It’s hard to believe that the holiday season is just around the corner. That means it’s almost time for fun and festivities! Company holiday parties are an annual tradition in many organizations. They offer a unique opportunity for employees to interact outside the formal environment of the workplace, celebrate the year’s achievements, and strengthen bonds with their colleagues.
Planning a holiday party takes foresight, creativity, and organization. If you have the honor of planning your company holiday party this year, here are some tips on how to create a memorable event that your coworkers will surely appreciate and enjoy.
Set a Budget and Stick To It
Before you start making any decisions, know how much you can spend. Keep in mind that the budget should encompass everything from venue rental to decorations and food.
Choose an Appropriate Date and Time
The end of the year can be a busy time for everyone. When selecting a date, try to find a suitable date that works for most of the workforce. If you need to rent an event center or other party venue, don’t wait too long to reserve your date. Depending on the size of your group and the popularity of your chosen location, you may have to make a reservation several months or even up to a year in advance.
Select the Venue Carefully
Consider the number of people attending and find a venue that accommodates everyone comfortably. While office spaces or conference rooms can work for smaller companies, larger groups might be better suited at an event center, hotel ballroom, or even a restaurant.
Don’t Forget the Invitations
The invitations provide the initial impression of your celebration and can set the tone of your party. Choose a holiday-themed invitation design that matches your planned decorations for the party. Be sure to provide all the necessary information: the date, time, location, dress code, and whether guests are allowed to bring a plus one or kids.
Timing is essential when sending out invitations. For a holiday party, it’s recommended to send invitations several months before the event. This advanced notice allows your guests ample time to RSVP and avoid clashing with other festive commitments. If you want an eco-friendly and cost-effective method, consider sending digital invitations.
Set a Theme
Selecting a theme brings cohesiveness to your holiday party and makes it exciting and engaging. It sets the tone for your event and can be incorporated into invitations, decorations, costumes, food, and entertainment. Traditional holiday themes are always a hit, but you could also think outside of the box with non-traditional themes like a Winter Wonderland, Ugly Sweater Party, Holiday Movie Marathon, or a cuisines-of-the-world feast.
Plan the Menu
Food is a crucial part of any party, and a holiday party is no different. Plan a menu that compliments your theme and consider the dietary preferences of your guests. Catering to varied dietary needs by having vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options available can make your party more inclusive. Don’t forget to have a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages as well.
Include Interactive Activities
Parties are about participation, laughter, and fun! Interactive games and activities that involve all the guests can help bring liveliness and laughter to the party. Classic games like holiday movie trivia, a cookie decorating contest, or a white elephant gift exchange can get everyone involved and promote team bonding.
Choose the Right Entertainment
Entertainment can make or break a party—it is an integral part of setting an engaging, festive mood. For music, you can create a playlist that mirrors the holiday spirit or hire a DJ or live band. Another fun option to entertain guests is by incorporating games that cater to all ages. Games like charades with a holiday twist, a Secret Santa gift exchange, or a holiday-themed photo booth can lift the festive spirit and ignite interaction among the attendees.
Remember, the entertainment should reflect the audience. You’ll want to choose activities and music that appeal to everyone attending, so it’s helpful to know your guest’s preferences.
Pay Attention to Details
Small details like the decorations or quality of food can significantly impact the party experience. Another seemingly small, but very important detail that is often overlooked is parking. Adequate parking space is crucial, especially if you’re hosting a large group. So, how do you plan for and overcome any parking-related obstacles?
First, if you already have a selected venue, find out how much parking is available and whether or not they have valet services. Next, check local regulations for street parking in your area to avoid any mishaps. Finally, it might be a good idea to remind your guests to carpool or use a taxi service if parking is limited.
Also, consider the safety of your guests. If alcohol is served at the party, encourage guests to designate a driver or utilize rideshare apps for their safe return home.
Check Out Platte River Fort For Your Holiday Party
Looking for a Greeley event center to host your company holiday party? Platte River Fort is perfect for all types of gatherings from large corporate parties to smaller family get-togethers. Located just east of Greeley, Colorado, the Platte River Fort offers a unique blend of country charm and modern elegance, making it the ideal spot for your festivities. Call today to reserve your date!
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