Corporate holiday parties are a great way to celebrate the end of the year, show appreciation for employees, and boost morale. A holiday office party is a great opportunity to strengthen your company culture and bring your employees together. They can also be a fun and festive way to build relationships between colleagues.
For corporations, there are several employee benefits to hosting a holiday party, which include:
- Boosting employee morale: A holiday party can be a great way to show employees that they are appreciated. Employees who feel appreciated are more likely to be engaged and productive.
- Building relationships: A holiday party can provide a relaxed and informal setting for employees to socialize and get to know each other better.
- Creating a positive work environment: This can make your company a more attractive place to work.
- Encourages cross-departmental relationships: A holiday office party can be a great opportunity for employees from different departments to interact and learn more about each other’s work.
A well-planned company holiday party can be a powerful marketing tool for your business, offering a unique opportunity to boost brand awareness:
- It helps get your company name out there because inviting potential clients and partners to your party broadens your reach and introduces them to your brand in a relaxed and festive setting.
- It creates effective associations because a fun and memorable party experience leaves a lasting impression, fostering positive brand associations and building goodwill.
- The informal atmosphere of a party encourages casual interactions and fosters deeper relationships with clients and partners.
- It gives potential clients and employees a glimpse into your company culture, attracting top talent who align with your vision.
In addition to the benefits above, here are a few other things to keep in mind when planning your corporate holiday party:
- Be inclusive: Make sure that your party is inclusive of all employees, regardless of their religious beliefs or cultural background.
- Plan activities: The activities should be fun and engaging for your guests.
- Have entertainment: This can help to keep your guests interested and engaged.
- Provide transportation and/or parking: If your guests are coming from out of town, you may need to provide transportation to and from the party. If you are having the party at a venue with limited parking, you may need to arrange for overflow parking.
When it comes to food and wine offerings at the event, it’s important to choose a variety of wines so that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This means selecting wines from different regions and/or grape varieties. You should also include a range of styles, from dry to sweet, light to full-bodied.
I would recommend at least 3 choices of wine for the event:
- Sparkling wine is a festive and versatile option for a holiday party. It pairs well with a variety of appetizers and snacks, and it can also be enjoyed on its own. Consider a Brut Prosecco or Cava for a refreshing and budget-friendly option.
- Red Blends are a good choice for those who enjoy a hearty red wine. Red blends are typically full-bodied and can stand up to heavier holiday fare, while still offering a variety of flavors to please a crowd. Look for a blend that features Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Syrah.
- Riesling is a classic white wine that can be refreshing and sweeter in style. It pairs well with a variety of appetizers, from cheese and charcuterie to lighter fare like grilled chicken or vegetables. It is also a good choice for those who are looking for something a little less dry than a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Bonus Tip: Consider offering a non-alcoholic option for guests who don’t want to drink alcohol, such as sparkling cider or sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice.
As a guest of the holiday party, it is also important to remember that the party is still a work-related event, and there are certain etiquette rules that should be followed:
- Dress appropriately. This means avoiding anything that is too revealing, too casual, or too unprofessional. Aim for a festive but polished look.
- Arrive on time. This shows that you are respectful of your colleagues and the party organizers.
- Introduce yourself to new people. This is a great way to network and make connections with your colleagues.
- Be mindful of your alcohol consumption. It’s okay to enjoy a few drinks, but don’t overdo it. Remember that you are still at a work-related event.
- Don’t gossip or complain about work. This is not the time to air your grievances. Instead, focus on positive and festive conversation.
Overall, it’s important to relax and have fun at the corporate holiday party. Don’t take things too seriously, enjoy the company of your co-workers, and take advantage of the opportunity to leave a lasting positive impression. By following these tips, you can survive the holiday season, have fun, and emerge unscathed and un-humiliated!
Julie Belardinelli is a Fine Wine Concierge and Founder of JAB Wine Ventures working with several wineries such as the Boisset Collection, Vice Wines, Three Sticks Winery, Trothe Vineyards, and Sommsation. She obtained her WSET Level 3 certification in wine/spirits from the International Wine Center in New York City.