Essential planning tips for the best company holiday party ever.

So many parties fail because of a lack of cohesive planning. Figure out what you want to get out of the party and create a list of priorities. 

​​​Rank this list from 1-5 (1 is the most important)​​​ 

___Improving company culture 

___Employee recognition 

___Year-end business updates 

___Maximum fun

___Cost effectiveness ​

Planning a successful party can quickly become a part-time job. Gather excited team members to help out. Determine your goals and priorities as a group, then split up the responsibilities

Categories to consider are: 

• Date
• Theme/decor
• Time
• Guest count
• Entertainment 
• Menu
• Timeline/agenda ​

Plan activities, agenda, and entertainment that reflect your team goals for the party. Make sure all the choices work together with your theme and priorities​

Examples of activities related to goals:

Our Top Priority is...

1. Improving company culture: Casino night, Staff retreat, Giveaways.
2. Employee recognition: Prizes, Awards presentation, Slideshows/Multimedia production. 
3. Business status updates: Speech from the boss during dinner. 
4. Maximum fun: Hire a great band, DJ, photo booth, and/or unique entertainment. Plan for a Thursday/Friday/Saturday night. Consider at least a cash bar, if not a hosted bar. ​
5. Cost effectiveness: Host the party during work hours, organize a potluck, and DIY entertainment 

Other ideas:  

1. Plan for a night that your key people can participate.
2. Weeknights (Monday-Thursday) are often less expensive and vendors offer discounts. ​

Planning Team: Check in regularly with your planning committee and set deadlines to plan efficiently. 

Vendors: Communicate your goals and priorities to your caterer, entertainment, and venue. 

Employees/Staff: This is VITAL. Make sure people know what kind of party this is going to be. Let them know about attire, agenda, if guests are welcome, and more. You’ve worked hard to plan the best party possible, now get the word out! ​

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