Do you have a big event coming up for your business? If so, then you may be thinking of creative ways to make a big splash. Big corporate events can also mean big business. You can get the media involved, publish press releases, and more to help create buzz about your company and to keep people talking. One of the best ways is by hosting a holiday themed event or business meeting. However, planning an event, business meeting or conference around the holidays can be a bit of a challenge. Fortunately, Unique Venues can help. Here are 4 holiday planning tips with Unique Venues.
- Pick a date that works around the holidays AND your employees vacations. The first thing you should do when planning your event around the holidays is to pick the date. Pick the date as early as possible (6 months or more in advance is ideal). Naturally, you don’t want to plan your event during the same week as the holiday or you may end up with poor attendance. However, you’ll also want to keep your guests such as your employees in mind. Many employees choose to have extended vacations around the holidays. Take these vacations into consideration so you can be sure to plan your event around it. You’ll want your event to be in the same month as the holiday, but during a sensible time that will result in a high attendance rate.
- Book your venue in advance. Once you set the date you’ll want to book the venue. It is important to find a venue that captures the spirit of the event or allows you to create the ambiance you desire. It is crucial to book your venue as far in advance as possible. Venues are in high demand during the holidays due to large holiday parties, charity events, and more. If you wait too long to book one you may risk not being able to reserve a spot at all. Book your venue at least 6 months in advance if at all possible.
- Incorporate the holiday into your event…within reason. If you’re going to host your event around the holidays you’ll be expected to throw in a bit of holiday cheer, too. However, you may have to be cautious with how you go about incorporating the holiday theme into your event. For example, if your event takes place in the winter you may want to add some Christmas cheer to your event, but keep in mind not everyone celebrates Christmas. Integration of Hanukah and/or Kwanza decorations is recommended to be inclusive to those celebrating these holidays. Also, keep in mind the tone of the event. Charity events for children may call for more holiday cheer than a big corporate meeting. Decorations are always fine, but you may want to keep it to a minimum for more serious events.
- Be considerate. Different people celebrate or react to holidays in different ways. Some people love them while others have a hard time due to loss of family members and friends or other issues. Also, some people may plan annual vacations or time with their families. Try to work with your employees or guests to schedule an event that everyone can easily attend and feel comfortable at. Create a list of “What-ifs” in advance so that you can think of solutions for any problems before they arise.
Have you ever held a business or corporate event, meeting, or conference around the holidays? What did you do to make it memorable? What do you wish you would have done different? Leave a comment and let us know!
