Planning an Amazing Holiday Shindig!

Sometimes wearing the marketing “hat” means that you will do a lot more then marketing.  In many of my positions I have found myself doubling as a party planner.  No complaints here!  I love putting together morale boosting events, especially the annual holiday party.  It doesn’t matter what your budget may be, anyone can put on a fun-filled event with a little creativity.  Here are my Top 7 Tips in Planning an Amazing Holiday Shindig. 

Establish a budget – This might be out of your control, but knowing what you have to work with is important.  Although you operate on a tight budget, no budget only works with fairy dust.  Knowing your numbers will help guide you in terms of venue, food selection, and entertainment.  There are ways to cut corners with these fundamentals allowing you more wiggle room for décor and gifts.

Have a theme – You don’t have to go with the most popular of themes like Luau, Casino or Mardi Gras.  Unexpected is interesting and will keep your guests chatting.  The main purpose of a theme is to give you focus and structure. 

Other popular theme parties include: Fifties, Paris, Fairytale, Beach, Western and Hollywood.

Start planning early – Especially during the holidays, venue reservations fill up, gifts go on backorder and entertainers are booked.  I start thinking about our holiday party at least three months in advance.  Creativity doesn’t always happen on schedule, so by giving yourself plenty of time, it will be easier to let the ideas come naturally then trying to force them for a last minute crunch.  Also be sure to communicate with vendors at least a month before your event to ensure everything is confirmed and there are no questions.  Your week before will be busy and there will be little time to fix any last minute issues.

Research – There are tons of event planning websites and blogs at your fingertips.  Use to web to get inspiration and then customize to fit your team and your budget.  Google images are also helpful to find décor samples.

Have an agenda – Map out a clear action plan for your event.  Consult with your caterer and entertainment on their needs so you can plan accordingly. Keeping to an agenda will help your party run smoothly and to create a pre-function checklist.

Provide icebreakers – I would say this is the key to having a lively party.  I remember the worst party I ever went to. I walked into a room with 50 people I didn’t know.  There were no introductions, no one tried to strike up a conversation or even ask my name. It was completely awkward.  By providing ways for your guests to interact, you take away some of the discomfort of being bombarded by a room of new faces and encourage people to mingle.

Treat all guests as equals – Along with providing icebreakers, if you have spouses attending, get them involved just as much as the employees.  A guest once told me that they felt more welcome at our company party, then their own.  I took it as a great compliment.  Encourage your staff to welcome guests, provide spouses with little trinkets and by all means, let them join in on the activities.  If your party is remembered as the one everyone enjoyed, then your attendance will improve in years to come.