Christmas work party tips
As the weather turns cooler, work chatter is likely to turn to one of the biggest nights of the year - the office Christmas party. Which someone still needs to plan, of course. If you have the honour this year, follow our tips for planning a bash that’s merry and bright.
1. Pick the date and time
Christmastime diaries fill up fast so it’s important to set a date and time for your work party as early as you can. Check when people are available and then settle on a date and time based on the group consensus. It doesn’t have to be really close to Christmas – there’s nothing wrong with a late November party if that’s what suits everyone. The point is to have fun.
2. Set the budget
Knowing and planning your budget upfront is essential to success. You don’t want to splash out on an amazing venue only to be left without cash for food and drinks. If your company is funding the ‘do’ ask for a clear budget to cover all costs, or if employees need to pay their own way, consider doing a poll to check how much they’re happy to spend.
Once you’ve determined your budget for your Christmas event, carefully split the amount over everything needed for the big day. It can be helpful to book a party package with everything included to get more bang for your buck.
3. Go with a theme
Wondering how to make your corporate Christmas event extra special? Try a theme. For a traditional take, you can opt for themes like winter wonderland, ugly sweaters or retro 80s. Or try something different like tropical Christmas luau or Victorian high tea. There’s a festive party theme to suit every business, so have fun with it! Just remember to put the dress code (or dress-up code) on the invites.
4. Decide on food and drinks
Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a sensational spread. It can be traditional, like roast turkey, veggies, gammon and wine, or be totally different, like sliders, samosas, fruit kebabs, and cocktails. Use your theme and what you know about your colleagues’ favourites to make your choice. Just remember to ask people about dietary requirements and provide some low or no alcohol drinks so everyone is catered for.
5. Think about entertainment
If you’re celebrating an amazing year, there are tonnes of ways to make your party really pop. Popcorn, coffee and Christmas cookie stands, for example, might be fun additions to your event. And carollers, a piano player, and even Father Christmas himself could be the cherry on top of an event well done. If you’re on a budget, a Christmas quiz or dance-off can liven things up.
6. Get the invites out ASAP!
Once you’ve got all the details ironed out for your office Christmas party, don’t forget to send out your invites. Preferably do it as early as possible, so everyone can add it to their calendar and plan around it. The more who can attend, the merrier!
If you’d like some help planning the perfect Christmas ‘do’ for your colleagues, get in touch today and let our expert team help. Contact our Central Events Desk on 020 3988 3660 or email [email protected]
