Get Ready For the Holidays!
Summer is winding down, and while many of us are focused on making the most of the warm weather while we still have it, event planners are shifting their focus to the next big season: Christmas. Whether you plan on renting out a space for your company party or keeping the festivities in-house, the focus is the same: to celebrate the holidays with family and friends, and show appreciation for your employees for another year of a job well done. For those of you who are thinking ahead, Kapture has tracked down the top five trends for making this year’s company party one that the guests will talk about long into 2012.
1) Art. Give the guests something to look at. Art installations have become a popular decorative idea for company parties. Hire a local artist to display his/her photos or paintings – they will get the exposure they need and your guests will have an appealing diversion from small talk.
2) Live entertainment. 
Advertising a “main event” will give your guests something to look forward to. A popular trend this year is to provide global entertainment; a duo of flamenco dancers or a trio of Chinese acrobats will evoke delighted “oohs” and “ahhs” from your guests. A short performance is a great way to temporarily break up the mingling and bring everyone together to enjoy the same experience.
3) Throw a themed party.
The first decorating theme that comes into everyone’s mind when they hear the word Christmas is: red and green. Break away from the pack! Throw a “Winter Wonderland” party to celebrate the season with a more pleasing color palate. Think snowflakes and twinkling lights to envelop your guests in the most pleasant snowstorm they have ever stepped into. Or if you really want to throw them for a loop, plan a Casino Night or a Hollywood-themed party. After all, the whole point is for everyone to relax and have fun together, right?
4) Go Green.
Being “green” is a huge trend right now, so why not make your guests feel good about letting loose? Showcase bamboo plates and utensils at the buffet table. If you are renting furniture, look for natural and sustainable products that look nice without the environment paying the price. Carry the green theme into your decorating as well, showcasing fresh plants and flowers that create a beautiful and serene space. If you don’t have space in the office for all the newly acquired foliage, raffle off or give away the pieces at the end of the night. Getting flowers will put a smile on anyone’s face.
5) Take pictures.
Posing for a picture with your date isn’t just for high school proms anymore. In this digital age, everyone wants to have plenty of photos to record their rendezvous and share the experience with social network friends. Hire a photographer to snapshot your guests paparazzi-style as they enter the party. Setting up a theme-appropriate photo area is a good way for your guests to remember the night with all smiles. Or, renting a photo booth is a fun way for guests to capture the memory.
Whatever you choose to do to entertain your employees and their guests this holiday season, remember to stick to your theme, stay true to your style, and most importantly, have a great time!!
