It’s been a financial rollercoaster of a year for most Kiwi businesses. Christmas time invites us to pause and celebrate what’s gone right and to thank the people we have journeyed with.
Here are eight ways that you can keep your costs down without sacrificing festive fun:
Go alfresco. Why not enjoy a free venue that’s good for the body, mind, and party games…. the great outdoors! Ask everyone to bring a rug and head to the local park or beach for a picnic-style Christmas bash.
Go New Zealand-made. Support our economy and buy New Zealand-made gifts for staff and clients. Search on Facebook and you’ll have plenty to choose from.
Make it a day time celebration. Serving a holiday lunch, brunch, or mid-afternoon party can be more affordable because guests fill up with satisfying but inexpensive fare like sandwiches, pancakes, muffins, finger foods, crackers, and dip. Plus, it’s often easier to fit into people’s diaries during the busy festive season.
Share the love. Is your business in a large office or shared space? Throw a party with your neighbours. This saves money, resources, and creates a valuable networking opportunity.
Plan a potluck. Putting on a huge spread or taking your team out for dinner can be costly. Why not ask everyone to bring a plate? It doesn’t have to be Nadia Lim quality, they can grab nibbles, cookies, or fresh bread.
Choose a local venue. Keep your entertainment costs down for you and your staff by hosting your Christmas party close by. That way people don’t have to spend lots on taxis getting to and from the party.
Give the best present ever…. Get in everyone’s good books and give them the morning off after the Christmas party. A small gesture that’s worth its weight in gold.
Take the pressure off. If last year was the bash of the decade, don’t worry – people understand it’s been a tough year. Parties thrown on a shoestring budget can be the most memorable because they strip away all the window dressing and put the focus on the people in your team and fun.
If your company is in a position to afford parties and /or gifts for staff or clients, please check out our Entertainment Expenses Guide to see what you can claim and how much you can claim as a business expense.
