This year, paint the town red, while keeping your budget in the black
As companies cut spending and organizations trend toward cost-saving measures, planning holiday parties can be daunting. Still, celebrating your employees’ hard work is a motivating move that inspires them to achieve more. In fact, a 2008 study of corporate holiday party trends found that 81 percent of businesses surveyed were planning celebrations, even if they were smaller affairs than normal.
How can you throw a spectacular holiday celebration on a shoestring? The answer is simple: Get creative, plan ahead and capitalize on seasonal specials. This year, honor your employees without breaking the bank by following these simple suggestions, shared by the professional event planners at Hornblower Cruises & Events.
1. Book early for the best deals and dates – and be flexible. Thank your team with a November gathering or kick off the new year with an event in January: It just might be more affordable than getting together in December. By planning your event, you’ll choose from the widest selection of dates and options, as well. And, remember that brunches and lunches are often less expensive than dinners. Nearly half of businesses in that 2008 study planned lunchtime holiday parties instead of evening events.
2. Seek support from on-site event planners. Venues often provide professional planning assistance at no additional charge. Look to these experts for insider advice on budget-friendly options – and, capitalize on their industry connections by asking for referrals, donated door prizes and other money saving tips.
3. Take advantage of seasonal promotions and packages. Many venues offer convenient packages that get you the most for your money. Hornblower’s Paint the Town Red specials will help companies celebrate in style, while keeping your budget in the black, with customizable, value-packed deals ranging from modest champagne cruises to all-inclusive sit-down dinners with special amenities.
4. Look for distinctive locations and activities. Consider outings that engage employees, and choose creative locations. Volunteer to build trails at a local park and follow it up with a company-sponsored picnic. Visit a museum. Book a cruise, organize an afternoon of wine tasting or take a group cooking class in your own backyard. In the corporate holiday party survey, 77 percent of employers were planning off-site holiday parties and 74 percent planned to participate in charitable activities, including volunteering, during the season.
