With Spring just around the corner organised event planners are turning their attention to Christmas parties. Whether you are an Event Manager working for a client, or a PA who has the job of organising the annual ‘shindig’ for the office you will know that to secure the right venue you need to book well in advance of the silly season.
This year it is also likely that you have been asked to keep costs down as business at all levels finds itself with less in the kitty for extravagances. If the thought of this has you scratching your head the key is to use your imagination and think fun! It is easy to stage an event when budget is no issue but a good Event Manager can deliver an exciting event regardless of budget.
So how do you balance the cheque book whilst still giving employees an opportunity to let their hair down and bond after a tough year? The key, according to Directions production manager Thomas Johnson, is to keep it simple (Mice.Net June 2009).
Johnson suggests family fun days such as a picnic that reward both employees and the people who support them. Another great idea according to Johnson is to combine the annual celebration with a team building day that gives something back to the community. The team could be engaged to carry out a ‘working bee’ on a local community centre or build bicycles for disadvantaged children to be followed by a picnic/BBQ style event.
Whatever style of event you choose be clear on your budget before you start. This is not the time to be blowing out and with a bit of creativity you will find that there is no need to. For those of you who struggle creatively and need a little help, don't forget that's what we specialise in here at the Academy of Wedding and Event Planning. Our Event Planning and Design Certificate is geared specifically towards those who would like to hone these skills.