Christmas party concepts

The purpose of Christmas parties is not only to close a given year, but also to serve as the beginning for the next year. There are two types of Christmas parties organised by companies. One is for employees only, while clients and partners are also invited to the other. The choice of location depends on the budget available. – Most employees subconsciously measure how highly their work is regarded by the quality of such events. Organisers should be aware that these events are gestures, a way of saying thank you to employees for their work – says Karolina Korom, managing director of Bell’Art Rendezvényszervező Kft. Companies usually prefer to have classic Christmas parties with “food and drink” and are wary of unconventional ideas. There is however, some demand for unique and creative ideas. Events organised around a specific theme like ancient Egypt, or the Wild West are very successful. Parties for employees often reflect the image of the company. More extravagant parties are held by more youthful companies, for example from the telecommunication or advertising industries. Regarding the scene of the event, new options are becoming popular. These include caves, constructions sites and heated tents. Company dinners cost a minimum of HUF 10-12,000, but can be several times more expensive. December is the peak season for parties, especially the 14th and 21st, because these are Fridays. One third of company events are held on these two days, which means the best places and entertainers are booked several months in advanced. Popular places are usually booked by mid-October. Sometimes these are booked for years in advance. There are so many events in the end of the year period that many guests are not able to attend every party they are invited to – says Karolina Korom. Good food, quality drinks and nice service are essential to a Christmas party. There is no excuse for bad food or wine. The significance of gifts is declining, with less money being spent on them by companies. It is important to know our partners in order to make our gift personal. Being personal is not important for protocol gifts, their purpose is to convey a message about the company. It is also advisable to use a courier to deliver gifts and alcoholic beverages should always be sent in a presentation box Too cheap or too expensive gifts might both be contra-productive. When budgets are limited, more important partners should get the gifts and the less important ones should only be sent Christmas cards. The positive effects of successful parties can last for months. Christmas parties are not only a means of improving team spirit, but also serve to develop more personal relations with clients.