If you find yourself given the job to organize the staff Christmas party, you might be wondering where to start and how to do it. Given the time constraints and the pressure of wanting to organize something that both you and your colleagues will enjoy can make it a stressful. Here are few tips that will make sure the stress of it all wont make you loose the Christmas spirit while planning a Christmas Party.
#1. Plan Ahead
Last minute planning will only give you a headache and more stress. In fact during Christmas, the best venues get booked up fast. You need to start planning early to secure the right venue and set the date so that everyone in the office will clear their schedule for that day.
#2. Budget
It’s very important to have an idea of how much money you have to spend. Some companies are generous enough to cover all the party bills but not in all cases. Talk to your boss to find out if the company will be paying for the whole party or if employees are expected to contribute.
#3. Theme
Themes are great for building up excitement before the date. It will give people an idea of what the party will be like. Examples of Christmas party themes include Christmas circus, vintage Christmas party, white Christmas etc.
#4. The Menu
If the party is going to be in a restaurant then getting the menu should not be complicated as most restaurants already have their menu set. If not hire a caterer to plan the menu and find out everyone’s dietary needs to ensuring everyone has something to eat.
Regarding drinks, Some company Christmas parties go entirely without alcohol these days, to ensure a happy and safe environment however, if alcohol must be served, plan in advance what will be served, when it will be served and if there is going to be a limit.
#5. Select a venue
It’s always best to have your event at an outside venue rather than in the office. No one wants to spend Christmas inside an office that you work in almost every day. Staff feel more valued if they are taken out, plus you don’t have to worry about cleaning the mess the next day. Find a venue which is easy to get to, and make sure there’s the option for taxis home at the end of the night.
#6. Entertainment
Make sure you have some fun programs with games and activities. At the very least, there should be music for your guests to listen to. Sometimes, competition works very well in breaking the ice between employees. You can get very creative with your forms of entertainment, but be sure that you do not leave your guests bored.
At the end of the party it’s always nice to have some closing remarks for recognizing and thanking employees for their hard work. It could even be a night where an award is given to the best staff.
Merry Christmas ad a happy new year
Thanks for reading this article, we hope it helped.