.jpg)
Photo/Judi Bottoni
This year the “Annual Holiday/Christmas party”, will change for most of us. Gone are the days of three to five thousand dollar budgets for the large department and small business holiday parties. Also gone are the family holiday parties that are elegant and elaborate (private holiday decorators and chef). If you are creative and think of cost first, you can have a wonderful holiday season that is both memorable and just as fun.
Here are a couple of tips and suggestions for holiday gatherings that allow you to enjoy the season without increasing your personal or corporate budget.
Company's and departments .jpg)
• No open bar – cash only (this will save a lot of money)
• Hosting an event off site? Ask leadership to host the event at their home
• Limit drinks per person (2 drinks per or $10 per person)
• Exclude alcoholic drinks allow for guest to purchase their own Venue may allow for drink specials
• Omit company gifts to employees – have employees create gives to give
• Sever simple appetizers or desserts instead of buffet style or full-service dining
• Find a venue that will allow for you to come in, but not pay venue charge (this works if it is right after work or late Saturday afternoon, venues may not operate at full capacity at this time and could use the spike in customers)
• Host a potluck Holiday lunch instead of a Holiday party
• Have a favorite bar or restaurant, talk with the owners they might give you a nice deal or drink specials to offer guest
• Host a Employee Cook-Off Event – hosted at the company employees bring in these best dish for a panel of judges (it’s really a pot luck)
Family and Friends
.jpg)
Larry Crowe
• Make it a pot luck event (bring your favorite dish to share)
• Only serve beer or wine
• Sever only appetizers or desserts instead of buffet or full-service dining
• Serve a signature drink instead of purchasing a variety of liquors (great for families/friends)
• B.Y.O. B. you provide the mixers
• Host a best dish contest – Let grandma be the judge involve everyone (it’s really a potluck)
Let me know what other suggestion and tips you might have for the holiday parties.
Comments