It is that time of year again…time for the much anticipated (or dreaded) holiday office party. Having experienced a few holiday party flops, I thought I should blog on how to make yours a success.
Set the date
Planning a holiday party is much like any other event. Pick a date way in advance and worry about the details later. The holidays are the busiest time on everyone’s calendar so picking the date in advance allows people to plan around spouses, holiday recitals, family coming to town, and the list goes on and on.
Announce the date
Picking the date early is only effective if you let others in on your secret. Send out a “Save the Date” early and a reminder as the event gets closer. You may hear the occasional grumblings, “seriously, the holiday party already” but that is much better than “I wish I would have known before I booked my plane ticket home.”
Pick a venue
Sometimes this goes along with setting the date. If your office party occurs off site, you certainly want to book your venue with your date before publicizing. Your venue should reflect your office culture and certainly your budget. Don’t spend your entire budget on a fancy ballroom forgetting about the cost of food and drinks. If you plan a party on site, make sure to save some of your budget for decorations so your office party doesn’t feel like just another day at the office.
Plan the attire
Make known the expectations for attire and keep in mind the comfort level of your coworkers. After all, this is about them. If your office expectations are very relaxed, your holiday party should not be formal and vice versa. A small deviation from the norm is acceptable but you certainly wouldn’t want someone to have to buy a new suit just to attend the party.
Plan some entertainment
Holiday parties can be painfully boring. There is no need to hire a full band, rent a chocolate fountain and employ Santa and his team of reindeer; but do consider a theme, a fun game or at least some festive music.
Food and Drink
Do hire a reputable caterer and make sure there is enough food. Nothing makes people more unhappy than expecting food and not getting it. Also, make sure the drink situation is explained. Will there be a full bar, no bar, drink tickets? Make sure to consider non-alcoholic beverages options (perhaps sparkling cider) and drinks for the kids if invited. If the event is at night and drinks are being served, consider hiring a driving service to get people home safe or at the very least, volunteer to contact a taxi for those who need a ride.
These tips are just the basics. I’ve listed a few sources below for themed holiday office parties, fun games and food ideas. Imagine a “Christmas Story” or “Let it Snow” holiday party. Pull off one of those and you’ll be the talk of the office…at least until next year.
https://www.tastycatering.com/9-unique-company-holiday-party-themes/
https://www.punchbowl.com/p/office-holiday-party-games
https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/7316-gift-exchange-ideas.html
Be Merry!
Amy Lucke
About the author:
Amy Lucke decided long ago, she would never stray far from the mountains and rivers of Montana. She loves sharing the outdoors with her two kids and spends most summer weekends in a 3-person tent with her four person family. She feels fortunate that she gets to write, create and collaborate with the smart and talented women of Meetings Northwest. Little known fact: She once traveled for 4 months on an around-the-world plane ticket.
