JDK News

JDK’S “ICE MAGIC” PORTRAYED IN MID-ATLANTIC EVENTS MAGAZINE

May 2008: Essential Party Rentals displayed its Ice Magic product line at the 2008 Fresh Event sponsored by the International Special Events Society (ISES) at Harrah’s Chester Casino and Racetrack on March 26, 2008. Ice Magic, JDK’s newest rental product line, refers to an innovative line of acrylic cocktail tables, chairs, couches, and design set pieces that are illuminated utilizing patented wireless LED lighting. Ice Magic products were proudly displayed in several photographs throughout the May issue of Mid-Atlantic Events Magazine. Mid-Atlantic Events Magazine is a bimonthly publication focused on Hospitality in the Mid-Atlantic USA.

WEDDINGS BY JDK

May 2008: The JDK Group announces plans to open a new wedding division. The new division will feature the most comprehensive list of wedding services available by one vendor in the Central PA Market. Already well-known for its catering division, JDK has developed superior skills in other areas that it believes can benefit their clients. The new wedding division will include coordination services, event planning, entertainment booking, floral arrangements, event design, lighting, concierge services, professional staffing, and catering. Jennifer Delaye, JDK’s CEO, states “our business continues to re-invent itself. My excitement continues to grow as plans move forward on the latest re-invention of JDK.”

DELAYE SELECTED AS FIRST VICE PRESIDENT OF ICA

April 2008: “Three years ago, I made it a goal to have my company recognized on a national level” states JDK’s CEO, Jennifer Delaye. “My selection as First Vice President to the International Caterers Association (ICA) is yet another step towards achieving this goal”. Delaye and several other JDK employees have been asked to speak at numerous conferences around the country throughout 2008.

DELAYE TO CO-CHAIR $4 MILLION CAMPAIGN

April 2008: Jennifer Delaye, CEO of the JDK Group, has been nominated as Co-Chair of the 2008 CREDC Campaign to raise 4 million. Together with Bob Manning from the Quandel Group, they are challenged to secure continuous funding for this important and essential organization in Central PA region. The Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), the economic development arm of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber, is the leading organization for promoting and performing economic development activities in Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry counties."

DELAYE FEATURED IN PATRIOT NEWS – “AS I SEE IT”

March 2008: Read about what Delaye has to say about opportunities for business women.

ESSENTIAL PARTY RENTALS JOINS PRESTIGE EVENTS SOCIETY

April 2008: Essential Party Rentals, a division of the JDK Group, recently joined the International Special Events Society (ISES, Washington, D.C. Chapter). Delaye states that “membership into this group was critical for networking with other event professionals in the party rental and design arena outside of the Central PA marketplace. We have already experienced dividends from our membership!” Find out more about ISES.

DELAYE CHAIRS SUCCESSFUL WOMENS BUSINESS FORUM

March 2008: The 14th Annual Business Women’s Forum was attended by over 1,000 guests. As the chair of the event, JDK CEO, Jennifer Delaye, volunteered for the position because of her belief in the business community of our region. The event feature several dozen high profile sponsors and speakers from the mid-state area. Check out Jennifer’s event blog.

ESSENTIAL PARTY RENTALS SELECTED AS DESIGN SPONSOR FOR UCP’S 22ND ANNUAL MAGIC NIGHT

March 1, 2008: For over a half a century, United Cerebral Palsy has been meeting the needs of individuals of all ages with all types of disabilities and special needs. On March 29, 2008, UCP will hold its 22nd annual White Tie event, Magic Night Gala, which includes a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception, silent and live auctions, and entertainment. Media sponsor is ABC27. Essential Party Rentals will provide the magical ambience for the evening utilizing their new line of Ice Magic rental décor. Live music and dancing provided by the Chatterband.

EVERY PARTY NEEDS A LITTLE MAGIC!

March 1, 2008: The JDK Group announces the purchase of Ice Magic Distributorship for its party rental division. Ice Magic refers to an innovative line of acrylic cocktail tables, chairs, couches, and design set pieces that are illuminated utilizing patented wireless LED lighting. JDK CEO, Jen Delay, states that “we are so excited to bring on the Ice Magic line of event rental décor. Our primary market will be in the Washington D.C., Baltimore and Philadelphia territories”. JDK hired two rental sales associate to manage the Ice Magic line. Check out Ice Magic product pictures or contact us for a demo at 877-277-0793.

JDK GROUP’S BUSINESS PROFILE FEATURED IN “717: THE SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY’S MAGAZINE”:

March 1 2008: 717 is one of Central PA’s newest publications. Check out JDK’s complete business profile on page 23. 717businessprofile.pdf.

DELAYE PRESENTS AT INTERNATIONAL CATERSOURCE EVENT

Feb. 26, 2008: Jen Delaye and a team of JDK designers recently attended the ICA/Event Solutions Conference in Las Vegas. The educational conference is attended by thousands of event and catering professionals from all over the world. Delaye was asked to present at the conference in front of an audience of 500, where she demonstrated her company’s successful vertical integration strategy.

JDK DESIGNERS RECOGNIZED AT ICA WITH STAR AWARDS

Feb. 26, 2008: JDK’s David Everett, event planner and designer, and Erika Hegedus, in-house designer, were presented STAR Awards at a recent Event Solutions gala in recognition of their dedication and hard work to the catering profession. Congrats to the both!

JDK PARTNERS IN PREMIER BRIDAL SHOW AT PETER ALLEN MANSION

Feb 1. 2008: Harrisburg Magazine and Love 98.9FM are hosting the Grande Premier Bridal Show at the award winning Peter Allen House on April 27, 2008. The JDK Group will present a whole room designated as the “Idea Factory”, where JDK’s IMAGINE division will showcase their WOW! Factor. Brides will have a chance to visit with dozens of caterers, wedding vendors, and event planners to discuss the latest trends in weddings for 2008-2009. For more information, visit www.pbharrisburg.com/shows.php.

JDK DESIGNER SELECTED FOR THE SUMMER OLYMPICS

Jan. 1, 2008: David Everett has accepted an offer by a US Catering Firm as an event designer for several American corporate clients entertaining guests in Beijing for the upcoming summer Olympics. Everett states “WOW! What an honor and privilege for me. I plan on showcasing some of my Olympic quality design skills!”. Everett will be dedicating almost five weeks to this event.

JDK FEATURED ON THE WEDDING WIRE AND THE KNOT

Jan. 25, 2008: JDK recently joined two of the best internet Wedding portals; the Wedding Wire and The Knot. Clients are encouraged to visit each site and view a comprehensive listing of JDK’s services, including catering, event rentals and event planning and design pages.

DAVID EVERETT FEATURED IN ICA PUBLICATION – HOLIDAY EDITION

Nov. 1, 2007: Want to know what works when decorating for the holidays? David Everett was recently interviewed for an article in the International Caterers Association publication. Read “Hot Holidays” and find out what David is recommending for this year and next!

JDK INTRODUCES NEW CORPORATE MENU

Nov. 1, 2007: JDK introduced its new 2008-2009 corporate menu. The menu includes new luncheon packages, including an executive meeting package. In addition, the new menu includes new menu items as well as changes to JDK’s standard terms and policies. We invite you to new menu check out the new menu and let us know your thoughts.

JDK REACHES TWENTY YEAR MILESTONE

Nov. 1, 2007: In 1987, three siblings, Jennifer, Drew, and Kirsten Miller, opened up concession stands on Harrisburg’s City Island. What started out as a summer job to raise college cash continues to thrive today as a multimillion dollar catering and event services company. Read the article featured in the PA Business Journal Special Edition!

JDK DESIGNER, DAVID EVERETT, WINS NATIONAL AWARD

Oct. 1, 2007: After being nominated for the second straight year, David Everett won the International Caterers Association (ICA) “Rising Star” award. As part of the honor, David will provide seminars and demonstrations during the ICAs February 2008 trade show in Las Vegas. Read more about this prestigious award

JEN DELAYE SPEAKS TO AUDIENCE AT CHAMBER’S WOMEN IN BUSINESS ROUNDTABLE

Sept 1, 2007: Delaye joined Leroy Kline, CEO of Delta Development Group, and Frank Fritsch, executive VP of HR for Select Medical Group, in a roundtable discussion of how to take your company from good ideas to great execution. View the full article (PDF)

JDK UNVEILS HOLIDAY PARTY TIPS IN SEPTEMBER ISSUE OF B2B MAGAZINE

Sept 5, 2007: Mixing business and holiday pleasure can be a difficult job. However, Drew Miller, CFO of JDK Catering, Inc., and other event planners offer great advice for planning a creative, festive holiday party this season in the September issue of B2B. View the full article (PDF)

JDK Catering Featured on Senator Pat Vance’s Monthly TV Show

July 30, 2007: JDK Catering, Inc. received the honor of being a feature story on State Senator Pat Vance’s monthly cable TV show. Senator Vance represents Cumberland and York counties. The shoot took place on July 23, 2007 and will be aired at various times on local channel PCN. Watch the show on Senator Vance’s website.

It’s Alive!
JDK Unveils New Party Rental Website

July 30, 2007: We think this may be JDK’s hottest design for 2007. Essential Party Rentals, a division of the JDK Group, announces the unveiling of its new web site at www.essentialpartyrentals.com. Check out the party tips, pictures, and ordering guides that will help even the novice party planner become a pro!

JDK Awarded Best of Best for Fourth Straight Year

Aug. 1, 2007: Simply the Best Caterer 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2007 as voted on by the readers of Harrisburg Magazine. Delaye thanks readers, clients and staff – “I am honored to receive this award for the fourth straight year. However, I receive it on behalf of the extremely dedicated and talented staff I am fortunate to work with”. JDK event designers will support in the design of this year’s “Simply the Best” awards ceremony.

JDK JOINS CARLISLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

July 12, 2007: In preparation for expansion into new markets, JDK recently joined the Carlisle Chamber of Commerce. Jen Delaye states “I am too excited for this opportunity to offer our services to the Carlisle and surrounding markets!” With the opening of its party rental division and event design and production divison, JDK feels strong that it can bring the “WOW!” factor to this market in time for Christmas. JDK was recently named the exclusive caterer for Carlisle’s hottest new venue — The Old Ribbon Mill.

CHECK OUT JDK’S HOTTEST NEW VENUE: THE OLD RIBBON MILL, CARLISLE

July 1, 2007: The Old Ribbon Mill is a venue unlike any other. Its structure is similar to that of a New York City loft, spacious with hard wood floors, high ceilings, lots of windows offering a rare and exciting atmosphere for your next business meeting, social function, or wedding reception. Don’t wait to tie up your date, call now for more information on JDK’s hottest new venue. More about the Old Ribbon Mill

JDK ENDS THREE-YEAR CONTRACT WITH FARM SHOW COMPLEX

July 1, 2007: On June 29, JDK finished its three-year term for catering and concessions at the PA State Farm Show Complex. While the contract called for an additional two one-year renewal periods, Jen Delaye decided not to renew based on partnership issues with a concessionaire vendor out of Boston.

VOTING BEGINS FOR NATIONAL AWARD!

May 30, 2007: David Everett received the honor of being nominated for a 2007 Event Solutions Spotlight Award. Event Solutions is a national organization dedicated to the advancement of the catering and event planning industry. This is Mr. Everett’s second straight nomination for the “Rising Star” category. We encourage David’s clients to log on and vote for him to receive this prestigious award.Read the full press release

JDK RECOGNIZES GRADUATING STAFF

May 2007: Congrats to the following employees on their upcoming graduation! College - Kim Koch, High School - Jeff England, Eric Flook, Augie Taliani, Ryan McGill. We wish them all much success as they move ahead in life.

DELAYE FEATURED IN MAY/JUNE ISSUE OF CATERSOURCE MAGAZINE

May 2007: As a newly elected board member of the International Caterers Association, Delaye and JDK are featured iin the May/June Issue. Download the full article

JDK PRESS RELEASE

April 2007: Believe It or Not, You Really Can Have it All! Read the full article

JDK WEDDING PLANNERS CITED IN PA BUSINESS JOURNAL ARTICLE

April 2007 Download the full article

JDK Catering, Inc. Receives Two National Awards

April 2007: JDK Catering owner and president, Jennifer Delaye, announced that her company has recently been named as one of the country’s Top 100 Diversity-Owned Businesses by Diversity.com. In addition, JDK will be featured as one of the fastest-growing companies in the Eating Places industry by the Inc. 5000 Awards Committee (Inc. Magazine).

JDK Catering Performs at Governor Rendell’s Inauguration Bash

January 2007: JDK Catering was selected to provide food and beverage services at Gov. Rendell’s inauguration. The event was attended by over 5,000 guests, including Frankie Valli and Bon Jovi as featured performers. The entire event included over 180 JDK employees, including 35 carvers, 25 bartenders, 50 professional servers, 4 chefs, 18 line cooks, and 5 bakery staff. JDK’s event planners performed many aspects of the overall design and décor for the entire evening.

Jen Delaye to be featured in National Publication!

March 2007: JDK Catering owner, Jen Delaye, will be featured in the May/June upcoming issue of Catersource Magazine, a National publication directed to catering industry professionals.

JDK Announces Opening of New Party Rental Division

March 07: JDK will open a full service party rental and supply division in May 2007. ESSENTIAL Party Rentals by JDK will provide tables, chairs, dishware, glassware, specialty linens, and food service equipment. This division will also display unique items not available in this market, such as themed props and décor. For example, JDK currently owns a 10’ pirate ship and 15’ foot castle that are used as displays for many of their catering jobs. JDK also boasts over 100 different styles of linens, which will also be available to rent. The company’s future plans include rental supplies and materials for the trade show industry.

JDK’s Lead Event Planner Nominated for International Award

March 12, 2007: David Everett received the honor of being nominated for a 2007 Event Solutions Spotlight Award. Event Solutions is a national organization dedicated to the advancement of the catering and event planning industry. This is Mr. Everett’s second straight nomination for the “Rising Star” category.

JDK Announces Fourth Straight Year of Double Digit Growth

February 07: JDK’s CFO, Drew Miller, announced that JDK posted sales of $2.8M in 2006 representing a 16% increase over 2005. Since 2003, JDK has increased sales by more than 16% each year, including a 32% increase in 2005. Company owner Jen Delaye credits the company’s success to the quality of her employees. She states “in order to execute flawlessly, you must hire and retain quality employees”. New ideas for 2007 include a full service rental company set to open in late spring 2007.

JDK’s Owner Elected to National Board

January 2007: Jennifer Delaye has been elected to the board of the International Caterers Association for a 3-year term. Mrs. Delaye worked hard to gain national exposure of JDK Catering. She looks forward to this opportunity as a chance to make a difference in the catering industry and being part of the best in the country.

JDK sends staff to National Catering Conference in Las Vegas

January 07: For the fourth straight year, JDK sent five employees to the National Catering Conference, which was hosted in Las Vegas. The conference included a trade show and five days of intense classes. Some of the largest names in the catering, event planning, and food and beverage industries attend this show each year. JDK attends this conference to unveil cutting edge and innovative food and themed ideas in the Central PA Market.

David Everett Receives National Recognition!

June 06: JDK is proud to announce their own Event Planner and Designer, David Everett, as one of six finalists for the 2006 Raising Star Award sponsored by Event Solutions Magazine. Out of over one hundred applicants, David is recognized for his extraordinary talent to imagine a dream, create a masterpiece, and guide his clients through the planning process. Show your support of David and JDK Catering by casting your vote for David Everett for the Raising Star Awards presented by Event Solutions Magazine.Download the full article

JDK “Wowed” Commerce Bank with a Stunning Grand Opening Reception

May 06: Commerce Bank employees celebrated the Grand Opening of the Commerce Center on Paxton Street on May 10, 2006. With a 120ft by 40ft tent seen clearly by drivers on I-83, JDK Catering created a breathtaking atmosphere for the 600 guests to peruse the tent and tour the new multi-floored Commerce Center. From a vibrantly colored sushi station to mouthwatering miniature desserts, from bright Commerce-Red interior and exterior tent décor to intricately designed hors d'oeuvres, JDK “Wowed” the guests and delighted the client.Download Photo Gallery

JDK Catering: We’re Moving!

May 06: JDK to move to larger facilities in Camp Hill. On May 15, JDK completed its purchase of a 16,500 sq ft facility to house its entire catering and event planning operations. Located in the borough of Camp Hill and situated along Rte 581, the new facility will offer great visibility for the various new divisions JDK plans on opening, including a party rental division and an event design division. The new facility includes over 12,000 sq ft of warehouse and kitchen space and over 4,000 sq ft of finished office space. JDK has begun renovations and plans on moving to the new location in the end of July.Download the full article

Jennifer Delaye Selected to Serve on Two Harrisburg Boards

May 06: JDK Catering owner and president, Jennifer Delaye, was appointed as a new member of the Graystone Bank’s Capital Region Board. Delaye was also honored to join the Harrisburg Regional Chamber Board of Directors to continue her service to the Harrisburg area.

JDK Catering Named Small Business of the Year by Harrisburg Regional Chamber.

Dec 05: Jennifer Delaye was most graciously awarded Small Business of the Year for 2005. “If you [Jen] can do that, you can do anything—if you do it well” — Char Magaro, former owner of Magaro’s Restaurant.Download the full article.

Central PA Business Journal Names JDK Small Business of the Year for 2005

Dec 05: “It’s about creating a memorable experience for guests.” — Jennifer DelayeDownload the full article

JDK Awarded “Best of Show” at the PA Chamber Expo at PA Farm Show

Nov 05: Voted Best of Show - By expressing our holiday theme of “A Crazy Christmas” with bright, exuberant colors, fabrics and festive food, JDK sets the traditional holiday themes on their ear.

JDK Awarded Best of Best for Second Straight Year

Oct 05: Simply the Best Caterer 2002, 2004, & 2005 as voted on by the readers of Harrisburg Magazine

JDK Awarded “Best of Show” at the West Shore Chamber of Commerce Business & Industry Night

Oct 05: Voted Best of Show – With an intricate, detailed and fun “Treasure Island” theme featuring our famous “Shiver Me Timbers Punch” JDK proves that elegance can be fun and progressive.

JDK Featured in Central Penn Business Journal Business Profiles Edition

Aug 05: JDK continues to strive for excellence in cuisine and customer service.Download the full article