The last two months of the year can feel extremely hectic. The normal fiscal and end of year closing mixed with holidays and time off requests can intensify the energy. Adding your community holiday party into the mix can be daunting.
Don’t fret! We have a few tips to share to help organize your holiday party. Say goodbye to the stress. These tips will surely provide a stellar structure to leave your residents talking.
Tip #1 Create An Environment
Themes and concepts can direct your food, entertainment and environment concept. The use of Christmas or traditional holiday decorations can be tricky for communities focusing on inclusion. Your theme can spark excitement within the community in the midst of office or obligatory parties.
Is your community wanting to stay away from Santa’s, Christmas trees, angels and etc? Try an Ugly Sweater, Winter Wonderland, or Holidays Around The World themes for inspiration.
Once you have your theme, you can select menus or additions to play off the concept. The environment should include memorable moments that promote social media shares. Check out additional environment tips on PunchBowl blog post on creating an environment https://www.punchbowl.com/p/5-tips-for-planning-your-holiday-party.
Tip # 2 Know Your Numbers
Budget! Budget! Budget! It’s key to know your budget. There is a fine line between when to handle in-house or outsource. Communities can fall into the trap of doing everything to save money. Usually, it can result in the management working the event instead of enjoying the event, paying overtime and facing staff shortages.
The staff should be able to enjoy and engage residents at the event. If your budget has a wiggle room, pay a few extra bucks to have a bartender or food catered. LuxeGiving prides itself on full service with catered events. Email us at info@luxegivingllc.com to receive our holiday party menus.
The average caterer costs are around $15 or more for holiday menus. It’s important to remember fast food costs $10 per person. Please keep that perspective when planning to accommodate 100 people at $500. If your budget has no wiggle room, check out the Connection Lounge platform.
Tip # 3 Sharing Is Caring
Ultimately, resident engagement activities play a major part. You don’t have to face the planning season alone. LuxeGiving has relationships with entertainment, bar services, caterers and much more. Maximize your capacity through partnerships.
Zenefits shares the perfect tips with planning your company party. You can read their article at https://www.zenefits.com/workest/how-to-plan-company-holiday-party/. Resources gives you access to everything you need at your figure tips. In addition, you can find tips specific to community parties at https://www.qceventplanning.com/blog/2017/12/top-7-things-consider-planning-community-holiday-party/.
Planning your holiday party truly takes creating a theme, maximizing your budget and utilizing your resources. The holiday season is a time for gratitude and fun times. Don’t allow yourself to feel the stress.
Reach out to us at www.luxegivingllc.com for our event programs and ideas. Are you ready for the holiday season? Do you have a favorite theme?
These tips are great – especially the knowing your numbers one! I wrote a post about hat to bring as a thank you gift for the host or hostess this holiday season (https://www.twofunnygirls.com/blog/2019/11/15/holiday-hostess-gifts/) if you’re interested!