As December kicks off the office Christmas party season, last
minute party planners in search of value for money, should focus on five
key areas to avoid disappointment.
Last minute bookings continue to be a popular trend among
organisers whether it is because they want the best deal to fit budgets,
or simply because they have not had the time to implement their plans.
As such it has become essential for suppliers to prepare for this type
of booking and to ensure they are able to alleviate the pressures of
planning a last minute party.
There is still time
to plan a great party for colleagues; while time pressures and budget
concerns continue to drive the nature of last minute bookings, I have
put forward a five point plan to guarantee successful party planning
over the next two weeks.
Budget: Assessing what can be
spent is the first step in any event planning, let alone last minute
parties. This will avoid any unnecessary conversations about niceties,
keeping the planning focused on the necessitates.
Guests: From
final numbers to food preferences, guests are the main priority when it
comes to the Christmas party. Agreeing these final details will narrow
down choices to enable you to choose an appropriate environment and
venue that is suitable and convenient for all.
The When and Where: With guests in mind, deciding on time and place will be the next step.
Different
options are becoming available to suit the varying business needs of
companies. An increasingly popular trend is the ’early doors’ approach
such as a post-work drinks reception. This leaves options open for
guests to attend the party and still catch the last train home, or to
continue with the merriment all night long..
Trusted Suppliers: With
time pressures a concern, it’s important to use a supplier that is
proven and trusted to have the experience of accommodating last minute
bookings. From catering to music and decorations, finding a trusted
venue or supplier that can provide all in one will cut planning time
down significantly.
Don’t Panic: With the plan in the hands of the right people, all that’s left to do is make sure you and your guests enjoy themselves.
IET
Venues first found that last minute bookings were on the rise in 2010
when research revealed that more than one third (37 per cent) of
respondents claimed to be looking to book events only one to three
months in advance. Just six per cent of respondents claim to book events
more than 12 months in advance.
With 51 per cent of respondents
having stated that cost was the deciding factor when booking a last
minute event, IET Venues emphasises the importance of responding to
enquiries swiftly, to ensure these increasingly short-term bookings are
fulfilled, as well as a need for bespoke all inclusive packages to
ensure value for money.
Any comments? Email sarah@mashmedia.net
