Let’s discuss the bread and butter of all party planners during the holiday season… corporate Christmas parties. Now, this post is not only for the professional event planners but for anyone who was assigned to manage the company Christmas party.

I can guess what’s the main focus of your planning worries now… budget! Let’s say the company gave you an amount that you know won’t cover everything that a lavish party needs. It’s time for some strict budgeting, and here are some tips for you to do that…

How to Throw a Company Christmas Party On a Budget

1. Look for Talented Colleagues

If you have a few more weeks before your Christmas party (a week will do if you’re in a crunch), ask some colleagues to prepare a song and dance number for your Christmas program. If you can convince at least 3 groups to perform, you can plan your program around these intermission numbers and save cash on talent fee for professional singers or dancers.

2. Logo Stickers

If you want “instant” corporate party giveaways, you can do a DIY. Have your logo printed on stickers and buy generic party supplies wholesale. You can stick the logo on the items and voila! You have your very own party giveaway with the company logo. If you don’t want the hassle, though, you can allot a sizable portion of your budget on giveaways like custom water bottles, personalized paperweights or calendars. After all, the party might end in a few hours, but your “promotional” giveaways will be with the guests longer.

3. Controlled Buffet

An uncontrolled open buffet might not be a good idea if you plan on feeding a massive crowd. But a buffet is clearly a good choice if you’re serving fingerfood and appetizers instead of a sit-down dinner. To regulate the amount of food that each person consumes (and to make sure that you can feed everyone), request for a controlled buffet. The caterers will take charge of the manpower, and you can quit stressing out over the ratio of food to people you have to feed.