Strictly Business feature: Three thoughts on throwing office parties on a budget
| Thursday, Nov 26 2009 12:00 PM
Last Updated Thursday, Nov 26 2009 12:00 PM
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Therese M. Dozier
Brenda Wright
Tomeka Powell
Give people an opportunity to celebrate heartily once a year and eventually they come to expect it, even when money's tight. That's the dilemma facing some employers as the holiday season nears. Nobody wants to look like Scrooge, but at the same time, nobody wants to spend themselves out of business by this time next year.
Our question: How do you throw an office holiday party on a shoestring budget?
It is completely possible to throw an office holiday party on a shoestring budget, but it takes a little dedication and creative thinking. For invites, an Evite or poster of the event can be posted somewhere everyone can see. Leaving an e-mail address for RSVPs will help you put a number to attendees, which helps you keep track of your cost.
Many of the dollar stores have a great selection of paper goods that will work wonderfully. Food will be your biggest cost. You can find good deals on platters at some of the club stores this time of year.
Beverages can be easily offered as iced tea, coffee and, for those who need something a little stronger, there are recipes online for juice-based alcoholic beverages that can be made in large quantities. Lively music can easily be provided without hiring a DJ by programming an iPod or mp3 player with party music and borrowing a player or receiver to add just the right ambience.
-- Therese M. Dozier, owner of My Sorted Affair
As a caterer, I've been asked this question more this year than any other. My answer is, it's more important than ever to acknowledge the season, boost morale and let employees know they are appreciated. Instead of elaborate evening parties, or another boring potluck where you're not sure what you'll get, I suggest considering these cost-saving options:
* Host the party in the office or at your home, versus renting a venue
* A simple buffet versus a plate-served meal
* Paper or plasticware versus china rentals
* Smaller portions of great food versus larger portions of mediocre food
* One signature cocktail versus a full bar
* An afternoon luncheon at your office versus dinner
* Keep décor simple; use candles versus elaborate floral arrangements
Food is always the most important part of any celebration. A professional caterer should be able to help eliminate stress and work within your budget. Just be sure to celebrate the season.
-- Brenda Wright, owner, Curtis' Catering Affairs
Holiday office parties, just like a romantic evening for two, don't have to be expensive to create a lasting memory. With some creativity and a little effort, you can make this year's party fabulous and still have money left to spare. Here are some tips to help your in-office or out-of-office shoestring budget:
In-Office
Have a potluck. Give the party a theme and don't be afraid to shop your local dollar store. Have a "white elephant" gift exchange and consider creative gifts such as a coupon worth 30 or 60 minutes of vacation time, redeemable before Dec. 31. Remember: Music, food, drinks, games, gifts and a relaxed atmosphere equal enjoyability.
Out-of-Office
Try using your home. If using a banquet hall or restaurant, schedule the party on a weekday and have a luncheon instead of a dinner. If serving alcohol, skip the cocktails and serve beer and wine. Use a stereo system instead of a band or DJ. And, don't forget to shake a leg: Your employees will join you if you do.
-- Tomeka Powell, director of eMarketing strategy, ShowMeYouLoveMe.com
