Event Party Planning Tips
Here are a few tips to get your office or company party or private event started.
Fun With Food
Great food is always a great way to wow guests. It does not have to cost a fortune, but you do not want to skimp either. This is a time of celebration, be creative. Instead of boring veggie and fruit trays from the local box market that leave your guests feeling that showing up is more of an obligation rather than a time of celebration, give thought to themed spreads such as a pizza bar or involve the guests with a themed potluck. Check with local food truck vendors to park on-site for the evening. Having a couple of food truck vendors can give a welcome variety. If you plan to use a catering service, research them to see what others are saying, consider what types of food your guests prefer, and the recommended menu items of the caterer.
Create Interaction With Your Guests
Providing interactive activities is a great way to get the guests involved and not just sitting at a table awkwardly waiting for a chance to leave.
- Hire a professional DJ A DJ does more than play appropriate music. They can emcee games such as “Name that tune” or call out for Bingo, Trivia Pursuit or be the host for a themed style game show involving the guests. If giving out gifts, instead of just handing them out, turn it into a game. A professional experienced DJ can keep the guests entertained and the flow of the party going.
- Rent a photobooth Photobooths give guests a fun way to create new memories.
- Food and/or clothing donation drive Provide a charitable drive involving the guests. Ask guests to bring something to donate to a local nonprofit like a food pantry or clothing provider. It shows support for the community, feels good to give, and brings appreciation to what we have.
Put together a team to plan the party
Select individuals for their ability to influence other employees and use the assignment as a reward or incentive for those chosen. The company’s event planner should work with an empowered leader in HR or marketing (someone authorized to approve the plan) to help drive decisions and choose the best team members.
Consider location options
Give thought to having the party outside of where everyone works. It creates that separation between work and play. Booking a venue close to a holiday like Christmas can get expensive or next to impossible to find a nice location. Consider shopping for a venue early to get better deals. You may consider having the celebration earlier in the season, which can provide big discounts. If you decide to have the office party at the work location, get creative. Hide the things that remind the attendees of work. Decorate the space to bring color and give an atmosphere for celebration.
Create a cocktail and decide on alcohol consumption levels
If providing drinks, give consideration to having a themed cocktail for the evening. You can consult a mixologist, or create one yourself, or just find one and rename it for the evening. You may even create a non-alcohol version. You do not need a fully stocked bar but have a beer/wine/mixed drink list alternative available.
Provide transportation options
If your serving alcohol have options for people to get home safely and help ensure they make it to work on the next scheduled work day.
- Queue up Uber or Lyft
- Have a sign-up for designated drivers (DD) and carpooling
- Consider a shuttle van for the evening
Remind guests of proper etiquette
Sending out a company-wide memo or email laying out the ground rules is an acceptable way to communicate and helps to ensure everyone has a great time.
Consider gift exchanges
If the planners decide on gift exchanges, consider dollar limits or “white elephant” all-inclusive gift giving. Company-wide versus department-wide gift giving should be considered.
Hope these tips provide a great start to planning your company’s event party.
