FCM Meetings & Events has developed a comprehensive guide to hosting a standout end-of-year corporate celebration, based on advice by events experts. According to Eventbrite, 66% of businesses in Australia host end-of-year events for staff. 85% of employers report that their Christmas parties have a positive effect on team morale.
“End-of-year event planning … can look like a mountain of work on top of your regular responsibilities,” said Livia Carrier, head of events at FCM Meetings M&E. Choosing a venue, theme, entertainment, gifts and food are some of the main challenges, but there are other key factors that Carrier says are often overlooked.
“It’s important to ensure you’re respecting diverse cultural identities and holidays, considering accessibility and being sustainable … [Our] tips will help planners create an inclusive and enjoyable experience for everyone.”
These are some of the key takeaways:
Venue choice and preparation Define requirements: Identify attendee capacity and specific requirements such as AV, dining and entertainment early on Budget management: Ensure the venue fits your budget by negotiating packages and setting aside a contingency budget for unexpected expenses. Read all contracts to avoid hidden fees Early planning: Book at least six months in advance to secure the best venues and deals Accessibility: Ensure the venue is convenient for all attendees, including – good transport links, parking and accommodation for remote workers. Ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms and seating are also important
Activities for the whole group All-encompassing activities: plan activities that all attendees can enjoy, such as interactive stations and workshops Quiet spaces: set up quieter ‘breakout’ areas where attendees can talk and relax, with comfortable seating Considerate scheduling: Avoid major holidays and establish a diverse planning committee to avoid clashes Dietary accommodations: Provide a variety of food options that cater to different dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergy-friendly) and label all food items clearly to ensure informed choices
Sustainability practices Book sustainable venues: Choose venues with documented sustainability practices such as energy-efficient lighting, waste reduction programs, on-site recycling and composting facilities Choose sustainable catering: Choose caterers using locally-sourced, organic and seasonal ingredients. Include plant-based meal options, use reusable or biodegradable dishware and donate or compost leftover food
To read the full guide, click here.
