Things can get pretty busy and complicated during the holiday season, especially party planning. Sometimes all the work can make you wonder if throwing a holiday party is worth it. However, there are certain things to keep in mind that can help alleviate some of that stress. Here are a few tips I picked up while helping plan the Holiday Party with the Shop LC Associate Senate.
1. Do what you can as far ahead of time as possible
There are many things you can decide on and start planning for well before the holiday rush hits. If you need a venue for your party, you’ll likely need to book one month in advance. The same goes for catering or other food options, and anyone you’d need to hire (such as DJs and photographers). These services get very busy during the holidays, and planning ahead will ensure you get what you want before everything gets booked up.
2. Pick a theme and use it to help you plan
Something else that can be done ahead of time and can help you plan is deciding on a theme. For our Holiday Party, we went with a red carpet/award show theme. Based on our theme, we chose activities and décor that went with it. For example, we had a recognition segment to thank all the employees that we did in an award show style and had a caricature artist to make everyone feel like a celebrity. For décor, we put down actual red carpets and used gold and silver accents to give the party a high-end feel.
3. Think of ways to keep your guests engaged
A fun party is a memorable party, so think of different ways to keep your guests entertained. We prepared a funny video that we showed at the party, highlighting many different employees. We also broke up the party by giving out various prizes throughout the event.
4. Plan ahead for guests with other needs
Our holiday parties are family-friendly events, and we encourage team members to bring all their loved ones. We know that kids will be at the event, so we plan by having coloring books, crayons, and other toys available for them. Think about the different kinds of guests that may come to your event and how you can accommodate their needs ahead of time, so they don’t slip your mind.
5. Be flexible
In my opinion, this is the most important tip. Event planning can be chaotic, even when you think you’ve prepared for everything. The unexpected can always happen. You may have to adjust plans or change things last minute. Embracing these uncertainties will serve you better than allowing them to throw you off, so remember to go with the flow and have fun with it!
Do you have a great party planning tip? Tell us in the comments!