Cutting Back? Don’t Toss the Holiday Party Just Yet
With the economy headed in a downward spiral, the first thing many business owners cut in order to preserve cash flow is holiday parties. But companies can throw festive get-togethers to reward employees without breaking the bank. The following tips (provided by a variety of party planners,
- Consider a catered luncheon or after-work party held at the office – a much less expensive alternative to restaurants or banquet halls.
- Instead of a pricy dinner for all employees and their significant other, try menus that are a little out of the ordinary. For example, serve fun finger foods such as chicken wings and finger sandwiches or a dessert buffet with brownies and cookies or an ice cream bar.
- Invite employees to your home for a relaxed holiday party, where they can socialize comfortably and get to know each other.
- If you decide to hold the party at a restaurant or banquet hall, consider doing it during the week – it will be much more affordable!
- Consider cutting the booze – if you dare. You can significantly reduce your overall bill, not to mention some of the inappropriate, awkward, and questionable behavior that can ensue with drinking at a holiday party.
- Buffets tend to be less expensive than sit-down dinners that are served.