Relax Concierge - Linen Rental, Crib Rental, Towel Rental, Beach Gear Rental in NJ

We've Moved (Virtually)

2013-12-02T06:29:00.002-05:00

Thank you to all our followers who have viewed our posts on Blogger. Our blog can now be viewed at www.relaxconcierge.com/blog. Its so nice to have everything in one spot! We look forward to providing you with lots of great posts about vacationing at the Jersey Shore.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2013-11-29T15:56:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

We are so thankful to have such wonderful customers and a wonderful team. Wishing you a wonderful and relaxing holiday!

Hotel Stay With The Kiddo

2013-11-22T19:34:00.001-05:00

We've been in Philly all week and stayed in a suite with my mom and my one year old kiddo. There was definitely a lot to pack for our stay. Relax was very helpful in providing some items for the stay.

Here are a few things we brought:

Relax Booster Seat - This worked out good for meals in the room. It didnt take up much space and was a good chair for the kiddo to sit in while playing every so often.

Relax Stroller - The BOB was once again one of our favorite things for our stay. It was so easy to stroll down the streets and navigate through Center City. We made sure to bring a lock when visiting restaurants.

Relax Pack and Play - The hotel said they offered cribs but now-a-days a "hotel crib" is really just a pack and play. They made it nice with a sheet and 2 cuddle blankets but we brought our own pack and play since it wasnt too hard to pack.

Relax Bath Tub - The hotel had a tub with their shower but I find tubs a little weird in hotels. Our tub was just fine. We even brought a few fun bath toys in addition to the soap and shampoo.

Bin of Toys - Both my mom and I brought a bin of fun toys and books for the kiddo to play with. He especially loved playing with the mega blocks, cars, some quiet musical instruments, stickers and elmo. The bin also has a few of his DVDs for the laptop.

Comfy Blanket For The Floor - This was nice for the kiddo to play on instead of the hotel carpet.

Safety Plugs and Cabinet Latches - The room had a lot of outlets and the kid loves to play with them at home but we came prepared. We brought lots of duct tape too for those cabinets that arent easy to child proof.

Food options - It was nice to have a kitchen since we didnt plan to go out to eat often. We planned for lots of snacks, fruit, veges, juice and milk. The hotel was so nice to include a full breakfast and dinner every day to make meals somewhat easier.

Once upon a time I was the business traveler only checking in with my laptop bag and small travel bag. For this trip we needed the luggage cart !

Please Touch

2013-11-22T01:49:00.001-05:00

One of the exhibits had lots of cool adirondack chairs

We had a great time today visiting the Please Touch Museum in Philly. I don't know who loved it the most: my one year old, my mom or I. The kiddo is at a great age for playing with a lot of things. He loved the slide, tunnel and camping setup in the first exhibit, taking a ride on carousel, playing with the tea set in the Alice in wonderland exhibit and also packing a shopping cart at the shop rite store. Who knew he loves grocery shopping. Maybe well enlist him for relax orders:)

The kiddo having fun with the grocery store

Vacationer tip. It's not necessarily something you'd visit If going to the shore. But if you are including Philly and the shore in your stay - your young kids would love it. The museum is located kinda close to the zoo so it's best to travel by car. We went on a weekday after school so it was not crowded at all.

Trip Down Memory Lane

2013-11-20T15:21:00.001-05:00

I am staying in Philly this week and spending a lot of time in University City. While walking the UPENN campus, I thought back on the days before Relax. I spent 3 years working on the campus in the IT group leading campus wide systems projects for students and faculty. I had the opportunity to take a series of courses at Wharton for Entrepreneurship and also in their Small Business Development Center (SBDC). I can remember back to forming the concept and presenting different parts of my business plan to the class throughout the semester. So many things have changed since then but so many have just as I envisioned it back then. I look forward to meeting with the SBDC again soon to provide them with an update and start planning our next steps together.

Cyber Monday Deals

2013-11-19T07:01:00.000-05:00

While it may be a little early to fully get into the Christmas shopping spirit, we love a good deal when we can get one. Our rental items and services are great gifts for your loved ones! A Relax gift certificate will definitely make your loved

one excited for your upcoming vacation and relaxed to know we are there to make it more enjoyable! For any gift certificate or reservations for next season over $50, we'd be happy to include one free L'Occitane toiletry set (a $10 value). hen booking online, please use coupon code CYBERTOILETRIES . Offer is only good for one toiletry set per purchase. Offer is valid on Cyber Monday, December 1st 2013. Visit www.relaxconcierge.com today. A peppermint mocha is next on my list to kick off the holiday fun!

I Don't Know How She Does It

2013-11-17T15:34:00.001-05:00

I had a little time this week to watch a movie! Hip hip hooray for me. I can't say I saw a whole movie but I'll take what I can get. I watched "I Don't Know How She Does It" with Sara Jessica Parker and Pierce Brosnin.

I could relate to SJP's character more in this movie than SITC:) I can't say I work full time with 2 kids. I have 1 kid and work like crazy in the summer.

I had a few relax thoughts while watching it. She had the same pack and play that we rent. Good choice! Also - I thought she could have totally used Relax for baby equipment when they went on vacation. Their car was packed with baby stuff.

While this movie may not be "real", the reality is that many women really do so much in their work and family life. We are here to make it easier so they can spend more time enjoying moments with their families.

The Possibilities Are Endless

2013-11-13T11:17:00.000-05:00

While we may always have summer on our minds, we are excited that the cold weather will soon bring the Super Bowl.

We 've been in contact with destination management and event planning companies to start coordinating events and home rentals. Yesterday we heard from a Yacht Rental company. How fun would it be to stay on a yacht for the week of the Super Bowl!

Relax Concierge is Ready For Your Next Event!
Let Relax Concierge enhance your next sporting event or home rental with our premium rental items and services. We deliver to event locations and rental properties in NJ.
Our offerings include:
Outdoor - Beach Chairs, Tailgating Games, Coolers, Carts ...
Home - Margarita Machines, Blenders, Video Game Consoles, Folding Chairs, Tables ...
Bed - Egyptian Cotton Linens, Pillows, Blankets ...
Bath - Bath Towels, Robes, Toiletries ...
Baby - Cribs, Strollers, High Chairs, Pack and Plays ...
Services - Concierge, Personal Shopping ... (Additional rental items, services and products for purchase available.)

Got plans for the Big Game? We are an approved vendor of Super Bowl XLVIII. Planning a party? Our outdoor items are perfect for your next outdoor or indoor tailgate. Renting out a field for a private sporting event? Our towels know lockers rooms at stadiums including Met Life Stadium. Renting a home instead of staying at a hotel? Our bed and bath items make your stay similar to visiting a fine resort.

For more information or for event pricing, please visit www.relaxconcierge.com or call 609-601-5077.

First Snowflakes of the Season

2013-11-12T14:11:00.000-05:00

There is nothing like seeing the first snowflakes of the winter season. Whether it be in the city, in the suburbs or at the beach, the first flurries are definitely a beautiful sight... A beautiful sight yes but they are definitely a precursor to what is to come. Brr.

We saw the first snowflakes at the beach in Manasquan this morning. We went on our morning walk at 6ish and felt a little warm in my fleece and hat. By the time I got to Seawatch the wind was blowing and the temperatures dropped. By the time I got home it was snowing.

Instead of making hot chocolate, I went right to work on plans for Relax next Summer. We are looking at new and exciting ways to get the word out about Relax! If you have any suggestions, let us know. Nothing beats the cold than thoughts next Summer. I'll definitely be getting that hot chocolate later today.

Towels, Towels and More Towels

2013-11-10T22:34:00.003-05:00

Today was a great day for our towels. We received a large order from a repeat client for a special event held at various locations in NJ. I was excited to do the drop off and pick up at one of the locations. I had the pleasure of meeting some of the folks coordinating the event. Everyone was so nice and it was so early in the morning.

We'd love to work with you for your next event. We have a wide range of rental items including towels, linens, beach gear, etc. The event options are endless.... Maybe you are having an indoor or outdoor tailgate for the super bowl and need beach chairs and games. We have them! Maybe you are having a pool party and would like to provide beach towels. We have them. Contact us today for event pricing.

Small Business Saturday Is Just Around The Corner

2013-11-09T22:24:00.000-05:00

Relax Concierge is a proud supporter of American Express' Small Business Saturday. Come visit your favorite NJ Shore Town on November 30th to support your favorite small business.

Quiet Festival - Right up our alley

2013-11-07T09:15:00.004-05:00

Of the many events at the shore this weekend, the Ocean City Quiet Festival is at the top of our list. The goal of the festival is to reduce the hectic pace of modern life, the noise, confusion, speed and to foster a greater appreciation for natural things. Ocean City is the only location to actually have an event like this.

We are all for the Quiet Festival since many of our rental items promote quiet. Resting your head on one of our pillows, our baby cribs, watching the Tranquil Turtles, cuddling up under one of our comfy blankets, reading one of our books "Goodnight Beach or "Goodnight Ocean"... the list goes on.

Opening Ceremonies are on Friday, Nov. 8 with a Yawn Along Ensemble (yawn to the tune of Beautiful Dreamer) and also an open poetry reading. On Saturday there will be a Quiet Pet Contest, a performance by quiet magician, free cartoons for kids of their favorite animal, a harpist and get this... the Snore at the Shore, the world's only quiet snoring contest. On Sunday, everyone is to create their own quiet! Too cute.... For Information on the Quiet Festival, call (609) 525-9300, after hours and on weekends (609) 364-4010 or emailmsoifer@hotmail.com.

NJ Tourism Recommends Concierge Services For Super Bowl

2013-11-06T09:23:00.000-05:00

We thought this was a great article discussing preparations for the upcoming Super Bowl at Met Life Stadium on February 2nd. Visit NJ recommends many great things to do for the Big Game. They also recommended using concierge services to help with your stay!

Relax Concierge is ready to make your Super Bowl stay more relaxing and enjoyable. We are an approved vendor for the Super Bowl XLVIII. We are working with many vacation homes all over NJ to provide our premium rental items to guests. We can't wait!

http://www.visitnj.org/super-bowl-2014

Full circle

2013-11-05T11:03:00.001-05:00

Way back in my consultant days I worked on system implementations for the government. I found the materials management and procurement process to be very interesting. I still remember many of the acronyms!

I am thrilled to report that Relax is now a vendor that will be listed in one of these government systems. We look forward to submitting for government contracts in the future under the linen supply NAICS category:)

It's amazing how things go full circle.

Ocean City

2013-11-03T17:22:00.001-05:00

We had a great day at our Ocean City location. It's crazy to see a lot our inventory in the store and not currently out on vacation. I have to admit I love it when everything is out with our guests.

There's more room to move too:)

We were excited to put together a large order for a client next week. This order is for about as many towels a person would use in a year!

We love November at the shore

2013-11-02T15:01:00.001-04:00

November marks a new season for many of us at the jersey shore. It definitely isn't swimsuit season. It's the "dogs allowed on beach" season. It's nice to see more people out walking on the beach now that their best friend can join them.

We were fortunate to enjoy the first day on the beach with both our pup and kiddo. Thanks to our bob stroller too for trekking through the sand!

Vacationer tip: dogs are usually only allowed on the beach during winter months. However, many towns have dog beaches or have hours were dogs are permitted. The dog beach north of Oc is great and stone harbor also has evening hours where dogs are allowed.

Happy Halloween From The Jersey Shore

2013-10-31T05:04:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloween from the Jersey Shore.

We love this creative decorating idea with painted clam shells from the beach. They are always creating a scene based on the time of year. My other favorite is the back to school design.

Treasure Island Pumpkin Picking

2013-10-27T11:40:00.001-04:00

We had a great day pumpkin picking on Treasure Island (aka Osborn Island). Treasure Island is located on the Manasquan River between Brielle and Point Pleasant.

My sister Katie w the kiddo.

It is believed that Robert Louis Stevenson wrote his famous novel Treasure Island about this location. According to wikipedia, Stevenson spent about a month in Brielle along the Manasquan River. One day Stevenson visited Osborn Island and was so impressed he whimsically re-christened it "Treasure Island" after his famous novel Treasure Island (1883) and carved his initials into a bulkhead. This took place five years after he had completed the novel. To this day, many still refer to the island as such.

The kiddo made sure to dress up like a pirate for his first visit to the island.

The Manasquan water taxi took us there from the Brielle Yacht Club. While on the boat, we enjoyed a free drink, received pirate bandanas and listened to some fun fall music.

Pumpkin picking on Treasure Island

Upon arriving on the island, our tour guide brought us through the woods and pointed out exciting things like sarsaparilla( what root beer is made from). At the end of the island we all congregated around the tire swing and piñata. We talked about our halloween costumes and picked out pumpkins.

On the way back, we even went crabbing!

What a great way to spend a Fall day! We got a free water taxi season pass too in the event we want to hit the area bars next summer.

Tip: The boat ride wasn't sold out but it is recommended that you make a reservation. Bring a light jacket because it gets a little windy and chilly on the water. Also bring a little snack.

When on vacation we get towels too

2013-10-23T21:42:00.001-04:00

It was interesting to get towels delivered to our villa for our vacation. It's not how we deliver our items, but then again, there is only one Relax Concierge.

Vacationer tip: Bring your own lock box

2013-10-22T11:40:00.001-04:00

After spending a week in a villa of over 20 adults, we were always left asking "who has a key?". Since the group didn't do every activity together it was sometimes hard to coordinate keys. In some cases we kept the doors unlocked.

I definitely don't recommend leaving doors unlocked. We were fortunate to not have any issues but we were lucky.

In the future I plan to bring a lockbox to our next vacation. We will provide our family and friends with the code so we can rest assured our belongings will be secured and everyone can come and go as they please.

We rent beach stuff too when on vacation

2013-10-21T09:11:00.001-04:00

While visiting the beach in Positano we had to rent some beach equipment to fully enjoy ourselves. We rented 4 lounge chairs and 2 umbrellas for about 2 hours. It wound up costing 30 euro for the time but I think it was totally worth it. Our rates are so different and you keep the items for a week!!!

We did order some pizza to go from my favorite spot, chez black,

and my sister got us some coronas (haha). It was probably the most relaxing we did during the trip.

Baby rental items for our vacation

2013-10-21T03:17:00.001-04:00

Prior to traveling this past week we looked into some baby rental options in positano. We were hoping to rent some items that were similar to what we rent to our guests. We brought our umbrella stroller, baby back pack and car seat. Of the relax items, we brought the baby monitor.

We were looking to rent a crib, play yard and a high chair but didn't find anything. I can make it work without a crib but I definitely missed the play yard and the high chair. We had lots of folks to hold him he was on the loose a lot:) the monitor did help me relax a bit while he was napping.

it was our luck that the airline messed up our bags and didn't send the car seat or the baby back pack until mid week. Ugh! Fortunately our driver brought a car seat just in case. Thank you Giovanni! I don't know what I would have done if he didn't have one.

I spent some time researching back carriers vs strollers before our trip and thought I had it covered. Our uppa baby g-luxe umbrella stroller worked out great when not taking the stairs. That probably accounted for 50% of our time in positano. It had to be carried by someone the other 50% of the time. There was one day where I had to do the stairs (let's say 15 stair cases) alone w the baby and stroller. It wasn't impossible but it was not easy!

We purchased the kelty 3 baby back carrier before the trip after reading lots of reviews. I never used it. It was too much pressure on my lower back and I couldn't figure out how I'd handle the incline /decline of the

stairs w my 25lb baby on my back. It may just have been me because a lot of men didn't seem to have any issue with the back carriers. It did work out just great in the airport. The baby loved it too! The flat terrain seemed to make the difference for my back. I would have brought my baby bjorn if the kiddo wasn't too tall for it. That seemed like the way to go for most women I saw.

If I were to do it all over again I'd probably buy the ergo baby carrier. A friend let be borrow hers after my brothers wedding reception. We had a long walk from hotel puppetto through town and then onto the bus. In all the wedding fun, someone forgot the stroller at the villa so I carried the baby down the mountain, through town and to the beautiful yet very challenging walk to the reception. The ergo baby carrier seemed to fit him well, he stayed asleep for the trek and I had my hands free. I'd still like to see if he would enjoy it while awake but that was a huge help!

Vacation tips

2013-10-18T08:13:00.001-04:00

We haven't taken a vacation in a very long time. We've been away this week for my brothers wedding in Italy. Her family did an amazing job booking a villa for all the guests to enjoy for the week. We are so blessed to have had the opportunity to get to know her family.

They did so many thoughtful things at the house - in addition to planning the main event.

We've worked with many families planning events such as weddings and reunions. We thought you would enjoy some of these ideas:

Welcome bags- we received gorgeous personalized bags in our rooms upon our arrival. The bags included an itinerary for main events, info on the wedding couple and party, a pillow, lotion, local guide book, etc.

Fruit and some snacks - after a weary travel day this was great to enjoy as soon as we arrived.

Room assignments- this is probably very important to know upon arrival if there is a large group and varying bed sizes.

Family dinner- Italy may be known for their food but I will always remember the dinner we had at the house on the first night. My dad cooked up some speghitti and meatballs. Delicious.

Packing ideas - Part 3

2013-10-15T05:27:00.001-04:00

I'm starting to now believe that duct tape is definitely the answer for traveling. There is so many things you can do with it. In my case I knew traveling with a very curious one year old would be somewhat challenging and that my safety items may not fit in our luggage or may not work at the house.

We used duct tape in the house to:

Cover the stove knobs... They were so close to his level compared to American made stoves.

Keep drawers closed... Especially the ones below the sink and ones with glass items.

Keep doors closed. My lo loves handles. The house we are in has some big doors that could easily hurt a toe or finger.

Cover outlet. I only own us outlet protectors and don't have adapters for the protectors - ha:)

Mark our luggage. With lots of colors in stock - our teal duct tape makes it easy to identify in a sea of black bags.

A project for the lo. He loves stickers so duct tape keeps him occupied if we make a piece somewhat easy to take off.

If you have some vacating tips using duct tape we'd love to hear about them.

Packing ideas part 2

2013-10-12T09:20:00.001-04:00

Here's one of our packing ideas when traveling with a baby...particularly a baby that likes to get into everything.

We put his clothes in zip lock bags and organized by outfit. This way we can just pick up the bags should he get into the luggage and if e don't have a dresser with drawers above his reach. This will also help when family members want to help get him changed or when on the go

I wish I did that with my bag.