5 Tips to Planning the Perfect Company Holiday Party
With the holiday season just around the corner, it's time to start planning your company's holiday party. A well-organized holiday party is an enjoyable holiday party for everyone. It can boost employee morale, foster team spirit, and show your appreciation for a hardworking team. To ensure your event is a smashing success, here are five essential things you need to know when planning the best company holiday party.
Start Planning Early: The key to any successful event is to start planning early. Waiting until the last minute can lead to stress, limited options, and higher costs. Ideally, beginning to plan at least six to eight weeks ahead of the event date can help immensely. This will give you enough time to secure a venue, create a guest list, and make all necessary arrangements. Plus, it gives you some buffer for the eventual last-minute requests that come in.
Set and Stay Within a Budget: Before diving into the details, it's crucial to establish a clear budget with your team. Considering factors such as venue rental, refreshments, decorations, entertainment, and any additional expenses like transportation or party favors can help you understand the full picture. Once you have a budget in mind, stick to it to avoid overspending. Let vendors know what your budget is in the first conversation and let them tailor a package to match. Being mindful of your budget will help you make informed decisions throughout the planning process.
3. Choose the Right Venue: Selecting the right venue is a critical decision that can greatly impact the overall success of your holiday party. Is your team a bit fancier? Do they enjoy rooftops? Is it a small, intimate party or a big fiesta?
Considering the size of your guest list and the type of atmosphere you want to create can help save a lot of time when looking for the right spot. A cozy restaurant, an elegant banquet hall, or a themed venue can all be great options depending on your company culture and preferences.
Lastly, Ensure the venue is conveniently located for your employees and has ample parking or transportation options.
4. Plan Engaging Activities: A great company holiday party is more than just food and drinks. Plan engaging activities and entertainment to keep your employees entertained and create memorable experiences.
You can hire a DJ or band, or organize a photo booth or a gift exchange. Team-building games, award or talent shows, or mini-contests can be a great way to get everyone involved! Tailor the activities to suit the interests and preferences of your team to ensure everyone has a good time.
5. Consider Dietary Restrictions and Preferences: When planning the menu for your holiday party, take into account any dietary restrictions and preferences among your employees. Ensure there are options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with allergies. Offering a diverse menu that accommodates various dietary needs will ensure that everyone can enjoy the food and feel included in the festivities. Also, don't forget to consider drink options, including non-alcoholic beverages!
Planning the best company holiday party requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Starting early, establishing a budget, choosing the right venue, planning engaging activities, and considering dietary restrictions and preferences are all crucial steps in creating a memorable and enjoyable event for your employees. Sway can help you every step of the way this holiday season and take the planning off your plate. Contact us today to understand how we can make your next holiday party your best holiday party yet.