How to Host the Perfect Office Christmas Party
Congratulations. You made it. The most wonderful time of the year is here. And it’s time to plan the office Christmas party. So the hunt for a perfect venue is in full swing. Although some people book their Christmas functions with us a year in advance, you’d be surprised how many leave it til the eleventh hour.
Office Christmas parties are a great way to mingle and raise a glass to another year done and dusted. But when it comes to organising it, there are two types of people. You are either dreading the idea and don’t know where to start; or, you are super excited and have it all figured out in advance.
Still, no matter which way you roll, there is always one little detail that can make or break your party. For that reason, we have created this checklist to help you plan your perfect office Christmas party and wow every single guest.
Larger functions
If your party is for a large group of people, you will naturally need a lot of space. This will ensure everyone has enough room to mingle, eat and dance. The best option, in this case, is to hire out a whole venue for a private function.
Menu
Catering for a larger function usually means a set menu. Now, this is a whole new challenge, especially with so many people having different dietary needs. Setting a custom menu is important since it sets the tone for the entire party. Don’t forget to check with all your guests for dietary requirements.
Location
It would be very convenient to find a venue close to your office or one where the guests can easily get to. You don’t want people to travel for hours to get to your Christmas party, and it’s best if the venue is central for people traveling in different directions. And don’t forget to consider public transport and parking options.
Facilities
It goes without saying, different types of venues will have different facilities. However, there are some essentials that every event planner needs to think about. For example, consider easy access to bathrooms, air-conditioning, good air-flow, music and the sound system, dancefloor, and wheelchair accessibility if required. Also, don’t forget the style of the venue. And whether your work Christmas party is at a bar, pub, restaurant, rooftop, or function room, the space should be the perfect size to suit the number of guests.
It’s all in the details
Hosting an office Christmas party everyone will talk about means you will need to take into account special details, such as the theme of your party. Things like decorations and party props should in your budget. And if you do choose a theme, don’t forget to let guests know about any costumes or special conditions.
A photo booth is a great crowd-pleaser. And if you have the budget for it, consider hiring a professional photographer to share with your guests later on social media.
Did we mention music? Music will make or break the party, so ensure you hire a professional DJ or band. If your budget doesn’t stretch to entertainment, then at least set up a good playlist for the entire night.
Small groups
Small groups are often the best way to let your hair down and have fun with your colleagues. Plus, there’s the bonus of having more options for your work Christmas party.
Booking a table for a small group couldn’t be easier. But depending on the size of your group, you may have a set menu or a la carte. A set menu can be more cost-effective too, so if you are going a la carte, be sure to think through the budget.
Fun activities
Smaller groups are easier to entertain at an office Christmas party. Come up with fun things to do, rather than simply rely on conversation. This can be anything from secret Santa to party games to prizes for the best costume, or even karaoke or trivia.
If you have a private space, consider setting up party props. Think about setting up a fun background for photos. With the photo quality of today’s phones and filters, anyone can make an insta-worthy photo with their smartphone.
Cocktail function
Make your office Christmas party a glamorous cocktail function by booking a standing room. Who wants to sit with such great music playing anyways? Also, people will be free to move about and mingle as they please. Just be sure to organise plenty of finger food and nibbles. And with the free-flowing drinks, everyone will be in the festive spirit.
Team-building activities
Fun and festive team-building activities are always a great idea. They build team morale and will help make the party more fun.
There are countless ideas for different team-building activities for your work Christmas party. Throw in a small prize and see who’s the most competitive in your team.
Here are a few ideas that are sure to get everyone having a great time:
- Xmas-related trivia
- Secret Santa gift exchange
- Scavenger hunt
- Decorated cookies: set up a cookie decorating table and have everyone decorate cookies with sprinkles, frosting, or colours
- Fill the Christmas stocking: divide into teams and have participants race to fill their team’s hanging stocking with a spoonful of wrapped candy. The first team to fill the stocking wins.
Office catering
If the perfect venue for your office Christmas party is fully booked, it’s time to take things into your own hands. The office is fast becoming one of the most popular locations to host a traditional office Christmas party. It just means you have to bring the catering to you.
Final thoughts
At Saros Bar + Dining, we have the ideal space for your work Christmas party, plus fantastic menu options including canapes or a la carte. And we can accommodate any number of guests. In fact, the more, the merrier! So, whether you’re planning an office Christmas party for 10 or 100, we’ve got you covered.
Finally, keep in mind that now’s the time everyone is planning their office Christmas party. Popular places are going like hotcakes. So you don’t want to miss out. Book now to avoid disappointment.