Top 6 2012 Holiday Event Planning Tips

Chilly weather says it all; the holiday season is just around the corner, and you can't wait for the parties & holiday events to start. It's fun to be an attendee at these holiday events or parties, but when you are the organizer, the picture is hectic. You have every reason to be stressed out with looming deadlines and limited budgets. Gloomy economic climate and reduced corporate spending are dampers to your plan. Well, here are the top 6 2012 holiday event planning tips, to trim costs and elevate ROI for your forthcoming events and parties:

1. Restaurants As Party Venues: You've got to admit that hosting holiday events at popular hotels in this peak season is actually an expensive proposal. Why not consider your friendly neighborhood restaurant which will probably offer you a fantastic deal, will have lower pricing points, recommend various themes with efficient staff. Most of these restaurants are already decorated for the holidays, thus will largely reduce your venue d矇cor costs further.

2. Host the Parties in January: Hosting parties in January are a new trend and they are equally enjoyable for your attendees. Dates are easier to book and venues are more affordable, as it's just after the holiday season. Companies and event planners like you should shift the focus from 'end-of-the' to 'beginning of a great year' theme. Clients are going to appreciate it as well; everyone will have something to look forward to in the new year.

3. Party During the Day: In 80% of the cases, lunch menus are less expensive than dinner spreads at popular eateries, especially during the holiday season. Attendees would also find it more comfortable to attend them, as compared to 'time crunched nights and weekends'.

4. Why not party at work? - You can also host corporate parties at the office venue, department wise, that would reduce the requirement of additional organizational resources for a large gathering. Employees would relish the break; in fact partying at your workplace holds a different charm altogether.

5. Customized Menus- Generally standard menus by popular caterers are more expensive than a customized buffet. It is easier to plan and control costs if you choose the menu personally, instead of relying on caterers. Alternatively, copy the menu of a recommended chef by requesting your caterer to suggest similar, affordable alternatives.

6. Online Holiday Event Registration- Avoid using manual registrations and payment management systems that are costly and error prone. Avail of the leading online event registration software to invite, register and accept payments, that's also convenient for your attendees.

Following these simple tips would help you to get much more out of your limited budget and would also reduce the extent of manual paperwork. Here's a lucky toast to your rocking holiday events and parties this session!