Planning the Perfect Office Christmas Party

Planning an office Christmas party in Inverness?

The job of planning the office Christmas party can often be a daunting prospect. How on earth can you please everyone? But fear not! We are here to help with our trusty Kingsmills Events Planners on hand and a wide choice of Christmas party options. Furthermore, you’re not alone in feeling anxious! The time constraints and pressure of organising the perfect party is undoubtedly a stressful ordeal.

As soon as possible you should start thinking about your Christmas planning. You may not yet feel the festive spirit but if you want your work celebration to run smoothly and be a big hit, then planning and organisation is the key. Be aware that no matter how far away December 25th seems, venues start filling up rapidly after the summer holidays.

Here are a few useful pointers from us on planning the perfect office Christmas party:

1. Thinking Ahead: Set Xmas Party Dates & Budgets

The festive period is a busy time of year and bookings fill up fast. Therefore, it’s never too early to get your office Christmas party date in the diary. As soon as summer is over, our festive bookings start rolling in fast, so aim to have a date set as soon as possible. Remember, opting for midweek party night dates can make your budget go further. But, if you pick a weekend night, you may be in for more of a celebration as your guests won’t be pressured by the need to work the following day. 

When you have set your Xmas party date, send out a group email, set up a private Facebook group or put up a notice in the staff room asking all of your colleagues to keep the date free.

In addition, it’s also helpful to get an idea of your budget per head as early as possible. This will help with later decisions on Christmas menus, Xmas party venue options, entertainment etc.

2. What’s Your Christmas Party Vision?

Planning the perfect party, you probably already have a vision in mind. So, it’s now time to gather all your party planning ideas and get the ball rolling. There are lots of different types of office Christmas parties to consider. First of all, write down a list of options and ask your colleagues what they would like to do. Much of this will depend on the size of your group and the date you have set.

• Think about who’s coming. Are partners invited or just colleagues?
• Are you going for a Christmas lunch, Xmas dinner, or a festive party night in Inverness?
• Are you looking for a private dinner or event, or would you rather join a larger party with other businesses?
• What sort of entertainment would you like? Disco, ceilidh or an atmospheric meal with background music?
• Are you looking for an overnight stay or just a party package?

3. Picking the Perfect Party Venues in Inverness

Now you’ve set the date and know what type of party you’re looking for, it’s time to “view your venues”! Most of all, you should now have a rough idea of numbers and Xmas party preferences by this point.

So bring on the fun! Our Festive Brochure has a comprehensive list of Kingsmills Hotel Christmas party package options. While we offer set packages, we do also have an amazing range of private dining options in Inverness for bespoke Christmas party nights. Simply contact our events team and pop in for a show round. Our enthusiastic team will talk you through options, private dining venues, party menus and party decorations.

As soon as you pick your perfect setting, we will hold your space provisionally so you don’t lose it, with a deposit. We recommend that you gather in an initial deposit from your guests prior to confirming your venue selection.

4. Mouth-watering Menus

While you may be planning a party extravaganza, you can be sure of an intimate and personal delivery from our team.  We are known for our outstanding service and food standards, regardless of party size. You can, therefore, rest assured that there will be no complaints from your guests once they walk through our doors. In addition, you can look forward to a mouth-watering experience browsing through our menu options! Pick from our Head Chef’s set menu options or create your own to suit your guests, party theme and budgets.

5. Cocktails & Canapes

Almost there! Now it’s time to add on the trimmings. Do you want additional experiences added to your package with Christmas cocktails and canapes, or perhaps a dram before dinner? Would you like to tailor your experience with a lone piper and decoration? Fancy a little R&R prior or post party? Book a round of golf or browse our spa treatments. In addition, if you are holding a private party, we can guide you through colour schemes, candy carts, photographers and extras. If you opt for one of our party nights you will be sure to be in for a treat, with plenty of surprises on the night and all the hard work done for you. But for now, its time to think about your tables.

5. Place Settings & Party Favours

Once you have all booked, planned and announced, it’s time to get down to detail. While you may wish to let people go with the flow and sit where they please, sometimes place settings can help keep conversation flowing, with everybody feeling part of the party. Furthermore, you may wish to include icebreakers on your tables, such as charade cards, crackers and games. These can really kick-start the party and help your guests relax. If you are organising an official Christmas party for your corporation, party favours at each place are a nice addition to thank your staff, customers and/or partners for a successful year together. Speak to our team for inspiration on your party gift ideas. We are here at your service, making your dreams come true for the best in festive parties in Inverness.

Bring Your Office Christmas Party To Life

So, now you’re all set! If you’re looking for an office Christmas party venue in Inverness, at the Kingmills Hotel we have a wide range of options to please even the pickiest of party-goers. From festive lunches to large pre-planned party nights, from top discos to the best ceilidhs, from bespoke private dining to afternoon teas, we will take care of the details for you. Rest assured, you can let your hair down and enjoy the fun.

A little extra indulgence… Take advantage of our luxury hotel accommodation and party until the “wee sma hours” without any worries about getting home. We have party night special rates for overnight stayers. To book please call us on 01463 257 140 or get in touch.