Preparing A Christmas Party brief:
- How many people do you expect to attend? With partners or without?
- What is the Average age? More of one sex than another? Interests and fashions?
- When are you looking for the event to take place – day of week, is a Friday or a Saturday an option. If you are extremely busy before Christmas don’t overlook the possibility of an event in January. This may also allow you to get better value for money?
- What has this group of people done in previous years? What went well or not so well? What style of event do you think your guests will expect?
- Do you want a private event for your group or would you like to join others in a shared Christmas Party? Alternatively would you like the best of both worlds – arrival drinks and dinner/lunch on your own then entertainment shared with others?
- What is your budget? Who will be paying for the event?
- What format should the event take? Is the plan to have a few drinks, something to eat and then a disco or is your guest audience looking for something else.
- How adventurous can you be? Could you take your guests out of the UK? Would an overnight ferry cruise or Eurostar trip fit the bill. Too far but still fancy a continental theme – day trips to chateau and restaurants in Northern France don’t need to break the bank.
- How will you all get to the event? More importantly how will you all get home afterwards? Where do people have to travel to and from? Is an overnight stay a sensible option –it need not cost as much as you might think?
- Are there any specific dietary or religious requirements that might impact upon the style of event or the type of catering or entertainment provided? Do remember Christmas isn’t celebrated by everyone and not everyone drinks alcohol. Some of your guests may have to drive home or to work the following morning; operate sensitive or mechanical equipment; or work in a challenging environment where they need to be on top form all the time.