Office Holiday Party Do’s and Don’ts
How to Host and Enjoy a Company Holiday Party to Remember
The holiday season brings opportunities to celebrate, connect, and show appreciation for your team. Office holiday parties, whether held in stunning coastal locations like Monterey, Carmel, Santa Cruz, or elsewhere, are the perfect way to cap off the year and foster camaraderie. But these events come with their own set of challenges—from ensuring inclusivity to avoiding common party pitfalls.
As an experienced DJ and Photo Booth provider, I’ve seen it all—from unforgettable celebrations to lessons learned the hard way. Whether you’re attending or part of the planning committee, this comprehensive guide will help you nail every aspect of the celebration. Let’s dive into the ultimate do’s and don’ts for crafting an unforgettable office holiday party experience.
Do’s for a Memorable Office Holiday Party
Do Attend and Engage
Your presence matters. Attending the office party shows your appreciation for your company’s efforts to celebrate its employees. Even if social events aren’t your favorite, use the occasion to connect with colleagues, engage in activities, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Do Provide Clear Expectations
For the planning committee, communication is critical. Share invitations with all the details, including the dress code, start and end times, and whether guests are welcome. Also, if alcohol is served, provide safe transportation options like rideshares, shuttles, or designated drivers.
Do Plan Early and Involve Your Team
Start planning your event early to secure the best venues, caterers, and entertainment. Consider forming a party committee to ensure diverse input and engagement. When you involve your team in the planning process, you create a sense of ownership and excitement leading up to the event.
Do Prioritize Inclusivity and Thoughtful Activities
Holiday parties should make everyone feel welcome. Here are some ways to ensure inclusivity:
- Neutral Themes: Opt for a “winter wonderland” or “festive elegance” theme instead of something specific like Christmas or Hanukkah, which may exclude some attendees.
- Meal Service: If you are hosting a smaller event, I recommend having a platted meal service. It’s an added expense, but well worth it. For larger crowds a buffet style meal makes more sense.
- Dietary Options: Offer a variety of food and drink choices to accommodate dietary restrictions, allergies, and cultural preferences.
- Accessible Venues: Make sure your venue is easy to access and has accommodations for guests with mobility needs.
Do Incorporate a Photo Booth
A Photo Booth is an absolute game-changer for office parties:
- Fun for All Ages: Everyone loves stepping into the booth, donning quirky props, and striking a pose. It’s a guaranteed icebreaker.
- Memories to Take Home: Guests leave with personalized photo strips or digital images that serve as lasting mementos of the celebration.
- Brand Customization: For a professional touch, customize photo templates with your company logo or holiday branding.
Do Choose the Right Music and Entertainment
A professional DJ is essential for creating the right mood and keeping the event lively. Here’s why:
- Dynamic Atmosphere: A skilled DJ will curate music that evolves with the event, starting with softer holiday tunes for mingling and ramping up to high-energy tracks for dancing.
- Seamless Event Flow: DJs can handle announcements, coordinate speeches, and manage transitions, ensuring a polished experience.
- Tailored Playlists: Whether your colleagues love ‘80s classics, the latest hits, or a mix of genres, a DJ will curate the perfect playlist to match your company’s vibe.
- Encouraging Dancing: The dance floor is the heart of a great party. Whether it’s a company CEO showing off their moves or a group of colleagues busting out a choreographed routine, dancing creates memories that last.
Do Offer Activities for Everyone
While dancing might be a hit for some, not everyone is eager to hit the dance floor. Offer additional activities such as:
- A holiday trivia contest.
- A white elephant gift exchange.
- DIY dessert stations or festive cocktail workshops.
These options ensure that even introverted team members feel included.
The Don’ts for Office Holiday Parties
Don’t Skimp on Communication
Send clear invitations that cover every detail, including:
- Event location and time.
- Dress code (e.g., “festive casual” or “cocktail attire”).
- Whether guests or significant others are welcome.
This eliminates confusion and ensures everyone knows what to expect.
Don’t Forget Professional Boundaries
Even though the setting is festive, it’s still a work event. Avoid:
- Excessive alcohol consumption.
- Engaging in gossip or office politics.
- Sharing overly personal or inappropriate stories.
Maintain a balance of fun and professionalism to leave a positive impression.
Don’t Skip Entertainment Planning
Nothing kills a party faster than a lack of atmosphere. Investing in professional entertainment, such as a DJ or maybe even a comedian, ensures your event stays engaging. Trust me—those Spotify playlists won’t have the same effect!
Don’t Overlook Safety
If alcohol is being served, make sure there are safeguards in place:
- Use a ticket system to limit the number of drinks per guest. A two-drink limit is always a good idea.
- Offer plenty of water and non-alcoholic beverages. Mock-tails are very popular at parties these days.
- Arrange for rideshares, shuttles, or designated drivers to ensure everyone gets home safely.
Don’t Skip the Details
The little things make a big difference. For example:
- Provide options for dietary restrictions.
- Plan for an event flow that keeps guests entertained from start to finish.
- Avoid scheduling it too late in the evening—early evening events are often more successful.
Don’t Give Bonuses Out at the Event!
This one always makes me cringe… I know on the surface it seems like a great idea to hand out holiday bonuses at the party to lift spirits and show your appreciation to your employees. But it’s not! The first thing everyone does is compare bonuses. Talk about a mood killer if someone feels singled out by not getting the equivalent to a coworker. Or even worse, you hand out huge bonuses year after year at the event, then one year you don’t… I have seen this one happen many times, it never goes over well.
How a DJ Transforms Your Party
Setting the Tone
The right music sets the stage for the entire evening. I work closely with clients to curate playlists that reflect their company culture, mixing festive classics, modern hits, and even unique requests. Whether it’s holiday background music for the cocktail hour and dinner, or pumping beats for dancing, the music will always match the moment.
Creating Unforgettable Dance Floors
A great DJ knows how to build a dance floor that’s impossible to resist. Even those who claim they “don’t dance” often find themselves moving to the right music. From energizing the crowd with group-friendly songs like “Uptown Funk” to playing slow holiday ballads like “Winter Wonderland” for romantic moments. The dance floor is where connections are made and memories are created.
Enhancing Engagement
Through interactive elements like shoutouts, song dedications, or even dance contests, I make sure everyone feels included in the celebration.
Why a Photo Booth is a Must
In addition to music and dancing, a Photo Booth is the perfect complement to your holiday party:
- Icebreaker Extraordinaire: It encourages colleagues to mingle and share laughs over props and poses.
- High-Quality Keepsakes: Guests can print their photos instantly or receive them digitally, creating memories that last well beyond the party.
- Entertainment and Interaction: While some guests are dancing, others can be snapping pics and laughing over props. It ensures there’s always something to do.
- Custom Branding: Add a company logo or festive theme to the photo prints for an extra touch.
Tips for an Epic Office Party in Monterey, Carmel, and Santa Cruz
If you’re hosting your party in Monterey, Carmel, Santa Cruz, or nearby, here are some tips to make it extra special:
Leverage Local Charm
Coastal venues in Monterey, Carmel, and Santa Cruz offer unparalleled beauty and ambiance. Consider hosting your party at a beachfront resort, winery, or historic estate to make the event truly special.
Add Regional Flair
Incorporate local elements like fresh seafood, regional wines, or holiday décor inspired by the California coast. This ties your event to the area and creates a unique experience.
Hire Local Professionals
As a DJ with over 35 years of experience in the Monterey Bay area, I understand the nuances of local venues and the preferences of diverse audiences. From sound logistics to creating the perfect vibe, hiring local ensures a smooth experience.
Get Your Vendors in on the Game
If you are going to be have a gift exchange or giveaway, this is a great time to reach out to the vendors your company uses throughout the year and give them a chance to contribute with gifts or gift cards. This can go a long way with employee loyalty to your companies outside vendors. Think outside the box, ask your companies’ healthcare provider or fleet services for example for gifts. It doesn’t hurt to ask!
Holiday Party Wrap Up (Pun Intended)
An office holiday party is an opportunity to celebrate, connect, and create memories that strengthen your team. By following these do’s and don’ts—and prioritizing elements like professional entertainment, Photo Booths, and thoughtful planning—you’ll create a party that your colleagues will rave about for years.
Whether you’re planning a company holiday party in Monterey, Carmel, Santa Cruz, or beyond, having the right DJ and Photo Booth can take your event to the next level. With over 3,000 events under my belt, I’d be honored to help you create a party your team will rave about for years to come.
Contact me today to book DJ and Photo Booth services for your next holiday party in Monterey, Carmel, Santa Cruz, or beyond. Let’s make it legendary!
By DJ Justin Warwick of DJ Enterprises Mobile Disc Jockey, aka DJ Warwick
Justin Warwick. The dynamic force behind DJ Enterprises Mobile Disc Jockey, has been a trailblazer in professional DJ entertainment since 1989. Serving the Central Coast Monterey Bay area and beyond. Justin specializes in creating unforgettable experiences for weddings, corporate events, New Years, anniversaries, birthdays, and a variety of social events. Known for his ability to bring joy, fun, excitement, and energy to every event. Justin’s expertise ensures a memorable experience for you and your guests. One of Justin’s standout contributions to the wedding world is the “Table Dash game,” a high–energy reception activity he created in the early–2000s.
With thousands of successful events under his belt, Justin Warwick is renowned for his exceptional DJ and MC skills. He has a unique ability to read the crowd and tailor the music to fit the atmosphere perfectly. Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a grand celebration. Justin’s extensive music knowledge and state-of-the-art equipment guarantee a seamless and enjoyable event.
For those planning an event in the Carmel / Pebble Beach / Monterey Bay area. The Monterey Wedding DJ Blog offers a wealth of tips and ideas. It’s the most-read wedding DJ blog in California. Providing insights into crafting the perfect playlist, venues, and staying updated on the latest trends in wedding and event planning.
“I’d love the opportunity to be your companies Holiday Party DJ and provide Photo Booth services.” Reach out to me at [email protected] or visit (https://djwarwick.com) for more information. I look forward to hearing from you!
Explore the website for more details on services, pricing, and client testimonials to see why DJ Justin Warwick is the best choice for your next event. https://djwarwick.com
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