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Musings, Rambles, and Maybe a Little Nonsense

The Tapsters Blog

Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

The Rise of Customizable Menus at Private Catered Events: A Must-Have for 2025

As we approach 2025, one trend is shaping the future of private catered events: customizable menus tailored to individual guest preferences. Clients are now seeking more than just food—they want immersive dining experiences that reflect dietary needs, personal tastes, and the latest culinary trends. Whether you're planning a wedding, corporate gathering, or private celebration, offering customizable catering options will elevate your event, making it more inclusive and memorable for your guests.

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

The Tipping Debate in the U.S.: Is It Going Too Far?

Tipping has long been a practice in the U.S. that leaves many people divided. While some view it as an essential way to reward excellent service, others argue that tipping has become an overextended obligation, with digital prompts popping up everywhere, from coffee shops to takeout counters. The rise of "tip fatigue" has led to questions like: when is tipping appropriate, and should we continue tipping in as many scenarios as we do now?

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

Planning a Corporate Cocktail Hour: Office and Venue Event Considerations

A corporate cocktail hour is a fantastic way to foster connections, celebrate successes, or unwind with colleagues. Whether you’re hosting at the office or at a venue like The 507 in Washington, DC, careful planning is essential. From staffing and logistics to crafting the perfect drink menu, here’s everything you need to know to create a seamless and memorable experience.

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

Discover the Charm of Local Flavors: The History and Recipe of Virginia’s Classic She-Crab Soup

When it comes to iconic Southern cuisine, few dishes capture the essence of Virginia’s culinary heritage like She-Crab Soup. This luxurious, creamy soup has been a staple of Virginia’s coastal cuisine for over a century, embodying the region's rich seafood tradition. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, learning about She-Crab Soup not only tantalizes your taste buds but also connects you to the heart of Virginia’s food culture.

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

How to Properly Staff Your Event: The Key to Seamless Service

When it comes to planning an event, whether it's a corporate function, wedding reception, or private dinner, ensuring that you have the right number of staff members is essential to its success. Proper staffing impacts everything—from food service to guest experience—and can often be the difference between a smooth, memorable occasion and one that falls flat. Unfortunately, staffing is an area many planners try to cut costs, but doing so can lead to disastrous consequences. Here’s a breakdown of how to properly staff various types of events and why investing in the right amount of service is crucial.

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

The Rise of Sustainable Catering: How Eco-Friendly Events Are Shaping Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia

As more people become environmentally conscious, the demand for sustainable catering is on the rise. In the Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area, both individuals and businesses are looking for ways to host eco-friendly events without compromising on style or quality. At On The Fly Tapsters, we’re dedicated to helping clients create memorable events that are also kind to the planet. Let’s dive into how sustainable catering is shaping the future of events and how you can make a difference with your next gathering.

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

Craft Cocktails on Tap: The New Trend Redefining Event Catering in Virginia, Maryland, and DC

In the bustling event scene across Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC, one trend is rapidly gaining traction: craft cocktails on tap. This innovative approach is transforming how drinks are served, making it easier than ever to delight guests with top-quality, handcrafted beverages. If you’re planning an event in the DMV area, here’s why you should consider embracing this trend.

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

What to Ask and Consider When Hiring a Mobile Bar Service

Hiring a mobile bar service can elevate your event, but it’s crucial to ask the right questions and consider specific factors to ensure everything goes smoothly. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate gathering, or private party, understanding what to expect from a mobile bar service can make a significant difference. Here’s what you should keep in mind when choosing the right service for your event.

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

A Taste of Scotland: Our Unforgettable Experience with The Hebridean Baker

As summer draws to a close and the leaves begin to hint at the colors of fall, our family was fortunate to enjoy a delightful day steeped in Scottish tradition at the Virginia Scottish Games this Labor Day weekend. The sweltering heat didn’t deter us as we eagerly made our way to the festival, excited to immerse ourselves in the rich culture and history of Scotland. This year’s event was particularly special because my daughter, Natalia, and I had the honor of attending a lecture by the famous Hebridean Baker, Coinneach Macleod.

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

Why You Need an ABRA Licensed Bartender for Your Event in Washington, DC

If you’re planning a private event in Washington, DC, and considering serving alcohol, it’s crucial to understand the legal requirements surrounding the service and sale of alcoholic beverages. Many event organizers overlook these details, only to find themselves in a panic when they realize the mobile bartending service they hired isn’t compliant with DC laws. This blog post will help clarify the importance of hiring an ABRA-licensed bartender and the potential risks of working with unlicensed services.

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

National Red Wine Day - August 28

To celebrate National Red Wine Day, we’re excited to offer a special promotion throughout the month of October on our charcuterie cups and 3 liters of our kegged Organic Sangria wine, perfect for drop-off happy hour events. This offer is ideal for happy hours, office parties, book clubs, meetings, girls' nights out, and more.

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

Holiday Catering Trends: What to Expect This Year

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, there's no better time to enjoy a craft cocktail that embodies the flavors of fall. At On The Fly Tapsters, we pride ourselves on creating unique, seasonal cocktails that are perfect for any autumn event.

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

Crafting the Perfect Fall Cocktail: A Behind-the-Scenes Look

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, there's no better time to enjoy a craft cocktail that embodies the flavors of fall. At On The Fly Tapsters, we pride ourselves on creating unique, seasonal cocktails that are perfect for any autumn event. But we know that planning a memorable event, especially when it comes to the bar, can be overwhelming. You might be asking yourself: "How do I ensure my guests are impressed with the drinks? What if the cocktails don’t capture the essence of the season?"

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

The Rise of Low-Alcohol Cocktails in 2024

In 2024, low-alcohol cocktails are making a significant splash in the beverage industry. As consumers become more health-conscious and seek mindful drinking options, low-alcohol cocktails offer a delightful alternative without sacrificing flavor or experience.

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

Wedding Trends for 2025: What’s Hot in Bars, Catering, Decor, and More

As we step into 2025, the wedding industry is brimming with fresh ideas and evolving trends that reflect couples' desires for personalized, meaningful celebrations. From unique bar setups to creative catering options and innovative decor, here’s what you can expect to see dominating weddings in the coming year.

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

Take Flight with On The Fly Tapsters' Aviation-Themed Cocktails

At On The Fly Tapsters, we’re always ready to take your events to new heights. Our latest collection of aviation-themed cocktails is inspired by Nathan Cumming, the co-owner of our company and an Army aviation officer. Curated by the legendary mixologist Brian Van Flandern, these drinks are designed to make your taste buds soar.

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Jennifer Cumming Jennifer Cumming

On The Fly Tapsters Gets a Fresh Look!

We're thrilled to unveil the brand-new website for On The Fly Tapsters! Our previous site served us well, but it's time for an upgrade that reflects our growth and commitment to delivering top-notch service.

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