Planning a corporate holiday party can be a daunting task, as it is more often than not the biggest event of the year. It is a morale-booster and a way to develop the company’s culture. It can be overwhelming to plan such a large even around the holidays. However, with the right planning and resources, it doesn’t have to be.
Here are some full-service catering tips for the perfect corporate holiday party.
Corporate Holiday Party Dining Options
During the holiday party, it is essential that all team members feel included as part of the festivities. Elect teams to manage different aspects of your event, to keep everyone engaged and feel valued. Set up a drink and souvenir station upon entry (silly hats?) to welcome guests and set the mood for a fun, holiday event. Once guests approach the main area, you’ll want to plan the logistics of how guests will dine at your event. Options are always a good choice. They ensure a stress-free experience for all guests to let them enjoy the festivities and take everything at their own pace.
Variety Is the Spice of Life
Employees will feel appreciated and part of the team by offering menu items and holiday traditions based on your employees’ backgrounds.You could have a sushi and ramen station across from a tapas bar, followed by meditarranean offerings at a third station.
Label Everything
Food allergies are very common. In fact, an estimated 32 million Americans have at least one food allergy. To accommodate for employees with allergies and food sensitivities, clearly label all of your menu offerings. Also, be sure to offer a wide assortment of menu items. This will ensure a stress-free holiday experience for those with allergies.
Team-Building
White Elephant
It is common practice across many organizations to host holiday party gift-exchanges between employees. They are a way for employees to feel valued, and for the company to encourage the holiday spirit. Each participant supplies a wrapped gift (the organizer should determine gift criteria prior to the event.) Players determine which order they will take turns selecting gifts. The first person opens a wrapped gift, ending their turn. Each subsequent turn, a participant has the option of unwrapping a new gift, or stealing another player’s. Consider having one at your corporate holiday party to entertain your guests.
Choose a Theme
A theme goes a long way, as it sets the mood for decor and dining options. Subtle details, like table decorations, can establish the tone for the Holiday spirit. A well-executed theme also encourages employees to loosen up, and to enjoy the festivities. When selecting a theme, other elements to take into consideration are lighting, costumes, seating arrangements, and plating, to name a few.
Photobooth for Your Corporate Holiday Party
Photobooths are increasing in popularity at events, as they are interactive and enable guests to create their own memories. Consider including one at the entrance of your event or in a designated area beside the bar. This way, guests can snap an impromptu photo while waiting for their order. Consider staging the photo booth with holiday decor to match the theme of your event.
Decide on Drinks
You may want to narrow down your alcoholic beverage options to limit intoxication while still letting guests enjoy the event. For example, prepare a Signature cocktails in small taster size glasses. This enables your invitees to enjoy the taste of a holiday drink. It also minimizes the risk of over-indulging. Another option is to limit your beverage menu to wine and beer only, eliminating the hard alcohol altogether..
Build-Your-Own-Dessert Bar
Giving your guests the option to create their own dessert offers an unparalleled experience, as no two creations will be the same. Allowing such customization options and engagement will be sure to entertain your guests.
The Space
Finding the right venue to host your party is essential, as it ensures your party will be executed to its full potential. Choose a venue that is appropriate based on the size of your event and projected number of attendees.
Timing
Will your event need to be on a weekday or will it work best on a weekend? Consider which option will work best for the majority of your guests. This decision will make considerable impact on other details, and planning the date as early as possible will ensure plans go as smoothly as possible.
To Buffet or not to Buffet
Holiday parties are typically served buffet-style or by wait staff. Once you determine the menu items and number of attendees, you may find that one works better for your needs. For example, if you are planning a corporate holiday with a large number of guests, consider opting for buffet-style. Lines will move relatively quickly, enabling guests to socialize and dine at their leisure.
If you plan on serving a buffet, consider menu items that tie in with the holiday season. This could include cheese platters with a wide assortment of crackers and preserved fruit, as well as finger-foods that are easy to eat with minimal mess.
Instead of one long buffet, you may want to set up different stations that serve various small plates. This will reduce the risk of long lines. Guests will appreciate quick access to various freshly-made small portions. They will also be able to try everything your party has to offer.
Summary
We at Personal Touch Dining bring extensive experience and resources to execute your perfect corporate holiday party. We are a premier San Diego catering company that can provide you with all of the options above and more. Whether you need a full-service holiday catering event, or prepared meals, we are here to accomodate to your needs. Bring us your ideas! We will not only bring them to fruition, but use them as a foundation to inspire our own creativity and recommendations. You are only limited by your imagination.
Beyond catering, we offer venues to host your event, bar service, and a large list of partner vendors. This helps you to bring sophisticated events together, all in one place. Drop us a line today, and let’s talk about your upcoming holiday party!
