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Company Party Tips

Company Party Tips

Thinking about what to do for your company holiday party? Planning another type of business event?

Every so often, we read about some big corporate blow-out for a product launch, or some other noteworthy announcement. Fortune 500 company parties often make the Style section news, these days.

More small businesses throw parties

You might be surprised, however, to know that more small companies are having parties, these days. Smart employers know that company parties are a great way to show appreciation to employees and to entertain clients.

If you're in charge of overseeing the party, here are some helpful tips:

 

  • Have the party off-site: Arrange for a change of scenery, if it's at all feasible. Have the party in a restaurant or catering hall. Check out the party facilities at a local museum, aquarium, or botanical garden. Start making inquiries several months ahead and find out when you must book the party venue to secure preferred dates.
  • Offer food with the drinks: Cocktail parties are great to promote mingling. If you're going to be serving alcoholic drinks, however, be sure there will be plenty of food, as well. That way, guests won't feel the effects of the alcohol as quickly as they would while nibbling on the occasional tiny hors d'oeuvre. Employees and/or other guests will certainly be happier—and much safer, too.
  • Hire a bartender: Wherever the party is held, be sure there's a bartender. You should have at least one bartender for every 75 to 100 people.
  • Be sure to have enough wait staff: If your company party will include lunch or dinner, ensure that everything will flow smoothly. The general rule of thumb for sit-down service: At least one server for every one or two tables. For passed hors d'oeuvres or a buffet, figure one server for every 8 to 10 guests.

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