You may think that it’s a bit early to start planning your holiday party, but now’s the ideal time! First things first, if you haven’t chosen a venue as of yet, “Site-Selection” should be at the top of your list, so start looking immediately! The same goes for booking entertainment. Whether live music, DJ’s, interactivities, and/or name talent, availability goes quickly!
When planning your holiday party, here are the items that need to be addressed, in order of priority:
1) SET A BUDGET: Prioritizing what’s most important to you is the key. If you end up going over budget, you might have to sacrifice important details and/or reduce your guest list.
2) CREATE YOUR INVITATION LIST: Getting a good idea of the number of guests attending will help tremendously when selecting the right location and budgeting for items such as catering, entertainment, and decor.
3) FOCUS IN ON THE “LOCATION” FOR YOUR EVENT:
• Allow time to preview and compare a number of venues. Composing and marking off your checklist will help make your decision so much easier!
• Take into consideration where your guests will be travelling “from and to” when selecting the “location” of your holiday party. Remember – The venue is the first item on your list to be secured once you’ve organized your invitation list, so work on that ASAP!
• Last point regarding “location” – By getting a head start and selecting the site for your event, you’ll be able to send out invitations well in advance so your guests can put the date on their calendar.
4) DECIDE ON A “SIT-DOWN” OR “BUFFET-STYLE” DINNER: You’d be surprised at the price differential! Depending on which option you choose will help you decide what you can budget for the other requirements for your holiday party, such as entertainment, décor, and lighting.
5) DECIDE ON A “FULL” OR “PARTIAL” BAR: Focusing in on one or two “signature” drinks, along with non-alcoholic beverages, will once again allow you to budget for other items of importance for your holiday party.
6) CREATING THE RIGHT ATMOSPHERE: Think about “ambiance”! The atmosphere of your holiday party sets the tone for the evening. Elements such as Music, Entertainment, Decor, & Lighting are especially important in helping to set the mood and contribute to the success of your event.
7) TO THEME or NOT TO THEME: Deciding on whether to incorporate a theme to your holiday party will help you decide if you want to customize your entertainment, décor, and invitations. Keep in mind that when customizing your party, you’ll be adding to your overall budget, so think and plan carefully.
So remember, by following the prioritized steps above, you’ll not only make your job that much easier, but it will help you create a most successful and memorable holiday event!
Want to make your job even easier? Let us help! Here at Gene Press Productions, we provide the following services:
• Music, Interactive Entertainment, & Name Talent
• Site Selection & Off-Site Catering
• Décor, Floral, & Lighting
• Photography & Videography
• Invitations & More…