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Organizing a Holiday Season Corporate Event to Remember

There’s no office party quite like the annual Christmas or holiday party. This grandest of all corporate events is the one all your other work functions will inevitably be compared against for the next year—and it’s fallen on your shoulders to make sure that everything about it is just right. No pressure, though!

The truth is, planning the perfect Christmas celebration for your coworkers is a piece of fruitcake, as long as you have the right ingredients and a lot of ho-ho-holiday cheer. Here are a few tips to help make sure your office will be simply having a wonderful Christmastime:

Get Started Early

I know, I know—Halloween is hardly even over, and we’re telling you that you need to start planning Christmas already. But it’s important to beat the rush, so to speak. Your coworkers’ calendars will soon start filling up, and you’ll want them to save the date before they make other plans. If you’re booking your party at a venue that is popular for corporate events, then it’s also important to do so early, before it fills up and there are no availabilities left. The countdown is on!

Make It Fun, Make It Memorable

Adding a touch of fun to this year’s office party isn’t as tough as it sounds—in fact, there are a number of ways to effortlessly make it a party to remember. One is to make it a themed event, such as “ugly Christmas sweaters.” Handing out a nice little prize for the absolutely most horrendous Christmas sweater makes it an even better time! A secret Santa exchange is also a great way to add some holiday fun, though a price cap on gifts will help make sure none of your staff feels inadequate about their parcels.

Food and Drink

What is Christmas without a hearty meal? For an in-office party, a potluck and a few bottles of wine are a great way to supply food and drink a-plenty. Just watch out for Brian the red-nosed accounts manager! If you host at a corporate event venue like a restaurant, make sure they have a menu full of delicious and diverse options, to accommodate the tastes of your whole office.

Be Respectful

Remember that not everyone in your office celebrates Christmas. We’re not telling you that you can’t call it a Christmas party (there is no “war on Christmas”), just simply remember to be courteous and respectful to the traditions and celebrations of everyone in attendance, and foster a welcoming, positive environment. Similarly, if anyone cannot attend because they have a commitment, either religious or family-related (e.g. Grandma got run over by a reindeer) then be respectful of their needs. This is a time for fun and for people to come together—lead by example, and your office Christmas party will follow (big red) suit!

Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and good luck!

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