The credit crunch Christmas party

Top tips for a great staff party that won't break the bank

The office Christmas party - some of us can't wait for it, others will do anything to get out of it. But whatever the feeling, this December many small businesses will be wondering how they can make the budget stretch further.

Some may even be wondering whether to have a party at all. But this could be a false economy.

"It is during these belt-tightening times that we depend even more on the commitment and drive of our staff," warns Ben Williams, chartered corporate psychologist.

"The expense of a Christmas party is insignificant when compared to the benefits of raised morale, commitment and resultant quality of output."

Whether you're hiring a venue or having a knees-up in the office, follow our handy hints for throwing a great party on a budget.

1.) Make it a team effort

Even the most modest of parties take a bit of planning, so make sure you rally the troops. Ask your staff what they want from their party. Split the responsibilities such as organising the venue, catering and entertainment - and don't leave everything till the last minute.

2.) Drive a hard bargain

Suppliers will be particularly keen for your trade this Christmas - so shop around, and think outside the box if you're unhappy with the quotes you've received. If the food you had in mind is too expensive, consider theming the occasion with something a little different - a buffet usually works out cheaper than a sit-down meal. If you're buying in your own drink, get it on a sale-or-return basis. And if you've booked a venue, make them work hard for you - see if they can help you find discounts. Also, keep in mind that not everyone will drink, but everyone wants to eat. Those prone to having one too many might be even less reserved when it's not their own money they're spending. So if you're making a choice between food and drink, go for food.

3.) Make your own entertainment

If there's a part-time DJ in the office, ask them to show off their skills - in return for an extra drink or two, of course! Alternatively, how about asking everyone what music they'd like to hear, and using the results to put together a playlist on an iPod or MP3 player? And if you've got an office full of extroverts, how about karaoke or a talent show? If you suspect (or know full well) that this is some employees' idea of hell, simply make it an optional fixture.

4.) Give time off

No-one will be surprised if Christmas bonuses are a little less generous this year. But if your staff party is in the week, a little time off the following morning will be appreciated. If this is something your business can live with, let staff know well in advance, and be clear about what time work will begin.

5.) Keep it well watered

Making water freely available is incredibly cheap and a good idea on several fronts. If there's a big jug of water and some tumblers on each table, you increase the chance that guests will 'pace, not chase' - less alcohol consumption equals fewer hangovers. Served with ice and lemon, most tap water tastes just fine.

... and if you're partying in your own office

6.) Make it comfy

If your office chairs are a little uptight, consider hiring something more comfy. For a really cheap option, how about transforming the place with cushions and throws? And remember: even office tables look great with a nice tablecloth. (Insurance tip: make sure anything you bring in complies with your office safety policy).

7.) Don't be fazed by a small kitchen

Haven't got enough room for drinks in the office fridge? Use tough plastic boxes or buckets loaded with ice and salted water to cool cans and bottles quickly. And if you've got a separate meeting room or board room, use it to host your drinks reception area - it's also the perfect spot to lay out the food buffet, plates and cutlery.

8.) Set the mood

Office lighting is set up for work, not socialising. A change of light source is one of the simplest - and cheapest - ways to transform the ambience. Standard lamps and shaded table-top lamps throw a friendlier light than strip fluorescents. If you're bringing them in from home or elsewhere, make sure they've been suitably tested by an electrician.

9.) Switch off the photocopier

You might think photocopier 'party shots' had been done to death in the 80s, but electrical engineers will tell you that they still happen. So switch off the photocopier and take the fuse out of the plug.

10.) Don't forget the camera

In the words of one seasoned party planner, a Christmas party's not just for Christmas. It's an event that should have a life way beyond the day. Come up with novel ideas for the occasion, such as themed colours to wear, wigs or disguises. They don't have to be conventionally 'Christmassy' - the important thing is making it a memorable occasion. So don't forget the camera.

For more great ideas for getting the most out of your business, see our full range of news, guides and features at the MORE TH>N BUSINESS Knowledge Centre.