definitions. When having a party, whether you have children or it's just the adults, renting "inflatables", "jumpers" and "inflatable jumpers" is the way to go in terms of smuggling and infusing 100% pure fun into the atmosphere and equation.

In other words, party rentals=special occasion fun, for any occasion and more importantly, all occasions!

Some people think that party rentals and inflatable jumpers, even in the fair weather city of Nashville, Tennessee, are only for summer, spring and fall. Well, actually winter is the time when more and more Nashvillians are going indoors to auditoriums to experience the joy of jumpers and instant excitement of inflatables. Not every Nashville party rentals jumper inflatables company is the one to choose.

In fact, according to the most recent research on the subject, statistical data has produced some very important questions that need to be asked and then answered by the nashville party rentals and inflatables company that you choose to ensure that you have chosen the very best.

For the sake of just giving the facts, below is listed the top 5 questions that you need to consider before joining in the fun and the answers following them:

1.What type of events do they host?

The best Nashville party inflatables co. must provide fun for just about any event such as birthday parties, corporate parties, fundraisers, church socials, school carnivals, or any other special event.

2.Can they set up on concrete?

In most cases, yes. Usually when people ask this question they are referring to setting up in their driveways. The only requirement is that the best Nashville party rentals / inflatables co. have to be able to stake the bouncer to the ground to keep it from moving or blowing over.

3.What is the age recommendation?

The best Nashville inflatables company will always tell you on their website that Bouncers are recommended for children ages 2-14.

4.Are the bouncers safe?

The bouncers are very kid safe. They are enclosed, except for the entrances which have a safety net, so kids will not fall out or get hurt.

5.What are bouncers made of?

The bouncers are made of commercial quality, 18-ounce, heavy-duty, fire resistant vinyl which is safe and durable

The majority of the suppliers here are the actual manufacturer for the products they offer so you can get some really good prices. Suppliers were invited by the auto-manufacturers to be directly involved in research and development, not only in car/parts design, but also in manufacturing processes at the auto-manufacturer and the supplier. In order to obtain a fountain you can try Party Rental firms who might be selling off used ones, try a manufacturer, try local party good suppliers and also of course surf the internet in search of the bargain you really want when you go to buy a chocolate fountain. And does the manufacturer have a system in place to verify that the ingredients used are what their suppliers claim.

Collaborative B2B e-commerce requires the exchange of data and business processes between multiple business partners such as suppliers, traders, buyers and distributors necessitating a large complex infrastructure that may cost between $30,000 to a few million dollars. Add in a competitive market with multiple suppliers and conservative buyers in the UK. For example, if you choose to offer people something based on the TV show "Crystal Maze", the suppliers will bring in multiple copies of each of the challenges (and maybe even the crystal dome itself) and effectively run multiple concurrent smaller events.

Imagine how much more effective the solution can be for complex integration of multiple suppliers with diverse geographic locations and reduced transfer of inventory. Here are some ways to negotiate successfully with your suppliers. The legend that "You never get fired for buying IBM" was one of the bits of marketing genius that came out of this and successfully kept other suppliers with better, more innovative and cheaper products out of their market for a long time. Here are the steps you must take in order to import products successfully: Locate several suppliers either through online resources or by contacting Trade Commissions of respective countries.

Early-morning workouts notwithstanding, faded makeup and unkempt hair are usually more closely associated with sluggishness than sex appeal. But at the spring 2006 shows in New York, Milan, and Paris, underdone beauty made a memorable appearance on virtually every runway. The effect: a confident, self-assured woman whose seeming spontaneity only adds to her allure. Fortunately, this season’s take on au natural isn’t for flawlessly skinned supermodels only; the following ten trends are sprinkled with enough flattering twists that any woman can pull them off with aplomb.

In the Nude

Underscoring fashion’s return to minimalism, spring makeup was decidedly more discreet than any we’d seen for seasons. “The goal is to create an ‘is she or isn’t she?’ look,” says makeup artist Viviane Hidalgo of Miami’s Primal Studio. “For most women, that means using a concealer, a primer, and a moisturizer mixed with foundation to achieve good coverage.” In real life, a look completely devoid of color can run the risk of looking deadly, so Hidalgo urges women to use a subtle shade to emphasize their best feature. “If you’ve got great eyes, for example, add a little definition in the corner,” she suggests.

On the Runway: At Chloé, models wore only a smidge of liner along the top lash line; at Balenciaga, freshly scrubbed faces were enhanced with hints of carefully chosen color; and at BCBG Max Azria and Christian Dior, makeup was barely there at all.

Best Bets: Maybelline New York Revitalizing Concealer, Laura Mercier Oil-Free Foundation, Olay Complete Moisturizer, M.A.C. Prep + Prime Skin

Rope Trick

Each season seems to spawn a signature hairstyle, and for spring, braids were the models’ crowning glory. If you haven’t worn them since the sixth grade, however, you may want to look before you leap. “It’s a very young look,” says Kim Lépine of the Lépine New York salon. “If you’re young and funky, you should do them everywhere, allover,” she recommends. For older or more sophisticated ladies, Lépine suggests “a single braid toward the back of the head as an elegant detail for a bun or an updo.”

On the Runway: Funky cornrows ruled the L.A.M.B. runways; at Rochas, hair was plaited into skinny, princess-worthy halos; Viktor & Rolf’s stylists opted for ropey, oversize versions; and at Calvin Klein, strands were swept into a single loose, low-maintenance braid.

Best Bets: Goody Exquisite Rat Tail Comb, Mason-Pearson Brush, Biosilk Silk Therapy, Sebastian Shaper Hairspray

Hot Lips

In a season of understatement, some makeup artists relied on ruby lips to add a dose of drama—a classic, glamorous look that makeup artist Troy Surratt loves. “A bold, sexy red lip is especially perfect for winter,” he maintains. What’s more, “you don’t need to be scared of it. If you’re using a red lip, just remember to play down the rest of your face.”

On the Runway: Lips were a matte cherry at Alessandro Dell’Acqua, a glossy rich scarlet at Costume National, and a warmer tomato shade at Emanuel Ungaro.

Best Bets: Maybelline New York Moisture Extreme in Royal Red, Chanel Le Crayon Gloss in Grenadine, Urban Decay Pleather Pencil in Kink, Nars Lipstick in Heat Wave

Heavy Metal

Sparkly shadows in shades of gold, silver, and bronze made a strong showing on virtually every runway. According to Surratt, “shimmer can play up anyone’s eyes, and golden shades tend to be the most flattering.” The key, he emphasizes, is dolling out the dazzle in small doses: “Be sure to keep the shadow on the lid, and use only a tiny bit to highlight your brow bone.”

On the Runway: At Alberta Ferretti, golden shadows highlighted the eyes’ inner corners, darkening to bronze at the browbone; Anna Sui used just a hint of sheen on the lids and lower lash lines; Chanel opted for a futuristic silvery shade; and John Galliano’s metallics (in keeping with the couture) took a Felliniesque turn.

Best Bets: Maybelline New York Roller Color in In-Line Ice, Bare Escentuals Foiling Glimmers, Girlactik Beauty Sparkle Eye Liner Set, Benefit Show Offs

Brown-Eyed Girl

Spring’s mink, sienna, and sable eye shadows proved that browns are anything but boring. “It’s a nice balance between nude and made-up, and there are a bazillion browns to choose from,” says Bobbe Joy of the Bobbe Joy Makeup Studio in Beverly Hills. “To amp up a neutral shadow, add a line of gold or iridescent shadow from the lashes to the crease, right down the center of the lid,” she says. “It’s still a natural look, but it really opens up the eye.”

On the Runway: At Andrew Gn, eyes were enhanced with a warm walnut; at Celine, makeup artists opted for an offbeat ochre shade; Moschino’s chocolate shadows were coated with glitter across the crease; and at Vera Wang, eyes were swept with a more unassuming ecru.

Best Bets: Cargo Eye Shadow in Cocoa Beach; Cover Girl Eye Enhancers in Mink; Too Faced Eyeshadow Duo in Full Frontal; and Afterglow Multitasking Eye Shadows in Champagne Shimmer, Dune, and Coco

Pretty Slick

Despite its gangster associations, slicked-back strands looked surprisingly fresh and pretty on the runways. In real life—without a team of stylists at your disposal—“the look is best suited to those with thin, fine, or straight hair,” says hairstylist Lindsay Rider of the Bang Salon in Washington, D.C. Assuming you have the appropriate hair type, start by coating freshly washed strands with a smoothing cream, then blow-dry and finish with a shine spray. To ensure an end result that’s sleek, not slimy, “use less product in the beginning,” Rider suggests; “you can always add more later on if you need to.”

On the Runway: Hair was swept into shiny ponys at Chloe and Prada; Narciso Rodriguez used glossy strands to create an ultramodern French twist; and Alexander McQueen split the difference, slicking back strands in front and leaving them loose in the back.

Best Bets: Tigi Bedhead After-Party Smoothing Cream, Frédéric Fekkai Glossing Cream, Redken Vinyl Glam 02 Mega Shine Spray, Citre Shine Mist Anti-Frizz Spray Laminator

Doll Face

Continuing a trend that began last fall, makeup artists relied on rosy blushes to give the models a fresh, pretty glow. For a convincing flush, rather than’80s-style racing streaks, selecting the right product is key. “You want to avoid pigments that are too heavy for your skin tone,” Hildago explains. “Creams and stains tend to work better on skin without enlarged pores, while powders tend to complement less-perfect complexions.” In either case, “you should use a round motion to get good blending, and remove any excess with a tissue,” she adds.

On the Runway: Carolina Herrera’s models got a healthy pale-pink flush, while Zac Posen’s and Anna Molinari’s were treated to a more intense rosy shade.

Best Bets: Chanel Joues Contraste Blush in Rose Bronze, Nars Orgasm Blush, Fresh Blush Powder in Charm School, Cargo Blush in Topeka

Smudge Report

Thin is eternally in on the catwalk, but at the spring shows, makeup artists eschewed skinny sweeps of liner in favor of thick, more imprecise spoltches. According to Hildago, blurring the lines beautifully is largely a matter of choosing the right the product. “To achieve a diffused look, use a soft kohl pencil to rim the eye,” she says. “Black can be very intense, so depending on your coloring, you may want to try a neutral brown or taupe instead.”

On the Runway: At Donna Karen, eyes were enhanced with a smudge of black liner on the inner corners and an abridged cat’s-eye on top; at Givenchy, the lines were thicker and more intense, continuing around the entire eye; and at Louis Vuitton, dark lines were seamlessly blended with progressively lighter shadows on the lids and brow bones.

Best Bets: Revlon Colorstay Eyeliner in Black, M.A.C. Eye Kohl Liner in Smolder, Benefit Bad Gal Liner, Estee Lauder Artist’s Eye Pencil in Softsmudge Black

Wet 'n' Mild

On many runways, makeup artists used lip glosses to give neutral palettes a dewy sheen. To give your gloss more staying power, “first prep your lips with a bit of foundation,” Surratt says. “Then line them with a shade very close to your natural lip color, and fill in with a light gloss.” The liner, Surratt explains, will “prevent the gloss from bleeding on to the rest of your face.” And if you opt for a nude, lustrous lip, “play up your eyes, and add a little highlighter to your cheeks,” he suggests.

On the Runway: Pouts got a pale-pink polish at Behnaz Sarafpour, a rosy sheen at J. Mendel, and a coral-colored glaze at MaxMara.

Best Bets: Giorgio Armani Fluid Sheer Foundation, Clinique Sheer Shaper for Lips in Blushy, Stila Lip Polish in Glisten, Smashbox Lip Gloss in Shoot

Bronze Age

For years now, makeup artists have used self-tanners and bronzers to give porcelain-skinned models a faux glow. But for the past few seasons, we’ve seen the fad evolve into a subtler, more believable bake—a trend that continued on the spring runways. “Self-tanners and bronzers can give nice color,” Joy says, “but they tend to have a lot of orangey tones, so you need to choose the right one. One size definitely does not fit all, especially if you’re pale.” For a more realistic glow, “use a blush on the apples of the cheeks, too,” she suggests. And remember, “your head is sitting on your neck, so don’t forget to apply these products to your neck, shoulders, and décolletage.”

On the Runway: Skin was tawny Michael Kors, a rosier glow at Oscar de la Renta, and glowing bronze at Versace.

Best Bets: Jergens Natural Glow, Clarins Liquid Bronze, Bobbi Brown Bronzer and Blush Duo, Stephane Marais Bronzing Powder

A Fine Mess

Deliberately disheveled manes provided a chic contrast to slick strands and cascading curls at the spring shows. According to Lépine, getting a sexy just-rolled-out-of-bed look requires a careful balance between chaos and control. “Use soft-hold products, like light gels, waxes, and pomades, to give the mess some order,” she says. “At that point, you can leave it loose or secure the hair discreetly with pins for a casual updo.”

On the Runway: Strands were messy and sexed-up at Libertine; pulled into haphazard updo’s at Luca Luca; and left loose and wavy at Roberto Cavalli and Missoni.

Best Bets: Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray, John Frieda Beach Blonde Ocean Sea Waves, Aveda Purefume Brillant Humectant Pomade, Matrix Biolage Shaping Crème Wax

The attraction of licensing trademarks for business intentions appears to be at an all-time high, mostly in the fashion arena where consumers are buying more licensed products and brand names than ever before. For retailers, licensing opportunities provide them with a point of difference from their competitors.

Licensing is leasing a legally protected property (like trademarked or copyrighted name, logo, likeness, character, phrase or design) to another party in combination with a product, service or promotion. It is a process which lays stress on consumer management, development of brand equity in line with international imagery, providing right shopping ambience and perhaps is less about manufacturing. Licensing is a way of growing with an already established brand. It provides the brand recall benefits, which are not achievable in case one comes out with a brand new image.

There are many types of licensing business like art & design, corporate brands, events, fashion brands, food & drink, institutional, magazine brands, music, personalities, sports and television licensing to name a few.

The advantages of licensing for licensors
The main advantage for a licensor is the facility to use and develop its brand or property. Licensing can achieve this by:

. Improving its brand existence at a retail or distribution outlet.
. Making further brand perception to support its core products or services.
. Providing and increasing its core values through various links with the licensed products/service or category.
. Coming into new markets (consumer or geographical) which were unfeasible with its own strengths.
. Making new revenue flows, often with little involvement or additional financial resources

The advantage of licensing for licensees
The main advantage for a licensee (particularly manufacturer or retailer) is the capability to considerably upsurge consumer interest in and sales of its products or services. Licensing can achieve this by:

. Shifting the values and consumer favour towards the licensed product or service.
. Providing added value and differentiation in the competitive market.
. Offering additional marketing support or speed from the core property's activity given by the licensor.
. Attracting new target markets who have not been paid attention in a licensee's product or service.
. Providing credibility for shifting into new market sectors through product extension.
. Attaining additional retail space and favor.

Licensing: The increasing scenario worldwide
Reviewing the year-after-year worldwide retail sales from 2000 to 2004, the licensing business this year has shown an increase. In general, 2004 anticipated worldwide retail sales of licensed business increased 1.5 per cent to $175.3 billion against 2003 $172.7 billion, with the USA making nearly $110 billion (nearly $5.805 billion in royalties) and Europe $34 billion. In UK, the brand licensing industry is worth approximately £7billion in retail and £368million in royalties.

Recently many international textile-garment-apparel manufacturing companies are in news due to their licensing agreement with many other companies.

Everlast Worldwide Inc, which is a men's and women's apparel and accessories seller, recently announced signing a new four-year license agreement with Jacques Moret Inc of New York City. As of January 1, 2006, this new agreement grants Moret, a major supplier to the US apparel market, a license for Everlast men's activewear, sportswear, outerwear and swimwear in the United States. Moret will partner with M. Hidary and Company Inc for design, development and sales of the activewear portion of the license. M. Hidary has achieved great success with its vast experience in the men's branded activewear business. They will purchase certain men's apparel inventory owned by Everlast and assume other transitional costs associated with the men's business. Additionally, certain key sales, merchandising and operational personnel will join the new group.

Burnaby, B.C.-based ID Wear, a group of Pimlico Apparel, has recently received the sole license for the manufacture, design and sale of the Playboy brand of high-end denims for the North American market. Pimlico produces denim products for its own brands, ID Wear and private labels such as Nordstrom's and Harley-Davidson. Moreover, ID Wear is the first North American company to provide laser logoing on its garments.

Marvel Enterprises, Inc., a global character-based entertainment licensing company, recently declared that it is strengthening its important apparel licensing business with leading partners Kids Headquarters (as master apparel licensee) and Mad Engine (which will spearhead t-shirts and tops). This statement means a brand new partnership with Kids Headquarters and an expanded relationship with Mad Engine.

Juicy Couture has partnered with Sàfilo Group for a full eyewear collection that it will introduce in spring 2006. A budget-priced set of sunglasses and ophthalmic eyewear for men will also be introduced via an agreement between fashion brand Haggar Clothing Co. and The Feldman Corporation's I-dealoptics division.

Aviation and military-inspired leather outerwear and sportswear brand Avirex signed a multi-year license agreement with Kids Headquarters for sportswear and outerwear for boys.

Outerwear and Sportswear Company G-III Apparel Group obtained privately held outerwear companies Marvin Richards and Winlit Group Ltd. G-III now possesses licenses for Calvin Klein and Guess men's and women's outerwear, Tommy Hilfiger leather outerwear, London Fog and Pacific Trail.

Top 5 Children's Apparel Character Licenses: 2004

1. Winnie the Pooh & Friends
2. Disney Princess
3. Spider-Man
4. Mickey Mouse & Friends
5. SpongeBob SquarePants

Sesame Workshop and Pearl Izumi, an athletic-wear producer, have tied up to launch Sesame Street cycling jerseys and socks. Through a licensing agreement with plus-size apparel manufacturer Bodywaves, Inc., Champion has set up Champion Plus, a full line of women's activewear that covers both performance fitness and "ath-leisure" styles. Warner Bros. Consumer Products and Tunk Limited., a CINQ Group brand, have partnered to make tops, jackets and headwear.

Licensing practice in India on a rise.
Nowadays, many Indian textiles companies are entering into licensing agreements with international brands, leading to the growth of the concept of business through licensing.

Gokaldas Images Ltd, which owns and markets the apparel brand Weekender, has signed an agreement with the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) for licensing and marketing the apparels with the WWE logos in the domestic market. A successful form of licensing - sports licensing, has developed into a multi¬billion dollar systematic business and has increased its scope to sporting events like WWE, the Olympics, EURO, Cricket and Soccer World Cups. It is estimated that one fifth of the WWE's $ 300 million per annum profit is achieved by licensing. Moreover, Weekender - Gokaldas Images Ltd. markets the Enamour lingerie as well.

Character and entertainment licensing too has benefited in last few decades, making billions of dollars of profits each year.

S. Kumars is planning to introduce six new international brands into the country and it is looking towards a long-term partnership with these international textile brands.

Recently, Indus Clothing Ltd signed a licensing agreement with Disney cConsumer Products (DCP) to produce its kids' wear brand Disney cJeans in India. This deal will permit Indus Clothing Ltd to venture into standalone retail stores for the complete product line covering the Disney brand. The company intends to invest about Rs. 21 crore to establish 20 standalone Disney jeans outlets by the end of 2007 and 50 outlets the following year. Their main focus is to put up a strong retail network for the brand and subsequently plan to develop and maintain a consistent brand image. Indus Clothing Ltd is also the licensee for Lee Cooper apparel to market their products in India.

Madura Garments possesses the world license for three brands namely, Louis Philippe, Allen Solly and Peter England. It has now also come into a strategic tie-up with the fast-growing brand Esprit, with an objective of strengthening its brand portfolio in key segments like women's segment, premium relaxed clothes segment and accessories. An Italian brand that is synonymous with MTV, UMM (Underground Music Movement) has joined Pantaloon, one of India's largest retail chain stores.

American innerwear brand Jockey entered the Indian market in 1998 through a marketing arrangement with Bangalore based Page Apparels. Besides the normal production and distribution rights in India, the brand also has a buyback arrangement with the parent company.

The Shirt Company (TSC) has been granted the license by the owner of the Barbie brand - Mattel, to make and retail Barbie apparel in India. For this it works closely with Smith & Brooks, the official licensee for Barbie clothing in the European market. Moreover, the apparel division of the Forbes Gokak Group is the licensee for brands like Daks, Trussardi and Savile Row.

Tommy Hilfiger entered the Indian market through a joint venture between the Murjani Group and the Arvind Mills. Called the Arvind Murjani Brands Private Limited, AMB has the licensing agreement for marketing and distributing Tommy Hilfiger apparel in India. The Murjani Group, located in New York, was established in 1930 by B K Murjani. By 1958, with a production of over 10 million units per annum, Murjani's became one of the biggest apparel producers in the world.

It was in the early 1970s, when Murjani initiated brand name development and marketing. Over the years, the group has widened and introduced a range of major global brands, such as Gloria Vanderbilt, Coca-Cola Clothes and Tommy Hilfiger. Fashion retailer French Connection UK has firmed its plans to launch the brand in India. The company is assumed to be in talks for the licensee deal with Vijay Murjani, Murjani Group.

Many companies prefer licensing in order to reinforce brand image, create recognition and build brand equity. Licensing is the business arrangement in which the proprietor of the 'product', 'trade mark' or 'brand' allows some other group to use its brand name in return for specified royalties or payment.

Recently, the government of India has approved the UK-based kids' care retail chain Mothercare Plc's offer to set up a 100 per cent subsidiary in India with an investment of Rs 32.25 crore. The Indian division will find and purchase textile and garments from local traders and would promote the same in India through franchise operation with third party business associates.

Mothercare has already provided a license to Shopper's Stop to use its trade mark and brand name on the products to be supplied by its Indian subsidiary to the retail major for sale and distribution in India.

Indian players have used the licensing practice after the huge success of the strategy in the international market. The inclination for making business through licensing has assisted many companies to post some big alternations of the otherwise 'own brand extension' concept. Oxford Industries, Inc. is an illustration of how a company can get bigger with licensing. The company is a diversified international producer, licensee and wholesale marketer of branded and private label apparel for men, women and children.

Oxford offers retailers and consumers with a huge variety of apparel products and services to suit their individual requirements. Its major brands cover Tommy Bahama, Indigo Palms, Island Soft, Ben Sherman, Ely and Walker and Oxford Golf. These brands are offered in national chains, specialty catalogues, mass merchants, department stores, specialty stores and Internet retailers. The company also has exclusive licenses to make and sell several product categories under the Tommy Hilfiger, Nautica, Geoffrey Beene, Slates, Dockers and Oscar de la Renta labels.

Fashion licensing is largely divided into two categories: apparel brands and designer names. The priority of fashion licensing is brand extension, which is mainly obtained by designers through licensing products other than their main apparel lines. Calvin Klein remains one of the premier examples for this type of licensing agreement, as its income tripled after adopting such a marketing strategy.

In 1997, licensing, which is responsible for more than 90 per cent of the label's sales, has now made the brand's global retail volume of about $ 5 billion from $ 2.1 billion in 1994. Many international brands catering to Indian players for licensing is a clear signal that a market which was premature a couple of years back, has now been accepted by the entire business community and will reach to its maximum level in the coming years. Licensing prospects now exist in all spheres. Leading international names that offer huge opportunities to harness the power of their name are Warner Bros, You and Me Baby, Nickelodeon, Barcode Kitties and BBC Worldwide, that is famous for operating brand names like Teletubbies, Tweenies and Fimbles.

Conclusion

In year 2004 licensing business shown tremendous growth, with notably 5.6 percent increment in entertainment, 3.8 percent in brands & trademarks and also showed good growth in other categories compared to 2003. So as character and entertainment licensing business showed a healthy growth in last few decades, and making billions of dollars of profits each year, the prospects of over all business, particularly fashion, textile and garment retailing will definitely have a bright future.

Fibre2fashion.com - Leading B2B Portal and Marketplace of Global Textile, Apparel and Fashion Industry offers Free Industry Articles, Textile Articles, Fashion Articles, Industry Reports, Technology Article, Case Studies, Textile Industry News Articles, Latest Fashion Trends, Textile Market Trends Reports and Global Industry Analysis.

Many companies that specialize in catering and or group parties use the telephone as a way to solicit new clientele. Generally telephone sales of this type are illegal due to the telemarketing act however, often these telephone salespeople and group party planners will get the people's phone number from a party rental company, a wedding party consultants or someone like this. This allows them to call up and solicit by the phone without breaking the law.

Generally telephone sales for group parties are a fairly easy job and many of the people that specialize in this type of sales make quite a bit of money. A lot of times they will coordinate and get a very large commission with the caterer, DJ and other people who will be there to help out with the party. Decoration specialists and the others mentioned usually come in a team.

One of the tactics of these telephone salespeople will use to sell group parties is to explain the deep discounting available for the number of people who are attending the party. For instance for 10 to 20 people and maybe one price but for 30 to 40 people the price might be 30% less per person and they try to get the party bigger and bigger by asking the person they're selling to who else might they like to invite to their big party. Please consider all this in 2006.

Congratulations on being selected to organize the Annual Company Picnic this year! Truly an honor and opportunity! It is also a very large responsibility!

Just think of it, you have the chance to shine in the eyes of your peers by organizing a company event that will be long remembered by all of your coworkers. You will be well respected for all of your hard work and who knows, you may impress your boss so much that he gives you a promotion or a big fat bonus.

On the other hand, if you screw this up, then, well, I'm sure you can imagine.

People around the water cooler will stop talking and glare at you when you walk by. Somehow you'll keep missing the memos and will be left out of the weekly meetings. Lunchtime will become very lonely and you'll soon end up eating at your desk from a brown paper sack in solitude and despair, pondering why you ever agreed to organize such a sacred thing as the Company Picnic. It will be a sad lonely time for you if you screw this up.

Not too pleasant of a thought to think about, is it?

Not to fear though, with a little knowledge and some good planning you'll give them a picnic that won't soon be forgotten!

Even if you're a small company with only a few employees these tips will help in planning your company picnic. The only real difference is the amount of invites. The planning remains the same no matter how many guests will be attending.

But where do you start?

First off, you have a few things to figure out such as, the Number of Guests, Budget, Location, Date and Time, Picnic Theme, Food, Entertainment, and Prizes.

You'll also need to think about, invitations, liability insurance, transportation, and cleanup.

Now is probably a good time to do some Q&A and begin your preliminary lists.

We'll start off by asking a few "need to know" questions:

* What is the Estimated Number of Guests?

If employee family members are invited you will have to do some research. Your PR department may be able to give you the overall head count for employees and family. Handing out invitations with a response request of amount of family members that will attend will give you an accurate count. This way you won't have wasted food, or even worse, not enough food!

* What is the available Budget?

Logically, this is a major factor in the planning of your picnic. You must know how much money you have to spend in order to do much planning. In many cases you may be required to submit a proposal to your boss containing your overall plans with picnic theme, picnic location, estimated costs, etc. You may also be required to submit several versions of this proposal with varying themes and expenses.

* When is the Date of the Company Picnic?

Will it be held in the spring, summer or fall? Hopefully it won't be held in the winter time. At least not in a location where it's below 65 degrees. People won't stay very long if it's cold. Discounted park rental rates are often available in non peak months

* What will the Picnic Theme be?

Will the theme be based upon the company? Will it be a BBQ style picnic? Perhaps a seasonal type of theme? I once attended a company picnic that had a medieval type of theme. The park that was rented contained medieval scenery complete with a 20 foot plastic dragon and a miniature golf course. It was simply the best company picnic that I had ever attended! If you're not too sure upon your picnic theme one idea would be to poll your coworkers by giving them a selection of themes to choose from. Tally up the votes and you have your theme. Another idea would be to set out a "Picnic Theme Suggestion Box" in a frequented area of the company or if you have a company intranet get your webmaster to post your poll on the company Bulletin Board. See what the masses want. You may get some good ideas along with appreciation from your coworkers for letting them have some input into this company event.

* What will be the Location of the Company Picnic?

The selection of the location will depend upon a couple of factors. If you have a large amount of people that will attend the event then a park with only a couple of picnic tables will not suffice. You will need an area that can adequately contain the amount of guests. You will also want to try and locate an area that is relevant to your picnic theme. A tropical picnic theme may not work very well at a medieval miniature golf course. A beach area on a lake or ocean would be more appropriate for this. Many company picnics are held at amusement parks such as Six Flags. Special discounts can often be obtained for large groups along with private picnic area reservations. You will have to research your local area and make a few phone calls when seeking your picnic location. If possible an area with shelter from the weather is desirable. This way if it rains on your parade you can continue the festivities in a dry location. Large open air tents can be rented to provide protection from the sun along with keeping everyone dry in the case of rain. Look in the phone book under "Party Rentals". There is a good chance there is a location nearby.

* What type of food will be served?

Here again budget plays a major role. If you have only $10 per person to spend on food, rib eye steaks may not be a wise idea. You will also want to vary your selection of foods for various appetites. Vegetarian and vegan choices should be included along with kosher foods. It's always better to be safe than sorry. You can always have the affair catered if budget permits. Many companies exist that specialize in catering company picnics. You can find caters for a very small amount of guests up to thousands of guests. A catered affair also gives a nice professional atmosphere. Trust me, the cost of a caterer is well worth the time and hassle saved. If you're going to prepare the food yourself then you will need people and facilities to do this. It may get a bit overwhelming if you're out there flipping burgers for 600 people. You will want to try and find some volunteers to chip in part of their picnic day to help you out. Perhaps put up a volunteer signup sheet on the company bulletin board. Even if you cook everything at home and bring it to the picnic you will still need help with transporting, serving and cleanup. You will also need to ensure that you have grills and stoves available for your use at your picnic location if you plan on cooking. Large BBQ grills and stoves can be rented at many places. Hint; Propane grills are much easier to work with and a lot less messy than charcoal grills are. Some parks may not let you bring in your own grills so be sure and check with them when researching your picnic location.

* What type of Entertainment will you have?

Quality entertainment is a key element in a fun, successful company picnic. If all your picnic contains is food, once the eating is over everyone will soon be gone. If your company picnic is to be held at an amusement park then most of the battle is won. If not, then renting a band or a D.J. works very well. Everyone loves music, and if it's a good band then all the better. You will want to check references when considering a band or D.J. At the very least go and watch their performance. Plan some games such as volleyball and Frisbee Golf if the area permits. Many people enjoy horseshoes and yard darts also. Keep kids in mind when planning your games. Rope off areas where items such as horseshoes and yard darts are tossed. Nothing ruins a picnic faster than having to remove a yard dart from a 10 year olds head. Give away gifts and prizes. By holding a drawing near the end of the picnic people are more likely to hang around to see if they win anything. Prizes can range from restaurant gift cards to Bahamas Cruises. Nothing adds excitement quite the way winning a 5 day Bahamas cruise does.

* Are there any legal issues?

Check with the company lawyer to see if you will need to take out any sort of liability insurance. If someone gets hurt, such as a yard dart stuck in their head, you will want to be sure that you are covered. Some parks such as Six Flags may provide this type of insurance. Check with your PR Department also to see if the company's existing insurance policy will cover such events.

This should give you a good start on planning your company picnic. Use your imagination and at hand resources during your planning. Don't try and do everything yourself. Many people will be willing to help you out just for the asking. Delegate tasks to your volunteers where their strengths lie. If they're an accountant, assign them to the budget plan. Ask for and listen to their input also. Two heads are often better than one after all.

Make lots of lists. Categorize your lists and then break them down into smaller lists. Keep records of even the smallest things. You can even make a list of your lists and whom you have assigned them to. Check off completed items as you do them. This will ensure that every detail has been dealt with and nothing overlooked.

By organizing in this way and paying attention to detail your company picnic will run smoothly and is certain to be a big success. You'll be greeted at the water cooler with a smile come Monday morning and not hissed at as you walk down the halls. In fact your shoulders may well get bruised from all of the pats on the back that you will get. The next thing you know you may have an office on the top floor with a desk bigger than your kitchen table with a window view overlooking the bay. The boss popping in to see if you're up for lunch this afternoon and if you will be able to attend the cruise that is being organized in your honor.