JON MYLES gives a few pointers on how to make an office Christmas party an event to remember.

CHRISTMAS is party time — but getting that festive bash right is not always easy.

The tales of Christmas parties gone wrong are legion — and most people can remember at least one event they wish they had never been to.

Some parties can be events that you remember for the next 12 months — but others can be a crushing disappointment.

So how do you ensure that your party goes with the requisite swing — and leaves people talking about it for months to come.

Professional party planners say a few basic tips should help you make your seasonal event becomes a night to remember for all the right reasons.

If you’re planning a works Christmas event make sure you get the basics right.

First do not focus your energy solely on the buffet thinking food is what draws workers to the Christmas parties — the attendance is likely to drop off disappointingly because those parties can become all too predictable.

Experts say the most deadly type of holiday party tends to be a sit-down dinner at the boss’s house which often has a pressure-filled conservative atmosphere. Say the wrong thing and you could be out of favour at work for the next few months.

What people want is a relaxing atmosphere — and the knowledge that they can let their hair down.

So instead try having a different entertainment to encourage people to relax.

For example you could choose to have a designated receptionist announce the names of each new arrival, crown them with a Santa hat with their name and then read out something humorous about them.

It’s a trick that works well at large corporate parties when customers or large number of employees participate and not everyone knows each other. 

First names on Santa hats also work much better than name badges as they are less formal. And the hats then double as party favors which everyone gladly takes home.

But the energy of the party really starts with the invitations.

One company took a picture of all employees in Santa hats personalized with employees names and used the postcard as a corporate Christmas card as well as Christmas party invitations for their customers. The hats were then saved for the holiday party gala.

Also, don’t forget to wrap the party up with a take-home gift such as a stocking with a gift certificate, a turkey or an ornament with the company logo on it.

Finally, gather as many pictures from the party as possible and post them on the company bulletin board or a corporate website so employees can share the experience with their families, customers or anyone who missed the party.

Above all good planning is essential to make the party a success.

And remember, it is supposed to be a fun event where people can really let themselves go.