The holiday party season is just around the corner (already?!) and, let’s face it, some holiday parties can be quite dull. We decided to ask ourselves – what would be our top dos and don’ts for holiday parties? Whether your event is for employees only or you are inviting customers and partners, here are some key recommendations for producing a memorable holiday party.
Wendy Cook: Theme
- DO choose a theme that can be immediately grasped by its title and whose explanation is no longer than this sentence. A good theme reinforces event goals and extends easily to every event aspect.
- DON’T avoid popular themes just because they’ve been “done.” It’s your job to breathe new life into any theme. At a recent 70s party, we highlighted a game show photo op, break dancing, Soul Train, The Gong Show, and roller skating.
Kate Keleher: Attendee Experience
- DO consider throughput – at the door, catering stations, interactives and bar. Standing in line detracts from the overall experience. Think through the overall event flow and find solutions to reduce wait times.
- DON’T be afraid to take a chance on specialized, local vendors and entertainers who have never worked at a corporate event before. Attendees recognize and appreciate experts who have a genuine passion for their craft.
Wendy Parsley: Food Cravings
- DO take risks. Events present a great opportunity for people to try something new. Explore innovative ideas like liquid nitrogen cocktails or live torched meats. Get creative with savvy pairings and designs that will inspire and please their palates.
- DON’T forget about special diets. It is no longer acceptable to have a single vegetarian option to your event menu. Vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, dairy free, and organically grown diets are more common than ever. Be aware of all allergies and diets when crafting your menu. The result: happier attendees who will appreciate you going the extra mile to provide food designed with them in mind.
Jeff Starr: Music Vibes
- DO see every band you are proposing to the client. Stage presence and personality make a huge difference in getting the crowd involved and dancing. Encourage the bands to play some of their own music or put their own spin on classic covers – this gives them more ownership of the event and brings out their best.
- DON’T forget to take care of their rider. Make sure they have a proper green room with ample snacks and their favorite beverages. A stocked green room upon arrival with their favorites sets the night up for success.
Elle Chan: The Space
- DO give Karaoke its own space, where the rest of the party won’t hear it all night
- DON’T use faux snow flakes in a carpeted venue. Take it from us, the cleanup is a b*&%$ !
