Budgets continue to be tight for “non-essential” company expenses. Unfortunately, the company holiday party has become a “non-essential” for many companies, causing them to downsize or do away with completely their holiday festivities. In the Granite State, where competition for top talent is fierce, employers can’t afford to skimp on efforts to show their employees they’re valued and appreciated. The holiday party is no exception.
The good news: You don’t have to spend five figures to have a great party. Here are five budget-friendly tips to bring your employees together for some holiday cheer:
1. Find the Right Party Venue
Your choice of venue sets the tone for your entire event. In fact, according to a national survey by corporate food delivery service Seamless, employees rank location second only to food in terms of what’s important for enjoying their company holiday party. Although hosting at the office may be cost-effective, it doesn’t always feel “special” to employees. Instead, host at a local restaurant or opt for a unique venue such as the historic Belknap Mill in Laconia, the enchanting Castle in the Clouds Lucknow Estate in Moultonborough, or the picturesque Labelle Winery in Bedford. If a local hotel, conference venue, or your office building has a large space you could outfit with rented lights, tables, chairs, linens, dinnerware, and dance floor, it could be the perfect option.
2. Plan Food Wisely
When it comes to the success of your holiday event, resist the urge to buy a few food platters from Costco. According to the Seamless survey, employees across the country say food is the most important component of a good holiday party. Results show that most (43 percent) prefer a full sit-down dinner, while more than a third (37 percent) would be pleased with appetizers. Most caterers can work with a budget, offering you different food choices your employees are certain to enjoy.
3. Rent What You Need
Even if you work with a venue that has furnishings, don’t expect them to have everything you need. Also, check with your caterer to learn what he or she does and doesn’t supply. You might need to rent chafing dishes, extra serving utensils, platters, and specialty barware. A local event rental company like Lakes Region Tent & Event of Concord, NH can provide you with everything you need to bring extra pizzazz to your event, including lights, dance floor, sound system, and linens in a variety of colors and textures.
4. Consider Whether or Not to Serve Alcohol
To serve or not to serve. According to a survey by consulting firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, nearly half (46 percent) of companies said their holiday parties would not include alcohol. If you choose to let employees indulge in a little holiday cheer, consider these tips from ThinkHR.com:
- Offer a cash bar with a specific start and end time
- Limit consumption by distributing 1-2 drink tickets to each participant
- Offer plenty of non-alcoholic options
- Hire trained bartenders who will stop serving those who display signs of having one too many
You might also consider celebrating with one or a few of New Hampshire’s many locally made, award-winning wines or craft beers, such as those from Hermit Woods Winery of Meredith or Kelsen Brewery of Derry.
5. Make it Fun
While food and venue may get the top votes for what makes a successful holiday party, music ranks third among employees (according to the Seamless survey). No need to hire an expensive cover band or DJ. Consider renting a sound system and creating multiple mixes to set the mood. Pipe in a holiday Pandora station for the meal, then kick over to a dance mix to liven up the party afterward.