Hosting an office celebration in London is a completely different ball game from organising one anywhere else in the country. There is an enormous amount of choice and the market gets even more competitive as December approaches. If you’re looking for Christmas parties in London, planning ahead is key.
How much you have to spend and how many people you are organising for will restrict a lot of your choices. These will ultimately determine the location of your party. For smaller companies, a great option is to hire a room in a local bar or restaurant. For larger companies, converted warehouses and hotel ballrooms are great options.
Make a list of what you can and can’t have as part of your event as this will affect how much you will need to pay. A shared party is a less expensive option and usually includes a three-course meal, entertainment and a nice setting. If you opt for a shared party, keep in mind you and your guests will be sharing the venue with other companies. If you have the budget, an exclusive party gives you control over entertainment, the schedule and the venue. This is a good option if you plan to have a private company event and include speeches and awards. The difference in cost means you get what you pay for.
Bookings for popular party days happen months in advance. Last minute bookings often mean having to host your event on the last work days before the holidays, which means higher prices, less availability, and increased competition for the best venues. There are lots of options in December if your work is flexible enough to have evening or lunch time events. Last minute bookings are also easier if you book during the week and/or during the first few weeks of December.
When thinking about where to have your party, keep in mind that your employees may be traveling from all over the place. Pick a location convenient to one of the bigger train or tube stations and make sure the last service of the day is still running when your employees will be leaving. If your employees travel in from outside the city to get to your office, offering to pay for a taxi to take them to and from their hotel would be a nice surprise.
Of course you also want to make sure to consider your employees that don’t celebrate Christmas by offering an appropriate non-alcoholic option and providing for different dietary restrictions. The music at the party should also not be so loud that your employees can not talk to each other.
Entertainment can make or break an event. Karaoke, quizzes, magicians, casino tables and live bands are great, but in the end it’s your colleagues that will dictate the best form of entertainment. Usually a mixed audience will be happy with some good food, a good DJ, and a few activities to choose from if they wish to take part. Avoid putting individuals on the spot if you’re not 100% sure they’ll have a good time.
Know what you’re paying for. Find out the terms and conditions, and cancellation policies. How will the final numbers be confirmed? What happens if guests drop out? Knowing these terms will help you down the line if you’re ever in a disagreement with the venue.
Consider the consequences. What kind of behavior will be acceptable? What will the impact be? Set the expectations for management and employees. Will a later start time be a good thing? A good event can let employees know they are appreciated and can set the tone for the new year.
You can’t go wrong with a good DJ and activities to keep your colleagues entertained. Choose the right things to do and keep your colleagues in mind. Take advantage of the things London has to offer. A good time can keep employees satisfied for the rest of the year.
For more ideas and options, see christmas parties london.