Party idea submitted by jasonf Nov 19th, 2009

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   • How To Scale Back Your Holiday Party Without Scaling Back The Fun

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     They say the economy is bouncing back, and holiday party planners are seeing glimmers of light at the end of a very long, cash-strapped tunnel.  Many restaurants and venues are reporting that those companies and organizations that cancelled parties last year due to the poor economy are actually booking parties this year.  Admittedly different from the all-out celebrations in the past, this year’s holiday parties are festive yet smart and responsible.  After all, we’re not out of the woods yet, so it’s still important to watch those pennies!

     Planning an affordable affair doesn’t mean that you have to scrimp on everything.  There are plenty of ways to scale back the party without scaling back the fun.  With these holiday party planning tips, it’s as easy as saying “No” to extravagant overspending and “Yes” to creative thinking and flexibility.  Here are some ways that you can just say “No!”

     No, to entertainment and DJs

     Yes, to iPods and speakers.  Think about it…your feet don’t realize that they’re not grooving to live music.  They’ll just appreciate the fact that an arm and a leg were not sacrificed just to party.  Besides, you now have the flexibility to create a custom playlist that will suit even the most diverse office staff.

     No, to parties that last all-night long

     Yes, to time limits.  Giving guests a 2-3 hour window to celebrate is plenty enough time to have their cake and eat it too!  And, just think of all the money you’ll save on the open bar and room rental fees.  Simply put, it limits your exposure.  Guests won’t be tired out and it gives your pocket a rest, too!  However, be sure to state the beginning and ending time on the invitation so that guests won’t be offended when you turn up the lights.

     No, to catered and peak-time dinners

     Yes, to off-peak parties and potluck dinners.  While it may seem a bit too down home for you to have a Christmas potluck dinner at someone’s home, many partygoers say that it creates a relaxing, cozy environment that fosters fellowship.  At big dinners, you socialize with the people at your table, but when there are no tables, you socialize with everyone.  If you still want a traditional gathering, try Monday/Tuesday night instead of Wednesday-Saturday or a lunch instead of dinner.  It’ll be less expensive.

     No, to buying big holiday gifts

     Yes, to useful party favors and angel trees.  Although many might consider the party itself the gift, it’s still appropriate to send guests home with a token of your appreciation.  Just make sure it’s something they will actually use, like candles, silver-plated bottle openers, festive bottle stoppers or personalized key chains.  Planning an angel tree allows employees to give gifts to each other (rather than the company footing the bill), and might be a great option for a smaller company.  Just be sure to set some parameters on the types and price of the gifts

     Hopefully, these suggestions will help you create a more budget-friendly celebration that will be enjoyed by everyone.  When all is said and done, you might just find that cutting back on some of the “extras” leaves plenty of opportunity for guests to revel in the fun and fellowship we so enjoy during the holiday season.

   • Party Type: Holiday party
   • Tags: fun party ideas your christmas how holiday back budget scale without scaling
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