DON'T TAKE OUR WORD
“A huge thank you for the fantastic performances at our wedding, the dance floor was filled from beginning to end, the band helped make our day even more special. All our guests commented on how great you were, and how aching their feet were the next day from dancing. They loved you and so did we...amazing...simply amazing.”
LATEST NEWS
April 2012
Saturday 19th May 2012
As You Like It, Newcastle.
0191 281 2277
FREE ENTRY before 10pm,
£5 after.
Sets start at
10:30, 11:30, 12:30.
News Archive »
Planning a successful Christmas Party with live music,
By North East Party band Funk Conspiracy.
Why have a Christmas Party?
Whether you are part of a large company, in the public sector, or even a small business you can’t help but be affected by these times of ‘austerity’ and tight budgeting everywhere. It is during these times that we most need to keep morale as high as possible.
If you are going to have an event to bring people together for some fun to lift their spirits, Christmas is the time. Let’s have a party and launch into the new year with optimism, looking towards the good times ahead. Convinced? Great! Then let’s look at some of the key factors in organising this thing.
Timing your Christmas Party
Traditionally most people hold their Christmas Party between the start of December and the week leading up to Christmas. The two weeks before Christmas is especially common. However in some industries with seasonal demand there is just no way of finding the time in December, so some businesses move their party to January. This loses some of the pre Christmas excitement but is certainly a better idea than moving the party earlier into November. You will likely find that people are not ready to party in November!
Even if you are concerned about possible severe weather in December, sometimes there is nothing for it than to just go for it. You could choose a day time event but an evening event, and more importantly one which is not followed by a work day, is obviously the best for letting your hair down.
Choosing a Christmas Party venue
If you plan your party early then you will have a larger choice of Christmas Party venues, especially for popular nights. Check the bar prices in the venue, if they are reasonable then it will help lower inhibitions and get people in the mood. You may want to find a venue which serves good food, and a buffet style service can save you a lot of money that can go towards entertainment instead!
If you plan to have a band then the venue may have a stage although this is not essential, what is more important is that the dance floor is not a huge exposed area directly between the seated audience and the band. Think whether the first few dancers will feel comfortable up there, this allows the atmosphere to grow.
Your Christmas Party Itinerary
Some Christmas Parties have with a theme, such as ‘Night at the Movies’ for example. In our experience this can often mean an unnecessary expense, although it does help to have some room dressing to set the atmosphere.
Live music entertainment is at the core of many successful Christmas Parties. Choose a band with a well balanced set list to please all ages. Make sure they have good control over their sound and will play at a volume that is right for the venue. A good DJ can be very useful if your party goes on late past midnight however you may be able to save money again by using the bands PA with your own ipod playlist. If you do want a DJ ask your band or venue for recommendations.
Keep speeches and awards short, but make sure you do something to help foster a feeling of togetherness. Lastly, enjoy all your hard work as an organiser and have a great Christmas Party!
Written by Richard Owen.
