How to Host a Holiday Work Party

As the holiday season approaches, there are creative ways to mix business with pleasure and show your gratitude to your co-workers, clients or referral sources. When hosting a business dinner, dessert or cocktail party at home, the key to an unforgettable event is careful planning. Your creative ideas will make guests feel honored and show how much you appreciate them. The important thing to remember is that attention to detail will be your greatest ally.

We asked Tony Conway, owner of A Legendary Event to comment on party ideas for working women!

• Customize Your Event:  Show off your signature style with fabulous details. Based on the event type, be clear on the dress code.  State if it is an open invitation for guests or if just a significant other is included. Be aware of dietary restrictions and holiday traditions that can apply to all of your guests.  It might take extra time to accommodate guests’ tastes and needs, but it’s possible and goes a long way.

• Be Inviting: It’s an opportunity to make a good impression and welcomes your guests at first sight. Once guests RSVP and arrive at your party, create an inviting atmosphere by properly introducing guests to each other. Never assume that everyone in the room knows one another. Be present for your guests and honor them by giving them your full attention. 


• Don’t Talk Business: As the evening moves forward, engage with everyone and keep conversations flowing among guests.  When possible, refrain from talking about business, since the entire idea of entertaining guests is to get to know them better.  Encourage new business by making him or her feel welcomed.

• Keep it Organized: Show off your party-throwing talents by seamlessly organizing the event, keeping it running smoothly, and staying cheerful and relaxed. This will inevitably make you stand out from other prospective companies.

• Try Something Different: Go for the unusual and be distinctive. Serve appetizers on colorful clipboards, have lots of colorful flowers, or select one color and go with it.  Add an element of surprise: from a signature punch to a party on the patio or rooftop of your building. Think outside the dining room!

• Don’t Overdo the Entertainment: Leave room for business. A simple toast to everyone’s sweet success in the coming year with a fabulous dessert bar will do the trick.  If any of your guests enjoying singing or piano playing, invite them to be the pop-up entertainment.

A memorable party will set you apart from competitors and help you strengthen the ties within the company, between your co-workers, clients or prospective customers.

For more, visit www.alegendaryevent.com.