5 Tips for Planning a Flawless Corporate Event this Holiday Season with Art Kitchen
It’s the season to be jolly—and host an unforgettable office event! Whether you’re gearing up for a Christmas party, end-of-year celebration, or a festive client appreciation bash, we’ve got you covered. Planning a corporate event can feel a bit like untangling last year’s Christmas lights—but with a few simple tips (and the Art Kitchen team!), you’ll be set to throw a party that’s both impressive and hassle-free.
Here’s how to sleigh your holiday event planning, Art Kitchen style.
1. Define Your Festive Event Goals
Before you jump into the glitter and garlands, think about why you’re hosting the event. Are you celebrating an amazing year with your team? Saying thanks to clients? Or just looking to spread some holiday cheer? Figuring out the vibe helps guide everything else, from venue to menu.
Our Tip: Once you have the goal, share it with your caterer and vendors. Whether it’s toasting to a great year or creating a cosy holiday feel, knowing the vision helps us design a menu and experience that fits perfectly with your celebration.
2. Book a Venue
Venues are filling up fast this season, so don’t wait too long to secure a spot! And when you do, look for a venue that fits the holiday vibe you’re aiming for. Maybe a cosy, intimate space with beach front décor for a true Aussie festive feel, or a larger, airy venue with twinkling lights for a more classic setting.
Our Tip: You can ask your caterer (yep, that’s us!) about the venue and layout. Most caterers will be familiar with the local venues and their layout. This means we can suggest fun, interactive food stations, areas for mingling, and even space for a holiday-themed dessert station based on our experience with the space. If you’re in Sydney and still stumped for a venue, check out our favourite venues here.
3. Trust the food to the holiday pros (Hint: that’s us!)
No holiday party is complete without amazing food! And if you ask us, a caterer can make or break the event. At Art Kitchen, we go beyond just serving up great food—we’re all about creating an experience that’s fun, festive, and guaranteed to make your guests feel spoiled. From hearty holiday classics to lighter bites, we’ll help you build a menu that keeps everyone happy (and full).
Our Tip: This time of year, variety is key! Think grazing platters, seasonal canapés, and even a festive summery dessert bar to cool off at the end of the night. And don’t worry if you have a few last-minute menu changes or surprise dietary requests—our team is used to handling those holiday curveballs.
4. Keep communication flowing
Holiday parties have a lot of moving parts, and keeping everyone in the loop is a must. From caterers and bartenders to the venue team, making sure everyone’s on the same page means fewer surprises and a smoother event.
Our Tip: Consider assigning a “go-to” person to handle last-minute questions and coordinate on the big day. That way, you get to relax and mingle, while your designated helper can step in if any surprises come up. (Just don’t make yourself the point person—trust us, you’ll thank us later!)
5. Add Some Personality to the Event
Want to make your holiday event extra special? Sprinkle in some festive magic! This could be anything from a signature cocktail (hello, spiced pineapple spritzer!) to personalised touches like a mini pavlova station. These little details make the event memorable and get everyone in the holiday spirit.
Our Tip: Let us know if you want to add a little “wow” factor. We’ve done everything from mini holiday grazing boxes to festive charcuterie boards that feel as special as the season itself. Plus, adding touches like these gives guests something fun to post about—always a bonus!
Wrapping it Up (Literally)
Planning a holiday event doesn’t have to feel like a marathon. With the right team and a few easy going tips, you can create an event that’s full of holiday cheer and completely stress-free. And if you want some help putting the whole thing together, Art Kitchen is here to take the work off your hands—so you can focus on having a great time with your guests.
Ready to make this year’s event a knockout? Get in touch with Art Kitchen, and let’s make it the most wonderful event of the year!
