The holidays are fast approaching. Hammann’s Catering can help you host a holiday party for your employees and keep it all in the budget!

Show your appreciation for your workers’ year-long efforts and celebrate together! Workers bond with one another which is a good step toward team and morale building.

Whether you hold your holiday party on or off company premises, there are many ways for you and your employees to have a good time.

1.  Start planning now
Now is the time to decide what type of party you’d like.  Do you want to have a dinner party at a ballroom or an informal get together at the office? Think about your guest list.  Will employee’s spouses be attending?  

2.  Set the date immediately
“Premium” days in the month of December quickly fill up on caterer’s calendars.

3.  At-the-office mid-week luncheons
A catered luncheon at the office can be less expensive than a restaurant or banquet outing.  Catered foods range in cost and many caterers themselves have a number of menus with a range of selections and prices.  Since this is during the work day, it goes without saying it’s for employees only, so the guest count would not be as high as if it were an evening event.  There would also be additional savings by not having any alcohol.

4.  At-the-office mid-week afternoon mixers
Instead of lunch, host a mixer from 4pm-6pm with light finger foods and beverages.  Consider playing some lighthearted holiday games or activities to add some fun to the festivities.

5.  Have a “Dessert Bake Off” contest
Not everyone bakes, but those who do, usually love to share their goods with friends.  Make it a team effort by asking them to bring a favorite dessert to share.  Make scorecards by each dessert and the winner gets a gift certificate, or time off, lunch with the boss or ???

6.  Off premises parties
Invite your employees and their significant others home. At-home holidays parties have a “warm and cozy” feel to them.  Holding a party at your home can also be a little easier on the wallet than a restaurant or banquet hall party.  Because it is at a private home, you would also be able to furnish your own alcohol, just be sure to consult with your insurance company regarding liquor liability. 

7.  Have the caterer drop it off
Instead of having the expense of a wait staff and bartenders.  Just have the caterer bring everything, set it up, then leave.  

8.  The Big Party
If you do choose to have your party at a hall, there are some ways to hold down costs. Bringing in your own caterer is one way. Parties held on any day but Friday or Saturday are generally less expensive.

9.  Have a “wintertime” party
In January and February the prime dates aren’t filled and you might just get more value for your dollar.  Caterer’s have more availability especially for those businesses that are tied up as well during the holiday season.

10.  Ordering from the menu saves money
For many caterers, their Chefs carefully plan menus to inspire, stay balanced, and have a specific budget in mind.  

11.  Do your best to get an accurate head count
Calculate how many guests you have and plan for that many.

12.  Have a signature cocktail with beer and wine
Full bars come with their price tag, instead come up with a great holiday cocktail that will please your guests and keep the price tag in check.

13.  Fresh and festive décor sets the tone
A couple of decorations and centerpieces can go a long way.   If you have a hands on committee, have them join you and set the room prior to the event.  It’s another great team building exercise that allows for some great creative outlet.

14.  Use a theme
Having a theme helps you focus on what you buy. If you focus on a particular theme and stick to it, you won’t waste money on things that don’t fit that theme.

Contact Hammann’s Catering today to check date availability and start planning a great holiday event for your employees!

513-858-3237                                    hammannscatering@gmail.com