Do you relate to this quote? The upcoming holidays can be expensive for companies. But if you’re on a strict budget, it’s especially challenging to celebrate the holidays with your co-workers and staff without feeling anxious about going into debt.
I remember the conversation last year about many companies were not having a Christmas party, and while it’s understandable that money is tight, it really does bring down the morale of the employees.
I heard several of my friends and colleagues say, “We don’t need a big fancy party like we have received previous year, but we still want to do something. Even just decorating the office and having snacks and drinks would have been nice.”
As you think about your holiday office party this year, think about that all important concept: office morale.
It seems the strength of our country time and time again is shown in these above conversations. We admit we miss the fancy banquets and nice food, but ultimately, we miss the fellowship. If you can still provide this community and fellowship to your employees on a much smaller scale, you win.
So let’s get started. Here are some fun ways to throw a heart-felt party that is not expensive.
Budget - What do you plan to spend on gifts? Decorating? Food? Cards? By setting a dollar limit for each category, you won’t be prone to overspend.
Location – If you can’t afford the country club or restaurant your company has rented out in the past, think about keeping it “in house.” First, because people do like the excitement of simply going somewhere other than the office, does a manager or boss have a nice home that could be used?
Maybe someone has a great backyard that can be decorated or a huge living room? If that is not an option, then if your office is large and you have a good room, I think it’s perfectly fine to keep it at the office. With the proper decorations and atmosphere, you can transform any room into a festive party room.
Decorations – Holiday decorating is one area where things can get out of hand if you’re not careful. First, decide what’s important and what’s not. Let’s face it – you don’t have to win your city or neighborhood award for the best lighted or decorated office.
By limiting yourself to only a string of lights, you’ll feel better when your credit card bills come in the mail in January. To save money, year after year, I would suggest an artificial tree that you can find on sale.
However, if you do have access to a real Christmas tree, it may be more economical to buy a $25 tree. If you’re really strapped for money, then it’s better to celebrate Christmas without buying a tree. Consider a nice wreath or swag for the room. Perhaps decorate each table with a candle or small wreath. String Christmas lights around the room. All these things can create the festive atmosphere without a tree.
Food – Believe it or not, potluck style is a great option. Divide the list up, and assign different people either dessert, entrées, snacks, drinks or their favorite holiday treat. Consider going with a “theme” for your holiday party. Barbecue is a great one. You can get the meat and major entrees from Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q or Bill Miller Bar-B-Q, and then buy items in bulk. If you save money on the main meal, perhaps you can splurge on dessert or drinks.
Gifts – If you can’t get everyone a gift this year, don’t underestimate giving a heartfelt speech. Preparing some heartfelt words about each employee and praising everyone for hard work goes a long way.
Instead of individual gifts, consider announcing a collective gift, such as a new coffee machine that everyone will enjoy. Think of something that will benefit the entire company, and won’t break the bank.
In closing, last year I heard that people just want a sense of community during the holidays. Perhaps this is true for your company or office. As Frederick Koenig wisely said, “We tend to forget that happiness doesn’t come as a result of getting something we don’t have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have.”
This Christmas, don’t underestimate the importance of throwing a party. Even if you have to downgrade a little, your employees will be grateful to have something to celebrate. Sometimes a simple “thank you” really does make all the difference.
Merry Christmas and good luck – you’ve got some party planning to do!
