HOW TO PLAN AN UNFORGETTABLE WORK CHRISTMAS PARTY AT FACTORY51
Planning a work Christmas party can be a daunting task, especially when aiming to create an event that everyone will remember fondly. At Factory51, we understand the importance of this festive tradition in fostering team spirit and celebrating the year’s successes. Here’s a 12-step guide to planning a work Christmas celebration that will be the highlight of your team’s year.
1. Start Planning Early
The key to a successful work Christmas party is early planning. Venues and vendors book up quickly during the festive season, so it’s crucial to secure your desired location and services well in advance. Start brainstorming ideas as early as April or May, and aim to have all major decisions finalised by the end of September.
Action Points:
– Form a planning committee if possible.
– Secure your venue (Factory51’s unique industrial-chic space is perfect for festive celebrations!).
– Book your entertainers, stylists, and any other necessary vendors.
2. Set a Realistic Budget
Establishing a clear budget early on will guide your planning process. Consider all possible expenses, including venue hire, catering, entertainment, decorations, and transportation. It’s also wise to set aside a contingency fund for any unexpected costs.
Action Points:
– Break down your budget into categories: venue, food, entertainment, decorations, etc.
– Prioritise spending on what matters most to your team—whether it’s gourmet food, high-quality entertainment, or impressive styling.
3. Choose a Convenient Date
Selecting the right date is crucial to ensuring maximum attendance. Consider the work schedules of your colleagues and aim for a date that accommodates the majority. Thursdays and Fridays are popular as they are later in the week and allow employees the chance to unwind.
Action Points:
– Send out a staff email with a shortlist of dates to see what’s best for the majority.
– Once the date is confirmed, send out save-the-dates (this can just be a calendar invitation!).
4. Pick a Theme
A themed party can add a fun and cohesive element to your event, making it more memorable. Popular themes include Winter Wonderland, Retro Christmas, or even a Hollywood Glamour night. Once the theme is chosen, all other aspects of the party—decorations, music, dress code—should align with it.
Action Points:
– Choose a theme that resonates with your company culture.
– Incorporate the theme into every aspect of the event, from invitations to décor.
Need inspiration? Check out our post on Corporate Christmas Party Ideas.
5. Select the Perfect Venue
The venue sets the tone for your entire event. Factory51 offers a versatile space that can be transformed to fit almost any theme or style. Our venue combines modern elegance with industrial chic, providing the perfect backdrop for a stylish Christmas celebration.
Action Points:
– Visit potential venues to get a feel for the space.
– Consider logistics like parking, accessibility, and capacity.
6. Plan Engaging Activities
To keep the energy high and ensure everyone has a great time, plan what activities will be incorporated throughout the event. Think about a mix of interactive elements like a photo booth, karaoke, or a Christmas-themed quiz. If your budget allows, hiring live entertainment such as a band or DJ can elevate the experience.
Action Points:
– Organise activities that cater to different personalities—both introverts and extroverts.
– Plan a mix of structured activities and free time for mingling.
7. Choose a Delicious Menu
Food and drink are central to any great party. Whether you opt for a Christmas lunch, shared feast, or cocktail-style event, ensure there are options to cater to all dietary needs. Factory51’s in-house catering can provide a range of festive options that are sure to leave your guests raving about the food.
Action Points:
– Decide on the type of dining experience (formal plated menu, communal feasting, or stand-up).
– Consider festive drink options like mulled wine or specialty cocktails.
8. Send Out Invitations Early
Once all the high-level details are set, it’s time to send out invitations. These should include all relevant information such as the date, time, venue, dress code, and any other important details. Sending out invitations early helps ensure high attendance and gives your team something to look forward to.
Action Points:
– Use digital invitations for convenience, or opt for traditional printed ones for a more personal touch.
– Include an RSVP date and number/website/email to finalise numbers.
9. Plan the Logistics
Consider how your team will get to and from the venue. Factory51 is conveniently located a stone’s throw from the city with plenty of offsite parking. If your celebration is straight after work, consider arranging transport from the office to get everyone onsite.
Action Points:
– Arrange group transportation if needed.
– Provide information on parking and nearby accommodation options.
10. Finalise All Details
As the event approaches, make sure all loose ends are tied up. Confirm all bookings, ensure you have enough supplies, and prepare for any last-minute changes. Your event coordinator will work with you to create a timeline to keep everything on track.
Action Points:
– Have a final meeting with your planning committee.
– Double-check all arrangements with vendors and the venue.
11. Enjoy the Event
On the day of the event, make sure everything runs smoothly but also take the time to enjoy the party yourself. You’ve worked hard to make this happen, and it’s important to celebrate alongside your colleagues. You may be surprised at how often bosses become besties at the office Christmas party!
Action Points:
– Arrive early to oversee setup.
– Delegate tasks to ensure you can relax and enjoy the evening.
12. Post-Event Follow-Up
After the party, don’t forget to follow up. Send a thank-you email to everyone who attended, and gather feedback to help improve future events. Share photos from the event to keep the festivities alive a little longer and foster team spirit.
Action Points:
– Collect feedback from attendees.
– Share photos and highlights from the event.
Organising a corporate Christmas event at Factory51 can be a fun and rewarding experience. With a bit of planning and creativity, your work Christmas party will be the talk of the office for all the right reasons! Contact our Event Manager to check available dates and view our function space.