GETTING IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT

The leaves are turning and the weather is changing.  The stores are already displaying holiday decor and gifts.  So, is it too early to start planning your holiday party?  Whether you are planning an office party, a company wide party or thinking about a party in your home to celebrate the holiday season, NOW is the time to start doing it.  In my years of running restaurants and banquets, by the end of September we always had limited dates available for parties.  

It's hard to start thinking of snow and lights and Christmas trees when the days are still warm.  Getting a head start will ensure your party will be where you want and when you want.  Today I have some ideas for entertaining your coworkers and your friends.  And, some tips on things to think about while deciding what kind of event you want to have.

Choosing a venue is the first thing you want to do.  If you already have a date in mind, the earlier the better.  Remember, this is still wedding season, as well as the time when everyone is vying for the best venues.  So, choose your date and book it.  

Is this going to be an adults only, evening affair or a Sunday afternoon with children?  If you want an elegant affair to appreciate the hard work of your employees, make it an evening party, but don't leave out the whimsy.  Cocoa, candy canes and lots of candles keep the festive atmosphere, but also make it grown up.

If you want to share the holiday spirit with all of the families that make your company great, You may want to have some kid friendly decor and plan something for the kids to do- Santa Claus, gingerbread houses to make, a holiday photo booth for everyone to get involved with.  Having a cocoa station or a s'mores station will make everyone smile.  These ideas are fun, yet not too childlike.  Put a candy cane in the children's stocking and a Christmas bonus in the adults stocking.  Everyone will be happy and entertained.

Don't forget to include all the holidays!  Diversity is so important to your employees.  Please don't leave anyone out.  Make the decor fit a winter theme or just use gold and silver to make the room shimmer like snow.  Lighting gives the room an ambiance.  This is a time to share the love and friendship, the hard work of a year of growth and the promise of a new year to continue working together.  Make it for everyone.  Everyone likes to use the holidays as an excuse to have a party at home.  What better time than when the house is all decked out in holiday splendor?!  This is a good time to hire the help.  There are companies that will provide the bartenders and waitstaff to serve what you have created in your own kitchen.  You have done the work, now let someone else serve it while you enjoy your guests.  Or, take all the pressure off and hire a caterer.  You can decide on just cocktails and light bites for an open house, or have a seated dinner for a select group.  Just don't forget dessert.

  However you decide to celebrate your holiday spirit, make it festive, make it fun and HIRE help.  This is your time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor.  Leave the work to the pros.  Happy Holidays!