You Sunk My Battleship!

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A classic 70’s game that you try to sink your opponents battle ships before yours are sunk. We just blew it up to be giant sized.

Command your fleet and rule the seas! Seek and sink your enemy’s ships before they find and sink yours! Unlock hidden super weapons like torpedoes and heat-seeking missiles to launch a firestorm of destruction. There are more ways to play, so fire away!

We’ve all played it, that wonderful game that pits player against player with warring strategy and tempts us all to throw the board. The game, is Battleship. The goal of Battleship is to hit the opponent’s ships with pegs or ‘missiles’ until you win. Each player is given the opportunity to configure their battle plan however they choose placing their ships around the board.

Our all new Battleship is perfect for college events, team building activities, corporate events and picnics!  Entertain your gusts for hours will keeping them on their toes. This game is the perfect addition to our Giant Games family pair it was Giant Jenga, Giant Hungry Hippo and Giant Twister for a retro theme!

Dating back to World War I, the concept of Battleship originated when war games were popular. Beginning as a ‘pencil and pad’ game, it was published in this form by several companies and in the 1960’s was released as a plastic board game by the toy and gaming giant, Milton Bradley. The game was thought to have originated in France and has changed and evolved ever since.

Battleship is played with two players who each have their own fleet of ships. Each player places their fleet on a grid (squares) that are identified by a number and a letter for coordinates. There are five ships that are placed on the grid and include: the carrier, which is five grid spaces; the battleship that is four; the cruiser that is three; the submarine that is 3; and the destroyer that is two.

Once the players place their ships on the grid each takes turns shooting missiles to sink each other’s fleets. If a ship is hit, you put a peg in it to show that it has been hit. The game goes on until one player sinks all the ships of the other player.

A super fun game – one that we have all played and that is great if you’re looking for a bit of strategy mixed with a bit of luck. This classic is now larger than life, and is perfect for an indoor or outdoor event where you’re looking to add giant synergy, hours of excitement and lasting memories. Rent this today for your next college, fun fair or corporate event!

What are the hottest products for back to school events?

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Summer has flown by once again.  August is here and that means it’s time to plan your back-to-school events. No matter the season or the reason for your involvement with coordinating something special, these event-planning tips can help it all go smoothly while ensuring all in attendance have a great time.

Here’s a look at some of the most inspiring ideas and the hottest products for back to school:

Theme Parties: Determining the type of atmosphere you want to evoke before you start planning an event will help you achieve the right balance of entertainment and  fun. Having a themed event is easy to coordinate and the ideas are endless.  Throw an 80’s themed party or Olympic themed event or how about a Luau.  Our college event planners can assist you with a specific theme and the right rentals that will work with it.

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Inflatable Obstacles:  Our grown up inflatables deliver on being challenging and fun, perfect for college events.  Our best selling rentals include WipeoutMeltdown, Black oPs , Tidal Wave Zipline and of course out 60 foot Mega Mountain which is one of our largest obstacles. Screen Shot 2017-02-16 at 9.17.59 AM

team building activities illinois indianaGiant FUN & GAMES: Games like Speed Racer Oversized Slot Car RacingSpeed Cart 4 Wheel Pedal RacersThe Giant Bulls EyeBouncy Boxing RentalThe Giant Roller BowlerGotta GO Toilet RacersHuman Bumper CarsThe Giant Big Comfy ChairAdult Trike RentalsConnect 4Jumbo JengaKerplunkOperationCheckers, and even Twister will delight guests of all ages with their super-sized fun! It’s the BIG FUN you grew up with…but these are classic games with a twist.  Check out our all NEW Giant Battleship!

AMJ-Spectacular-Events-Mini-DONUT-BarFood for Thought: Your back to school event is not complete without some concessions.  The hottest rentals for colleges right now is our mini donut machine, but everyone loves our popcorn machines and ice cream cart.

Photo Fun: There’s nothing like taking photos to capture memories from family events and AMJ has a large selection. Check out our  Photo Booth , GreenScreen or if you really want to get creative try out our Open Air Photo Studio screen-shot-2016-10-12-at-12-05-46-pm

Be sure to contact us right away to check on availability – Just call us (630-833-4386) or email us (sales@amjse.com) right away.  Imagine having these rentals at your event!  http://collegeeventrentals4u.com

There’s No Place Like NACA!

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March 30 – April 2, 2017; St. Paul, MN

 

Donuts, inflatables and photos…oh my! AMJ Spectacular Events is headed to the 2017 NACA® Northern Plains Regional Conference in St. Paul, Minnesota! We are so excited please stop by booth#129-131 and be sure to check out our latest products and event rentals!

The Mini Donut Bar turns donut making into a quick and easy thing.   Our on-site donut maker will do all the prep and work to ensure that our guests are enjoying piping hot donuts in no time! We also set up a line of dessert condiments to add to the donuts, like powdered sugar or glaze, and let everyone customize their donuts.AMJ-Spectacular-Events-Mini-DONUT-Bar

Everything you need to make donuts for all your guests is supplied with the Mini Donut Bar.  We provide hot fresh delicious mini donuts prepared right on site for your event or private party. Not only do we make them right in front of you and your guests, but we do so in a way that is visually entertaining as well. Our goal is to give your guests something to remember your event by and AMJ Spectacular Events always delivers!

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Perfect for College Events! Capture those moments on film with the Open Air Photo StudioYour guests won’t need their selfie sticks with this interactive photo studio from AMJSE! Your guests will be able to capture their favorite memories from your event, strike a pose, or make silly faces with this perfect addition to your party! By using state-of-the art “green screen” technology, your guests will be delighted with a truly interactive photo experience with endless possibilities!

 

 

10450829_800554406641521_5134568719049949072_nHave you ever wanted to be on a Popular TV Show? Well renting AMJ’s, MELTDOWN is the next best thing! Our 8 player action game, which challenges your stamina, agility and reactions. Not one but two spinning boom arms try to knock  you off your podium. The poles change direction every 20 seconds, keeping the players  guessing!

Must Have Products for Campus Events

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The Nationals are here and what a perfect time to let you know that AMJ Spectacular Events has one of the largest selection of products for your campus events.   The National Convention heads to Baltimore February 18-22, 2017, for four days of great entertainment, business connections and educational & professional development opportunities!  AMJ Spectacular Events works with colleges to create the perfect event whether it is for late night programming, parents weekend or end of the year parties. AMJ is proud to be a member of NACA.

AMJ will not be attending the National Conference this year but here are some of the hottest products to hit the college campus!

Mini Donut Bar…..MmmmmmAMJ-Spectacular-Events-Mini-DONUT-Bar

The Mini Donut Bar turns donut making into a quick and easy thing.   Our on-site donut maker will do all the prep and work to ensure that our guests are enjoying piping hot donuts in no time! We also set up a line of dessert condiments to add to the donuts, like powdered sugar or glaze, and let everyone customize their donuts.

Everything you need to make donuts for all your guests is supplied with the Mini Donut Bar.  We provide hot fresh delicious mini donuts prepared right on site for your event or private party. Not only do we make them right in front of you and your guests, but we do so in a way that is visually entertaining as well. Our goal is to give your guests something to remember your event by and AMJ Spectacular Events always delivers!

Screen Shot 2017-02-16 at 9.17.59 AMBlack oPs extreme obstacle course

Black oPs extreme inflatable two-laned obstacle course is for the more rugged participants. If you are up for the mission, then get ready to have a feeling that you are engaging in a war of strength, speed and endurance. Battle your opponent to victory as you make your way through the bricked wall entrance, down the path of stone pillars, with tunnels and passageways to maneuver through. The journey doesn’t end here, the challenging rock climbing wall leads you to the uniquely designed-really fun teeter-totter pivoting bridge. Lastly, speed down the slide to the finish line! Renting this extreme obstacle course inflatable at your next event will be an amazing addition for those insatiable energized adolescent and adults.

Custom Sign Plates, add your school name!Screen Shot 2017-02-16 at 9.19.18 AM

Let the creativity begin! Our custom sign plates are the perfect unique addition to your event. Customers will love being able to create memorable street signs, license plates, or dry erase boards with their favorite picture or saying. We offer a variety of colors, fonts, and graphics to make your sign unique! These are a favorite at craft fairs and festivals.

AMJ has a reputation for throwing a FUN event that your guests will remember for a long time.  Check out our full 2017 catalog for thousands of rental products!  Here is a video of a college event we did: https://youtu.be/UZMefZJLgp0 We look forward to helping you plan your next campus event! http://www.collegeeventrentals4u.com

Hot, fresh mini donuts for your next event!

 

AMJ-Spectacular-Events-Mini-DONUT-BarCan you smell that tempting aroma of fresh baked treats? Wow your guests with these hot and delicious donuts right out of the oven, a definite crowd favourite! Try them in cinnamon sugar, or icing sugar! Make super fast delicious donuts with our Mini Donut Bar. Make the donuts to order in less than a minute! They come out piping hot and ready to eat!   Just sprinkle them with a bit of cinnamon and sugar, or any other sweet topping you would like, and enjoy!

The Mini Donut Bar turns donut making into a quick and easy thing.   Our on-site donut maker will do all the prep and work to ensure that our guests are enjoying piping hot donuts in no time! We also set up a line of dessert condiments to add to the donuts, like powdered sugar or glaze, and let everyone customize their donuts.

Everything you need to make donuts for all your guests is supplied with the Mini Donut Bar.  We provide hot fresh delicious mini donuts prepared right on site for your event or private party. Not only do we make them right in front of you and your guests, but we do so in a way that is visually entertaining as well. Our goal is to give your guests something to remember your event by and AMJ Spectacular Events always delivers!

Happiness Is A Hot Donut!

Are you looking for a unique, mouth-watering idea for your next party, or social event? Nothing makes people smile like fresh, hot donuts, so let us dazzle you and your guests!  We don’t just make donuts, we make smiles!

Mini Donuts Are Perfect For:

  • Weddings
  • Corporate Events
  • KidsParties
  • Birthdays
  • Bar/Bat Mitzvahs
  • Fund Raisers
  • School Functions
  • College Events

ITEMS THAT COME WITH THE MINI DONUT BAR RENTAL:

  • Unlimited mini donuts during the rental period (our machine can produce 1200 donuts/hour)
  • Cinnamon & Sugar
  • Powdered Sugar
  • Toppings for “Sprinkles” donuts
    • vanilla glaze icing
    • multi-colored sprinkles
  • Chocolate Sauce

If you are looking for an exciting addition to your event, please feel free to contact us and we will share with you how we can add some fun and great taste! Call us at 630-833-4386 or visit us at http://www.amoonjump4u.com

AMJSE is gearing up for this year’s NACA Conference!

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We are so excited for this year’s NACA Conference in Covington, KY.  The conference will take place on October 27th through October 30th.  We are known for having the latest in interactive product rentals and this year we will feature and highlight some of our latest products that are perfect for college events.

AMJ offers spectacular products for Late Night Programming, Late Night Events, Homecoming, Alumni Week, Back to School, End of School, Formal Events, Formals, Outdoor Movies, Indoor Movies, Movie packages and much more. Here are some ideas for rentals to get you started with your programming at your school:

Our Green Screen equipment competes with the latest gear used by professional photographers and Hollywood directors. From the lighting and cameras that we use to our industry-leading software, we have everything you’ll need to take high-definition, beautiful pictures. Not only do we have the best equipment available, but we can also provide you with costumes and additional accessories to help enhance the photos.

Open Air Photo Studio :Your guests won’t need their selfie sticks with this interactive photo studio from AMJSE! Your guests will be able to capture their favorite memories from your event, strike a pose, or make silly faces with this perfect addition to your party!

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Graffiti Wall:Pull out the “digital spray cans” and the fun begins! A new state-of-the-art attraction for creating digital graffiti at events using a laptop, projection screen and an infrared can. Guests press on the spray can and aim it at the screen to “digitally” paint on their screen photo or background.

Movie Nights:  Great for indoor or outdoor movie nights. It all starts with the screen – how about a 17′ x 25′ inflatable movie screen!  (The actual viewing area is 11′ x 19′).  Since it’s inflatable, it’s easy to set up outside or inside.  And since it’s huge, you’ll be able to accommodate plenty of people! Our inflatable movie screen rentals come with all necessary projector and audio equipment, so your viewing experience is clear. Popcorn machine and other party rentals are also availablecollege-event-equipment-rentals-amj-spectactular-events-3

How does a $100 gift card  to help thank and feed the planning committee sound?! Put your email in at Booth #430 for chance to WIN. A winner chosen every day! We look forward to seeing you there! http://www.collegeeventrentals4u.com

 https://www.naca.org/MIDAMERICA/Pages/default.aspx

October 27th through October 30th
2016 NACA® Mid America Regional Conference

Lindsey Rhea – Chicago Hospitality Professional of the Month (September 2016)

Lindsey Rhea

Lindsey Rhea

Here’s the interview with Lindsey Rhea, Event Sales Executive at AMJ Spectacular Events and this month’s Chicago Hospitality Professional of the month (September 2016)

  1. First and foremost, can you tell us your current position, company and describe what you do? 

I’m an Event Sales Executive at AMJ Spectacular Events. We’re a complete Event Rental Company that’s been bringing entertainment to the Midwest for the last 15 years. Anything from inflatables and zip lines to arcade equipment and casino nights we cover it all. I coordinate all of the entertainment “pieces of the puzzle” so to speak.

  1. What aspects of hospitality do you incorporate in your business today? 

Finding new ways to make my client’s day and event easier by being an event resource for more than just event rental equipment. From the first call, I’m my client’s event resource. For me, it’s more than simply renting out equipment. It’s about making everything leading up to the event run smoothly and seamlessly, so that when the day arrives, the client can fully enjoy and relax.

  1. Where did your hospitality career begin and when was that “aha” moment when you knew you were supposed to be in hospitality as a career?

When I was in high school, I took an interactive hospitality course, which taught students about catering detail and restaurant management. Several times throughout the school year, each student was responsible for managing the operation – from ordering supplies and staffing assignments, to meal execution, and everything in between. After that school year, and in conjunction with what I was already doing at AMJ Spectacular Events, I knew that a path in hospitality was the one I wanted to pursue.

  1. How many years have you been in the hospitality business?

I’ve been around it since I was about 10 years old, but really began actively participating at about 14 years old.

  1. Why do you feel you are hospitality professional of the month? What would your friends say about you if they were nominating you?

I think that I’m the hospitality professional of the month because I’m part of the next generation of event planners. I’m consistently bringing in fresh ideas on how to change up a standard corporate event. My friends would say that I’m incapable of throwing a basic dinner party, and that I tend to one-up myself. They would also likely say that I’m they’re go-to party planner. This further supports that hospitality is more than just a job to me; it’s a way of life.  Awesome! 

  1. What qualities do you feel a person needs to excel in as a hospitality professional?

They need to have a good amount of patience, flexibility, the ability to listen, and to be able to problem solve “on the fly.” Even the best event coordinator can’t predict the weather. Most importantly, however, I learned early on to put my client’s needs ahead of mine, no matter what. Knowing this has helped me grow in every direction.

  1. How did you get into hospitality field?

From 2001 to today, I’ve watched AMJ Spectacular events grow from a business that started in a 1,000 square foot space (my parent’s basement) to a 30,000 square foot warehouse. One can imagine the amount of hard work that my parents and their business partner put into making that happen, and so their families were involved almost by default at first. Over the years, my responsibilities and contributions have increased.  After high school, I went to Purdue University to study Hospitality & Tourism Management, and subsequently received my Certificate in Entrepreneur & Leadership Innovation. At age 21, Marriott International recruited me as a Food & Beverage Manager for the Renaissance Chicago. While I enjoyed the work I was doing there, ultimately I returned to AMJ Spectacular Events. Today, it’s a family-owned and operated business, 365 days a year. I feel very fortunate to be able to do what I love while being surrounded by the people that I love.

  1. Who has been the biggest influence in your life?

My parents, Steve and Kathy, and their business partner, Bill, are by far the most influential people in my life. The three of them began AMJ Spectacular Events from the ground up and never imagined that we’d be fortunate enough to end up where we are today. They lead by example showing that hard work is the only way to accomplish any goals in life or in business. The three of them have taught me that setbacks and successes alike are opportunities to learn and grow, and compromise and communication are the key to a successful team. 

  1. What kinds of things really make you laugh?

I laugh everyday. I imagine that’s because I’m happy with the work I’m doing, where I’m doing it, and who I’m doing it with.

  1. What’s your favorite place in the entire world?

Door County, Wisconsin, where my parents have another home. This is where I go to relax and unwind. 

  1. What is your favorite movie of all time? Why so?

The Breakfast Club, because of all the funny one-liners.

  1. What’s your biggest goal in life right now?

I’m at the brink of accomplishing my biggest goal, which is to own a home. I’ve been looking for quite some time, and I’ve finally found the perfect one for me, and will be closing any day now! 

  1. What is your favorite way to spend a Saturday?

On my occasional Saturday’s off from work, I like to wander around Chicago, visit new restaurants, bars and other establishments, and of course catch a Cubs game whenever possible!

  1. Do you have any pet peeves?

Loud chewing- it drives me crazy!

  1. What was your family like growing up?

Big & loud! I’m one of four siblings, and our house was always filled with family, cousins and friends. Most of us all lived near one another, so we were always very involved in everyone’s lives. As an adult, I’ve come to appreciate that, for better or worse, my family has always been near.

  1. What were you like as a kid?

I’m the oldest of my siblings, so I’ve always been a leader. Although, according to my younger siblings, this word could probably be interchanged with “bossy.” I was always curious, asking tons of questions, and rarely stopped talking. Some may say not much has changed since then…

  1. What should I know about you that I’d never think to ask about?

I’m a first level sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers.

  1. Did you—or do you—have a nickname? What’s the story behind it?

Sadly I do not have any good nicknames that have stuck over the years. No, I don’t have any nicknames. I’m not sure if that’s a good thing or bad thing…

  1. Have you received any praise or accolades recently?

I consider this Spotlight to be a rather high honor.

  1. What type of events you plan?

We carry inventory for all ages and types of events, so it varies. I typically coordinate corporate picnics, holiday parties, team building activities, and collegiate events. However, with some of our newer inventory, I’ve been working with local Wedding Planners to bring fun new pieces to weddings!

  1. What type of music do you love?

I love most types of music, especially alternative, acoustic and country.

  1. What don’t people know about you?

I’ve never seen any of the Star Wars movies.

  1. What do you love about planning events in Chicago?

There are so many venue styles and options available for every type of event indoor or out. Plus pairing with some of the most talented vendors in the industry puts Chicago, in my opinion, on the map as an ideal event site destination.

  1. What is your favorite restaurant or bar (Personally)?

My favorite restaurant is Pazzi Di Pizza in Elmhurst. They serve authentic Italian food made from scratch and have a great atmosphere, not to mention the great wine selection. 

  1. When not working, what do you love to do?

Travel! Whether it’s a road trip or a cross-country flight to visit friends, I try to take the opportunity to go see new places.

  1. Besides your professional talent, do you have any personal talents? (Play guitar, etc.)

I play the piano and cook & bake as much as I can.

  1. Future trends in event planning?

I’ve found recently that giant retro throwback games have been becoming more popular (Connect 4, Jenga, Operation, Light Bright, etc.) Both corporate and social clients have started bringing in arcade equipment and giant games into their events for low impact, but fun entertainment. They’re fun for party guests of all ages.

  1. What does it take to be a successful event planner?

You have to be able to predict issues that may arise, and try to prevent them ahead of time. Learning from your mistakes and taking those experiences to avoid potential issues is worth something in the long run. You also have to have a conscious understanding that you can’t control everything, but plan what you can and be ready to quickly solve unforeseen circumstances.

  1. What is your favorite color?

Pink!

  1. What are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about growing with AMJ Spectacular Events. Each year we’re fortunate to add more employees, which means we’re able to provide jobs to help support more families. Our company isn’t a large corporation, so I have the pleasure of getting to know and working closely with the office staff, on site staff, and operations staff. For each event booked, it’s an opportunity for us to grow as a team. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of successfully pulling off a large project.

  1. What do you recommend for others who want to get into the hospitality profession?

Be prepared for an unconventional work schedule! But also be prepared to work in an industry that holds events, dinners, and many other gatherings simply to have a good time. They should embrace that idea and lots of great things will fall into place.

  1. Do you have any Association affiliations?

MPI, NACA & SIOTO 

  1. Are you a Cubs or Sox fan?

Cubbies

  1. What’s your go-to meal when you’re home alone?

Pasta. I’m not picky. I love it all.

  1. What’s your favorite thing about your hometown?

I grew up in Elmhurst, and I love the sense of community. It seems like anytime I go to dinner or to grab an ice cream, I inevitably run into friends.

  1. Which book(s) have you read multiple times?

Reading is one of my favorite things to do to relax, I’m never far from my Kindle. I love a good series, but don’t usually reread many books. However My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult is one that I enjoyed and read more than once.

  1. What’s on your bucket list?

To spend a few weeks eating & drinking wine through the different regions of Italy.

  1. What’s the most embarrassing moment you’ve had?

Let’s just say I’m not the most coordinated person in the world, so I have a number of embarrassing moments!

  1. What was your First concert?

Blink 182

  1. If you had to go back to school or learn a new skill, what would you want to learn?

Graphic Design

  1. What are your thoughts about Hereschicago.com? 

It’s an amazing resource for both local and long distance planners to find some of the best vendors in the industry.

AMJSE at theNACA® Mid America Regional Conference!

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AMJ Spectacular Events will be at the NACA® Mid America Regional Conference this week.  We will be showcasing and talking about some of our new and exciting products for college events this year. Popular this year is our challenging obstacle course Black oPs, race your friends to the end.  Fly high in the air on our Extreme Air or test your patience and skill on the Meltdown.  We also have our indoor Movie Night packages and fun new novelties like our Custom Street Signs  or create a memory of your event with Flip Books

Stop by our booth at the NACA Conference and speak to one of our event planners on how we can help you plan your college campus event. We carry the largest selection, most extensive and impressive interactive games and activities, all in ONE warehouse. AMJ offers spectacular products for Late Night Programming, Late Night Events, Homecoming, Alumni Week, Back to School, End of School, Formal Events, Formals, Outdoor Movies, Indoor Movies, Movie packages and much more.

The National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) is the recognized leader in higher education providing knowledge, ideas and resources for campus life. Stop by and see us at Booth # 332!

Visit us at http://collegeeventrentals4u.com

AMJ will be at the APCA Midwest this week!

At AMJ Spectacular Events

College Event Planning is a breeze! 

AMJ Spectacular Events will be at the APCA Conference on Oct. 24th-26th

Booth #47  Location: Chicago Marriott O’hare

 We have all your College Event planning needs under one roof.   Back to school, fraternity parties,
late night programming, movies in the quad, end of the year bash, or alumni fundraisers, homecoming events. 

 Our expert College Event planners will help you plan an exciting college event that is anything but boring.   
Thom has great knowledge of college events and will help guide you in choosing the right products. Contact Thom at thomas@amjse.com 

Some of our popular products include Movie Nights, MeltdownEuro Bungy,Wipeout and our Zipline.  Please stop by our booth and ask us about rentals for your college. http://collegeeventrentals4u.com

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