We know that the Holidays are fast approaching. We’re all watching our wallets, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t host a holiday party for your employees and still keep it all in budget!
Whatever your party budget, it will serve you well to show your appreciation for your workers’ year-long efforts in some tangible and merry-making manner; to celebrate together in a social rather than business like atmosphere. This goes a long way toward making workers feel valued and helps them bond with one another, and is a good step toward team building and improving morale.
That’s why we come up with several ideas on how you can host a party and engage the team. There is a way to party hardy and have a great time if you follow some simple rules.
Here are 12 Great Holiday Party Planning Tips to having a Budget Friendly Company Holiday Party
1. Start Planning Now
Everyone knows the key to saving money is to plan ahead and be organized. Now is the time to decide what type of party you’d like. Do you want to have a dinner party at a big fancy ballroom or an informal get together at the office? Think about your guest list. Will employee’s spouses be attending? Keeping the party on the smaller side is more than likely going to save you money.
2. Set the date Immediately
“Premium” days in the month of December quickly fill up on an Event spaces calendar.
3. At the Office Mid-Week Luncheon
A catered luncheon at the office can be less expensive than a restaurant or banquet outing. Catered foods range in cost and we have many items to choose from with a variety of prices and options. Since this is during a work day, it will be less expensive than a dinner evening banquet.
4. Off Premises Parties
Invite your employees and their “significant others” to the Bosses home. At home holiday parties have a “warm and cozy” feel to them, and can make socializing more comfortable and enjoyable. Holding a party at your home can also be a little easier on the wallet than a restaurant or banquet hall. Whether you serve brunch, lunch, dinner or cocktails, be sure the quality and taste of the food and drink is superior; this will add considerably to the party experience.
5. Having Us Just Drop it Off
Instead of having the expense of a wait staff and bartenders. Just have us bring everything, set it up, then leave. Arrange for us to come back and pick up our equipment the next day!
6. The Fancy Party
If you choose to go “BIG” and hold your party here, there are some ways to hold down costs. Choose a week day things tend to be less expensive during the week then prime weekend territory.
7. After Holidays Party
In January and February the prime dates aren’t filled and you might just get more value for your dollar. So pick a Friday and Saturday night and let your employee have a great time.
8. Don’t Custom Order
For us our Chef carefully plans a menu to inspire, stay balanced, and with a specific budget in mind. When you start customizing your menus, this is where a great idea becomes a much larger process and harder to execute which in turn makes it expensive. So keep your menu simple, this way it stay within your budget but also makes it easier for everyone.
9. Get an Accurate Head Count
Getting an accurate head count is ideal for reducing your cost. This is where your company’s money gets wasted. You definitely do not want to pay for “no shows” so get an accurate head count before you make your guarantee.
10. Buffets or Food Stations
Create some fun interactions with different food stations. This will make your guest mingle and converse with other employees whom they may not have meet before. Buffets are great because you can feed lots of employees fast.
11. Passed Hors d’oeuvre
Passed appetizers gives a feel of elegance while also creating less waste. If you have servers walk around with trays your guests are more likely to eat what they take.
12. Simplicity equals Elegance
Sometimes less is more, so focus your budget on the most important items first. Your party doesn’t have to be extravagant to be fun!
The Holiday’s should be a time for fun and merriment. With this in mind, reward your employees with a fun and joyful holiday party as a way to express your appreciation. Remember to keep these tips in mind when you’re planning your next holiday party!
