Hosting An Affordable Staff Party!
Hosting a holiday staff party on a budget can still be festive and enjoyable with some creativity. So, embrace the creative challenge to keep it new and interesting each year. Here are some affordable ideas:
Venue
Use the Office Space: Transform your workplace with decorations for a cozy and familiar setting.
Local Community Centers: Check for inexpensive rental options. This is the option that I prefer, just note that there could be insurance and lisence around the use of alcohol on the premise. Ensure you have 2 documented designated drivers posted!
Home Gathering: If someone is willing, hosting at a colleague’s home can save costs.
Food and Drink
Potluck Style: Ask employees to bring a dish to share. Provide a few essentials like desserts or drinks. This is the method that I prefer. You get to try new foods and recipes!
Appetizers and Finger Foods: Skip a full meal and focus on simple, cost-effective snacks.
BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage): Supply basic drinks and let attendees bring their favorites. In the past I have gifted the drinks, however, not many people drank and this can be a more cost effective way for all to enjoy while saving you some dough! A hot chocolate bar is also a creative way that is cost effective!
Decorations
DIY Decorations: Use homemade or office supplies for decorations, like paper snowflakes or string lights. I light to pick up a balloon bouquet every year as it give you instant themed and festive vibes for a low cost.
Dollar Store Finds: Affordable holiday-themed decor can create a festive atmosphere. This can also be an easy way to find smaller team gifts for trivia etc. I like to put an array of ornaments in a stocking to choose from.
Repurpose Decorations: Reuse items from previous years to save money. We always get themed table cloths and use the same center pieces.
Entertainment
Holiday Games: Organize inexpensive games like trivia, gift exchanges (e.g., White Elephant), or bingo. We always enjoy the “bring an item from home” gift exchange to keep things interesting!
Music Playlist: Use free streaming services to set up a festive playlist. Ensure you download the list incase you book a location with spotty service. Always bring a good speaker to increase and decrease the volume during the reindeer games. I prefer the bose wireless. Also, bring your charger!
Photo Booth: Create a DIY photo booth with props like Santa hats and reindeer antlers. Don’t forget tape to post the backdrop without ruining the rental wall!
Gifts and Prizes
Affordable Tokens: Consider small, meaningful gifts like handwritten notes, coffee shop gift cards, or homemade treats.
Raffles: Organize a raffle with one or two inexpensive but desirable prizes.
Other Tips
Theme Party: Pick a low-cost theme (like "Ugly Sweater") that encourages fun without spending. We also held a tropical Christmas, who doesn’t have beach items to bring?!
Virtual Party (if remote): Save on costs by hosting an online celebration with activities like trivia or a costume contest.
Collaborate with Local Businesses: Partner with local vendors for discounts or sponsorships.
A little planning and a focus on togetherness can make any holiday party memorable, no matter the budget! I have also hosted family friendly parties with reindeer games that all could participate in. Even the children had a blast! It’s always worth the effort to bond in a smaller group outside on work, and with a little healthy competition. Happy Celebrating!