We all love a good party, especially a Christmas party. However, it’s not called the ‘silly season’ for no reason and many people get carried away (and into debt) treating everyone to some Christmas cheer. The good news is, you don’t have to overspend to throw a fun and memorable party. At Merrimu, we have hosted spectacular end of year celebrations for companies, schools and families from all over Melbourne. Here are a few budget-friendly ways to help you host a fabulous Christmas party without blowing the budget.
Set a Realistic Budget
The first step is to determine how much money you have to spend. Then, list the major components of the party and allocate money to different categories. Major costs will include:
- Venue Hire
- Catering
- Invitations
- Decorations
- Entertainment
- Miscellaneous – consider allocating 10% for unexpected costs.
Once you have identified your expenses, you can work out ways to cut costs where needed.
Choose a Venue with Atmosphere to Save on Decorations
Choosing a venue that already has something special about it is going to save you heaps on decorating costs. Try to find a venue with stunning views or a space that’s stylish on its own so you don’t have to use masses of expensive decorations to set the scene.
Use Free Music
Don’t pay for a band or DJ, instead, rely on free music services on the internet or create playlists on your smartphone or tablet to connect to the venue’s sound system. Online services such as Spotify and Pandora can provide all the music you need for free or just a few dollars. Ask your venue if they have television screens with access to music channels on cable television. Ultimately, you should be able to enjoy most of your Christmas favourites and keep the dancefloor going all evening without spending a cent.
Include Some ‘Reindeer Games’
For a fun and interactive party that will keep guests entertained all day or night, you need to have a few Christmas party games up your sleeve. Not only are games a great way to break the ice and encourage guests to mingle, most games require little money, and little effort. Kris Kringle-style gifting games are a great way for everyone to receive a gift, just be sure to let your guests know about it ahead of time.
There are plenty of other free or affordable games too. Some festive ideas include:
- Awards Ceremony – Create awards, make them funny and present them to each appropriate staff member.
- Ugly Shirt Competition – Ask guests to wear their ugliest Christmas attire and then judge the winners.
- Group Photos – set up an area where staff can get photos together. You can include props such as wigs, hats and cardboard signs. All of which are available at local discount or party stores.
- Create a hashtag – for sharing photos on social media. You could even award the photo of the night with a small gift.
- Hire outdoor games such as giant Jenga, Bocce, and Chess.
Consider Hosting a Party in the Off-Season Instead
December is renowned as being the busiest month of the year so why not consider hosting an event that’s specifically for employee appreciation when there’s less on the calendar? Host an early Christmas party in October to get people ready to finish the year on a high or be late with one in January when everyone is back from holidays to excite them for the year ahead. You will find that you will likely have your choice of venue, and you may even save money on catering expenses and party packages during an off-season event.
If you are looking for the ultimate Melbourne Christmas party venue, Merrimu is the place for you. Oozing charm and character, our reception venue has spaces to accommodate any number of guests from 40 to 400. Our immaculately landscaped gardens and beautiful indoor spaces will provide the perfect backdrop for your Christmas party photos. Enquire online about our packages today or call (03) 9568 1811 to speak with our experienced party planners.