Planning your company’s holiday party is an exciting opportunity to celebrate the year’s achievements, strengthen team connections, and create lasting memories. However, one of the biggest challenges for event planners is finding the right venue to host the event. The venue sets the tone for the celebration, and with so many options available, choosing the perfect one can feel overwhelming.
To help you navigate the process, here are 5 tips for finding the perfect venue for your company holiday party.
1. Consider Your Goals
The first step in choosing a venue is determining what kind of holiday celebration your company wants. There are a variety of event types you could choose from, such as a formal sit-down dinner, a casual party at a brewery, or a fun night at an “Eatertainment” venue where food and activities such as bowling or arcade games are combined. Is the goal of your holiday party to have an intimate celebration where teammates can talk and share results, or is the goal to celebrate team wins with a fun and engaging activity that will keep everyone busy? The goals of the event will significantly impact your venue choice.
For example, a formal dinner will require a venue with a sophisticated dining setup, while a brewery or activity-based venue may be more appropriate for a casual or interactive celebration. Make sure the venue aligns with the type of experience your company is aiming for to ensure that guests have the best time possible.
2. Location, Location, Location
The venue’s location is a key factor in ensuring maximum attendance. When choosing a location, think about convenience for your guests. Is the venue centrally located? Is there easy access to public transportation or ample parking? The last thing you want is for attendees to struggle to get to the party.
Additionally, consider whether the venue is near hotels or other accommodations if employees will be traveling from out of town. The easier it is for people to get to the party, the more likely they are to attend and enjoy the event.
3. Venue Capacity
Before finalizing any venue, you’ll need to have a clear idea of how many people will be attending. The venue should comfortably accommodate your guest list without feeling cramped. Make sure to research the venue’s capacity limits, and also think about how the space will feel when filled with guests. Too large of a venue can make the event feel sparse, while too small can feel overcrowded and uncomfortable. When searching for a venue on eventup.com, you can easily filter by number of guests to ensure the venue meets your needs.
It’s also important to consider the layout. Some venues have multiple rooms or areas that may work for different parts of the event, such as a cocktail hour followed by dinner in a separate space. Make sure the flow of the event works with the venue's layout.
4. Ambiance and Aesthetics
The venue’s ambiance plays a major role in setting the mood for the party. Does the venue have a festive, warm atmosphere that matches the holiday spirit, or is it more modern and sleek? Consider the existing décor and how easily you can customize the space with your company’s holiday theme. Some venues offer built-in holiday decorations, while others may allow you to bring in your own.
It’s also important to think about lighting and sound. Will the venue’s lighting create the right mood, and does the venue have an adequate sound system if you’re planning on having music or speeches?
5. Catering and Amenities
Food and drinks are central to any holiday party, so it’s essential to ensure the venue can meet your catering needs. If you're not hosting your company holiday party at a restaurant, consider whether the venue has in-house catering or if you will need to bring in an outside vendor. Make sure to ask about menu options, dietary accommodations, and bar packages.
Other amenities to consider include AV equipment for speeches or presentations, Wi-Fi, coat check, and available staff to assist with setup, service, and cleanup. The more services a venue can provide, the less stress you’ll have on the day of the event.
Choosing the perfect venue for your company holiday party doesn’t have to be daunting. By considering the type of event, location, capacity, ambiance, and amenities, you can find a space that will set the stage for a memorable celebration.
Ready to start your search? EventUp.com is the best marketplace to find fun and unique venues for any type of holiday party. From breweries and “Eatertainment” spots to elegant banquet halls and top-rated restaurants, EventUp makes it easy to discover the perfect venue for your company’s holiday celebration. Start your search today!
