The ultimate guide to throwing a great company party

If you’re in charge of your company’s party preparations, here’s a gift from MOO in the form of our last-minute holiday party tips. 

Getting it right requires a blend of creative thinking, organizational skills and a flair for fun. Either way, here’s how to have an unforgettable company party that staff will remember happily for years to come; if time’s on your side or you’re against the clock.  

Building the buzz for your company party

Here are some of the ways you can generate buzz about your coming event: 

Save-the-date cards

Like an invitation, but with a hint of mystery. The save-the-date card gets the all-important date in staff diaries and starts them thinking about things like who to invite and how to arrange their other commitments around the party. Choose a design that’s in keeping with your party theme but doesn’t give too much away.

Invitations

Follow up on your save-the-date cards with a full invitation that explains where and when the party is happening and everything guests need to know. Include things like the dress code, party theme, a schedule for the night’s dining and entertainment, plus practical details and transport options. Is there a bus stop nearby? Should guests with reduced mobility get in touch with you to arrange access?

Envelopes and RSVP cards

RSVPing via a notecard and envelope is a fun way to get guests feeling the party spirit ahead of time, and it also gives you the chance to collect any special requirements or suggestions guests have for the night. For example, you could ask them to write down a song that will get them up on the dancefloor so you can include it in the DJ setlist.

Awards

Use the occasion as a chance to mark the achievements of staff members with a semi-serious awards ceremony. In advance, you can invite nominations from everyone as a way to build excitement for the event. As well as more serious role-related awards, throw in some jokes like ‘person least likely to make their deskmate’s coffee’ or ‘most fridge leftovers’.

Costume contest

Announce that there will be a prize for the best costume at the party – this news is sure to get the more competitive team members interested, even if you haven’t yet announced the party theme.

Charity donation drive

Turn your party into a chance to share the festive spirit with your community. Ask guests to bring a donation item for your chosen charity, such as canned goods or children’s toys.

Menu cards

A menu card can be placed alongside a buffet, on the bar for cocktail menus, at each table setting, or shared in advance of the day. It can be a handy way to gather information about food preferences and special diets, for example if you have a meat-free main as well as a turkey roast, you can ask guests to tick which one they prefer on the card.

Your party planning checklist

Here’s a handy list of things you might want to arrange for your company party. Of course we’re not saying you need to do all of them – you’re only human, we get it – but this way you won’t forget any essentials. Feel free to download and edit this so you can turn it into your own ultimate party masterplan.

Last-minute party planning  

Now this is the part you’ve all been waiting for. Last-minute holiday party tips. Fashionably late but oh so useful, here’s our guide to save the day (you can thank us later).

Simplify the menu 

Think easy-to-prepare finger foods, store-bought items or order in. Potluck style could be another option too. Get colleagues involved by asking them to bring in their favorite holiday dishes for festive foodie fun. 

Create a festive atmosphere with minimal decor  

String lights can create an instant cozy vibe with little effort. Raid the office decorations to discover what you can repurpose or spruce up. Keep it simple and focus on a few key themed decorations. 

Quick entertainment ideas 

Pop on a pre-made holiday playlist to get the atmosphere going. Set up easy games like charades, holiday Trivia, or festive bingo that require few supplies and are all-around crowd pleasers (hybrid workers can play too.)

Delegate tasks  

Split responsibilities and get other colleagues involved. Someone can be in charge of music, another for games, etc. 

Looking to lighten the load with last-minute party planning? Our MOO business plans are here to support you whether you’re a fresh start-up or a huge global name. We can help you plan and get ready for your party (even with all the designing).

For more advice on business plans simply fill in our short form below and we’ll be in touch.