Holiday Party Planning Steps You Don't Want To Skip

It’s the most wonderful time of the year full of social and company holiday parties galore... be the holiday hero by making sure you check remember these thoughtful steps!

Each year we host and plan hundreds of holiday parties across the country and take note of the most important party planning steps that are essential - but often forgotten - to a fun and joyous holiday celebration with your colleagues. Protect the seasonal cheer by making sure you have all your bases covered when you address these 5 critical planning steps! Of course, when you book with Wedgewood Weddings, we'll be there to make sure every detail is picture-perfect. 

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Consider Holiday Travel Schedules

When choosing your holiday party venue and date, be sure to first consider holiday travel schedules. Some people travel up to 2 or 3 weeks prior to the holiday season to beat the travel surge, meaning that an early December party might be ideal for your teams. Or, if you're expecting most of your attendees to stay local, you can have more flexibility with your party planning. When in doubt, send out a quick survey to your potential guests asking for insight into their travel plans and availability.

plan transportation

Depending on your event location, arranging transportation may be essential or simply a nice gesture. If the party is at a venue or a remote location, the most efficient option is to have guests meet at the office and take buses or limos transport the guests. Alternatively, you may coordinate carpooling options, or offer to pay the cost of ride-share options to and from the event. Whatever you decide, it's best party-planning practice to at least outline transportation options for your guests and offer clear directions. 

Holiday Party Invitations from Zazzle

SEND INVITATIONS

Just because you're planning a work-related event, doesn't mean that you should send an email or calendar invitation and leave it at that. Holiday party invitations are a great way to step up your party game and really get your guests jazzed about the party to come. If you happen to be planning a virtual event, the perfect invitation can really set the stage for the theme and style of the party. We love the holiday invitation options curated by Paperless Post - virtual invitations inspired by real stationary.

Oh, and don't forget to send those invitations nice and early! We recommend sending invitations at least 6 weeks in advance, especially if you're hosting a large group.

create an alcohol policy

A great way to make sure your holiday party stays safe, fun and in line with company culture is to create an alcohol policy. If you plan to offer alcohol, responsibility is key. We always recommend working with your HR team on the best way to communicate your policy. Other strategies such as offering 1-2 free drink tokens, or limiting the open bar hours, can help to make sure your party is smooth sailing.

5-star party favors

Gifts! Swag! Whatever you call it, plan to send your guests home with a gift from your holiday party. It's always best to invest in one great party favor, rather than several small items that will never be used. Some ideas we love are: 

• Electric coffee or tea mug complete with a branded quote, graphic or logo
• Mini polaroid camera for capturing photos at the event
• A professional leadership book and custom bookmark

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The key to planning a memorable business holiday party that everyone will want to attend is really in the small details that encourage your guests to mingle and be reminded what makes the company or team so wonderful. Be thoughtful about culture, personality, and accessibility and you'll be in great shape.

Whether you’re a family, corporation, small business, civic group or an association, we are happy to assist you with all your holiday party planning needs! Call or text (866) 966-3009 to book a venue walk-through at one of our award-winning venues today!

For more advice on planning the best holiday party, check out our holiday party planning guide for step-by-step holiday party planning guidance.