Reinventing the office holiday party: How to create an exciting and memorable event
Holiday parties are business as usual for Paule Labelle, cofounder of Montreal-based event planning firm Cava Rose. We asked her to reveal some of her secrets for an unforgettable office party.
When picking a theme for your office holiday party, the most important thing is that it reflects your company’s DNA, notes Labelle. It’s the perfect opportunity to create an event in your image and to get off the beaten paths! Anyone can buy decorations and put on a playlist — but the real difference lies in the details.
A traditional Christmas, reinvented
It’s a classic for a reason – and one of Paule’s personal favourites. At first glance, there’s nothing particularly special about a traditional Christmas, unless you put your own spin on it. Transform your office party into a convivial family affair inspired by the Christmas Eve celebrations of yesteryear. A nostalgic and warm atmosphere is sure to win over the hearts of your guests.
Start with the basics: long communal tables dressed with plaid tablecloths, a sumptuous tree, a gas fireplace, and a few warm blankets will help create an intimate and cozy chalet-style atmosphere. Instead of decorating the venue with pre-made and often tacky Christmas decorations, Paule suggests turning to local artisans whose quality products will give your tables a much more unique look.
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Once the bases are covered, it’s time to step up your game: hire a professional chef who will be able to put a modern spin on holiday classics such as turkey, tourtière, and the traditional Yule log. You’ll surprise your guests while appealing to their nostalgic side.
At the bar, serve sparkling wine to toast to another year together, mulled wine or cider for those who wish to warm up, and a delicious cranberry cocktail.
Ask the DJ to mix holiday classics with modern tunes, a sure-fire way to get the party started! Paule also suggests asking employees to submit special requests in advance. It’s a great way to make everyone feel like they’re part of the planning phase and to offer each guest their own special moment.
If your budget allows it, you should also retain the services of professional musicians to truly set the dance floor on fire in true traditional fashion!
A very British Christmas
In certain sectors, it’s becoming more and more common to host the office holiday party during business hours. After all, we’re dealing with the busiest time of the year and, as everyone’s calendar fills up, it can be tricky to find a date that’ll suit everyone.
Give your employees the afternoon off and invite them to take part in an elegant British affair. You’ll want to serve tea, sparkling wine and cocktails, along with pastries and hors-d’oeuvres. Don’t forget scones and the famous Yorkshire Pudding (which is not pudding at all, but a true holiday staple in England).
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A generous grazing table, white tablecloths and porcelain tableware will give your event a distinguished atmosphere that will surely impress.
Paule enthusiastically points out that Christmas parties revolving around a destination are her favourites — and they’re usually a hit! “You can really get creative and put together a great party that people will remember!”
Christmas in Havana
If a British Christmas seems just a bit too tame for your taste, simply change the destination! Among Paule’s favourite events organized by Cava Rose is a unique holiday party inspired by the wild nights of Havana. For one night, give your employees the opportunity to fly to Cuba to party the night away! (Not literally, of course.)
Encourage your guests to dress up for the occasion: fedora hats, colourful dresses and floral prints are a nice change of pace from seasonal sweaters! Decorate the venue with exotic flowers and fruits, bright colours and string lights.
On the menu: grilled everything! Get inspired by Cuban street food and offer your guests a wide array of exotic flavours. Staples include Cuban churros, fried plantains, grilled corn, shrimp and pork skewers, etc.
At the bar, rum is king! Create a rum tasting station where guests can sample different varieties, or make up your own fresh and flavourful signature mojito.
And, of course, a Cuban night wouldn’t be complete without some live music to make sure your guests hit the dance floor until the wee hours to the frantic rhythms of rumba. Give your employees a night they’re unlikely to forget!
Pro tips for a smooth night
It’s no secret that office holiday parties are often quite inebriated. It’s an opportunity for employees to let loose and that’s why we like them! But to avoid sticky situations, a few precautions are in order.
First, decide on a game plan regarding alcohol: will there be an open bar or will you distribute coupons to limit the amount of drinks per person? Will you serve spirits or only wine and beer?
Paule Labelle recommends setting up a “key check” where guest can leave their car keys upon arrival, as well as a breathalyser to test blood alcohol levels before hitting the road. She also strongly advises hiring an external security service to limit awkward situations! (Who wants to be the one to tell their boss they can’t take their car?)
📸Cava Rose
Last but not least, don’t hesitate to turn to a designated driver service, such as Point Zéro 8, to drive people home at the end of the night. Better safe than sorry!
For our rates and availability, please contact Emmanuel Goubard at emmanuel@entrepotsdominion.ca!