6 ways to keep it merry this Christmas party season
It’s the time of year for anticipation, reflection and joy. But while most people get into the festive spirit, those tasked with planning and executing the annual Christmas ‘do often descend into nail-biting worry until the chairs are stacked and the lights are switched off, says Jake Dimarco, founder and CEO of Sydney-based venue finding platform VenueNow.
Sometimes a reminder of the basics can go a long way, especially as expectations evolve and the group of people charged with planning duties continues to broaden.
VenueNow’s recent survey confirmed this shift. Executive and personal assistants now make up the largest segment of those planning events, and marketing professionals and senior leadership are also now tasked with finding the venue, sending out the invitations and stringing up the lights.
Amid all these shifts, one truth stands out like a guiding star at the top of the tree: the modern Christmas party needs more thought and flexibility than ever before.
Here are some handy tips to keep in mind.
1. Rethink alcohol as the Holy Grail
Many employees don’t want to drink for a number of reasons, and the younger generations in particular are turning their backs on the classic booze up. This is a trend confirmed in the latest State of the Grapes report as well as my own observations in the events industry.
To make sure non-drinkers feel included, provide plenty of low and no alcohol options beyond water and soft drinks. Also don’t offer up a heap of booze hours before the food comes out – a transgression that seems to crop up time and time again.
2. Make it accessible, both physically and emotionally
People don’t want barriers to participation. Choose a venue close to public transport and ideally with parking options, and make sure it doesn’t require a The Lord of the Rings-style expedition to find the front entrance.
It’s also important to begin proceedings during work hours. It can certainly continue into the evening for those who want to keep the party going, but no one should feel like they have to sacrifice personal time to attend.
3. Cater for both introverts and extroverts
Festive parties often favour the loudest people in the room, but the most inclusive events offer options for everyone.
Reward the people who love nothing more than regaling colleagues with their stories with a beer in hand, but also give introverts a way to participate without feeling overwhelmed. Low-key activities like pool, darts, bowling or even a team-building escape room can be a great leveller and help people engage in a way that feels natural to them.
4. Spend the budget where it matters
Teams aren’t impressed by shallow gimmicks, so allocate your funds towards what actually matters to them.
This includes quality food that will fill them up, drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and a venue that feels comfortable and social. A well-executed, simple event will outperform an over-engineered one every time.
5. Throw formulas in the bin
We’re living in a fast-moving world where trends and attention spans shift quickly, so simply repeating last year’s formula is the fastest way to lose people’s interest. We’re seeing event organisers switch up venues more than ever before to tap into what’s new and zeitgeisty.
Try experimenting with a different layout, a surprise moment or a theme with a twist. You can gather inspiration by looking at the themes, food and beverage options, design elements and recreational activities favoured on the platforms and by the content creators your workers are consuming.
6. Just ask what they want
Most employees across generations are confident in sharing their preferences when given the chance. A quick, informal poll can help customise the experience and demonstrate that you genuinely value their input – something that will serve you well long after the tinsel is packed away.
A memorable Christmas party doesn’t need the bells and whistles of Santa’s sleigh, it just needs thoughtfulness. If you focus on accessibility, good food, inclusive activities and a format that respects peoples’ time, you’ll have a celebration that actually feels merry, not mandatory.
This article first appeared on cimbusinessevents.com.au here
