The holiday season is approaching at lightspeed. Before we know it, the halls will be decorated and the holiday music will be playing everywhere we turn. With many employers still working remotely, or on a hybrid schedule due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a 2021 holiday party is the perfect way to reunite your team in a safe, yet, festive environment.
Here are some things to consider when booking your company holiday party
1. Timing
Let’s face it, December is one of the busiest times of year for everyone. Instead of trying to squeeze in one more event, consider hosting an event in January after things have calmed down. Or, think outside the box and consider nontraditional times and dates.
Afternoon Celebrations:
Consider hosting a lunch or late afternoon event where employees can attend during work hours. With this option, you can also keep the guest list limited to employees only. Since this is not normally a peak time for venues, you can lower costs and reduce the obligations on employees’ personal times and commitments.
After-Meeting Cocktail Reception
With a full conference center, The Four Points by Sheraton Norwood has flexible space available for all meeting sizes. Consider combining a meeting with your holiday party and checking off two events at once. End your meeting with a cocktail hour celebration in our all-new Zachariah’s or the Tiffany Ballroom foyer. Heavy passed hors d ‘Oeuvres or action stations are perfect for this type of holiday party celebration.
Evening Celebration:
If you do decide to go with an evening event, take into consideration your employees schedule as well as the operating hours of your company. Booking on a weeknight, or Sunday evening will help keep your budget in check however may be inconvenient if those attending must work early the next day. When asking employees to spend their free time at a work event, you’ll want to consider allowing them to bring a date with them which will impact your guest count. With an evening event, it is nice to set up a block of rooms at a discounted rate in case any of your guests prefer not to drive home after the party.
2. Venue
Having your party outside the office allows employees to connect on a more personal level, encouraging them to not talk only about business but to get to know each other. The Four Points by Sheraton Norwood has event space accommodating 40 people, in our One Bistro private dining room, to 500 people in our Tiffany Ballroom. Take advantage of our seasoned catering sales managers who can assist you with planning a delectable menu, talk through options for the bar and help coordinate décor and entertainment. Onsite overnight accommodations are a bonus!
3. Holiday Party Menu
Our Catering Sales team is here to help create a menu that will fit all your guests needs and your budget. At the Four Points by Sheraton Norwood, we provide all the catering in-house, so it’s a breeze to pick from one of our pre-made menus or we can easily customize a menu for you. Whether you’re looking for a casual event with stationed food and passed hors d ‘Oeuvres, an elaborate buffet, or an elegant-plated dinner, we assist with putting together a menu to please even the most discerning guests!
4. Entertainment
Entertainment is the key to a successful event, and the possibilities are endless! Consider interactive activities like gift swaps, photo booth, give away prizes/raffles or other fun group activities, these can all be done with minimum contact and spaced out to accommodate a bit of social distancing. Everyone loves leaving a holiday party with a great gift!
To end the year with a big celebration- ask about adding our Preferred DJ service to your event for a night of non-stop dancing! Not sure people will want to dance? Our Catering Managers are here to assist you with alternative options. From casino nights to game shows and trivia, we have access to some of the best entertainment in the industry!
5. Décor and Theming
Having a theme is a way to bring a bit more festivity into the event. You can incorporate your theme in the invitations, centerpieces, themed food stations or, even, contests. Consider a Tropical Holiday, Winter Wonderland, Ugly Sweaters, or Holiday’s Around the World theme. Our catering team can assist with all aspects of your holiday party planning to ensure your theme is on point!
The holiday season is well known for being full of joy and excitement, and although 2021 has been full of challenges and ups and downs, it is important to let your employees know just how much you value them. Call us today to let us help you plan a great holiday party celebration! 781-255-3159 tiffanyballroom@hobbsbrook.com