Ah, the office Christmas party – a time-honoured tradition that brings together colleagues for a night of festive fun, questionable dance moves, and the occasional awkward encounter by the photocopier. But behind every successful soirée is a meticulous planner (that’s you, that is) who started their preparations long before the first mince pie hit the shelves.
If you want to ensure your office Christmas party is the talk of the town (for all the right reasons, of course), here’s your ultimate planning timeline.
July: The Early Bird Catches The Venue
While the sun is still shining and the thought of the festive season (brrrrr!) seems a distant anxiety dream, now is the perfect time to secure your venue.
All the decent Christmas venues get booked up well in advance, and you don’t want to be left scrambling for a location come November.
Even less desirable; you have to host the event in your office after discovering everywhere’s booked out. We all know how demoralising it is to be drinking a tinny from your desk, wondering if you might just check your emails…
Consider the size of your team, the vibe you’re aiming for, and any special requirements (like a dance floor for those inevitable conga lines).
Checklist:
- Research and book the venue. Think about quirky locations like a historic manor house or a trendy rooftop bar. Your local Vodka Revs won’t do here.
- Confirm the date with key stakeholders and team members. Avoid clashing with other major events like the office bake-off final.
- Start a preliminary guest list. Don’t forget to include the office dog if he’s a regular attendee!
August: Theme & Entertainment
With the venue sorted, it’s time to think about the theme. Whether you’re going for a classic winter wonderland, a glamorous Great Gatsby affair, or something quirky like a retro 80s night, a theme can add a fun twist to the festivities. Once you’ve decided, book your entertainment – DJs, live bands, or even a magician can elevate the evening.
Checklist:
- Decide on a theme. How about a ‘Christmas Around the World’ theme with different cultural decorations and foods?
- Book entertainment. Consider a comedian who can roast the boss (gently, of course). Unless you’re the boss – then you might just want to hire a hype man.
- Start brainstorming decoration ideas. Think about hiring a snow machine for that extra wintery touch, and to discourage colleagues and charges making their own machine in the toilet cubicles.
September: Catering & Drinks
No Christmas party is complete without a feast. Whether you’re opting for a sit-down meal, a buffet, or a selection of canapés, now is the time to finalise your catering. Don’t forget to consider dietary requirements and preferences. And, of course, ensure there’s a well-stocked bar to keep the merriment flowing.
Checklist:
- Choose a catering company and menu. Maybe include a DIY hot chocolate bar with all the trimmings.
- Plan the drinks menu. How about a signature cocktail named after your company?
- Arrange for any special dietary requirements. Don’t forget the pizza and the vegan sausage rolls!
October: Invitations & RSVPs
With the major details in place, it’s time to send out the invitations. Whether you go for traditional paper invites or a snazzy e-vite, make sure to include all the essential details: date, time, venue, dress code, and RSVP instructions. Encourage early responses to help with final numbers.
Checklist:
- Design and send out invitations. Consider a fun video invite featuring the office mascot.
- Track RSVPs. Create a festive spreadsheet with a countdown to the big day.
- Follow up with any non-responders. Maybe send a cheeky reminder with a Christmas meme.
November: Final Touches
As the big day approaches, it’s time to finalise the finer details. Confirm all bookings, arrange transport if necessary, and start thinking about Christmas gifts, party favours or prizes for any planned games or competitions. This is also a good time to brief any speakers or performers.
Checklist:
- Confirm all bookings and arrangements. Double-check the snow machine is ready to go.
- Arrange transport if needed. Consider hiring a vintage double-decker bus for a fun ride home.
- Plan party favours or prizes. How about personalised baubles with each employee’s name?
December: Showtime!
The day has arrived! Ensure you have a team in place to help with setup and any last-minute hiccups. Once the party starts, your job is to enjoy the fruits of your labour and ensure everyone has a fantastic time. Don’t forget to capture the memories with plenty of photos – and maybe a few videos of those dance moves for posterity.
Checklist:
- Oversee setup and decorations. Make sure the mistletoe is strategically placed.
- Ensure all suppliers and entertainment are on track. Have a backup playlist ready in case the DJ’s laptop crashes.
- Enjoy the party! Maybe start a friendly competition for the best Christmas jumper.
The Night’s End: Hangover Supplies Goody Bags
As the night winds down and the last few revellers reluctantly leave the dance floor, it’s time to hand out a little something extra – hangover supplies goody bags. These thoughtful packages can include essentials like bottled electrolyte water, painkillers, mints, and perhaps a cheeky breakfast bar to help ease the morning after. It’s a small gesture that shows you care and adds a personal touch to the evening.
Checklist:
- Prepare hangover-cure goody bags. Include a funny note like “Survival Kit: Use Wisely!”
- Include items like bottled water, painkillers, mints, and breakfast bars. Maybe add a mini bottle of Bloody Mary mix for the brave.
- Hand out the goody bags as guests leave. Make sure to have a few extra for those who might need a double dose.
The Bottom Line
After the confetti has settled and the hangovers have been nursed, take some time to reflect on the event. Give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back – you’ve pulled off the ultimate office Christmas party!
Hey, could we get an invite next year? Hey? Hello?