Extending the Season for End of the Year Events.

By Frank Harlan, Comedic Performance Artist & Entertainment Producer
Comedy Entertainment Programs, Seattle, WA

Every year, during the month of December, the high demand for event venues, catering services and entertainment make organizing the annual company party even more complicated. The reality of planning a party has many small businesses and corporate organizations reevaluating how they bring their employees together for their annual holiday celebration.

Many small to medium-size companies have realized that by planning their event, booking entertainment and event services during the lull that proceed and follow, the month of December, many vendors and support services are more accessible. Some may even be negotiable with fees that could generate a substantial savings when you consider the cost of hosting a dinner party for 50-250 employees and their spouses.

The trend I have witnessed over the past few years has been to host an “End of the Year” event sometime following Halloween and before the Thanksgiving holiday. Other organizations are hosting a “Winter Event” or getting off to a fresh start with a “Ringing in the New Year” get-together inside the last three weeks of January.

As you begin to plan your annual holiday event this year, consider making a few changes. Ask associates what they think about the party taking place before the mad holiday rush during the last few weeks of the year? Or, would they prefer an event that takes place after all of this year’s clutter has settled?

For me and many of my acquaintances in the Entertainment Industry, the trend for November and January events has been welcomed with open arms for two reasons; The first is that it extends the normal 3-4 weeks of Holiday Party performances to roughly 10 weeks of possible bookings and secondly, for many performers, January has become a month to stay busy entertaining guests in a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere.

The big plus for you? Chances are that most of the entertainers you would like to feature at your event will be available. And, If you book far enough in advance, 90-120 days, you may be able to negotiate a fee reduction of 10-20%.

For the person planning the event, expenses generated by the venue and other service providers (caterer, décor, valet, etc.) may be more flexible too. Ask them for a better price. Just ask, “Is this the best price you can give me?”  You may be surprised with their answer.

So, plan ahead this year. Celebrate the Season! You’ll save a little and get a lot!