John Cozzi

I know it’s only the end of September and you’ll probably be annoyed at me for saying it but Christmas is heading our way again, at speed.

Whenever someone says, “Christmas is coming”, I always think of Ferdinand the duck from the movie Babe, who frequently yelled, “Christmas is carnage!” from the roof of the barn in the lead up to the festive season. While most of us aren’t actually being sized-up for inclusion in the Christmas dinner table spread as poor Ferdinand was, many of us are the little black ducks that get handed the task of organising the office Christmas party. Right about now you’re probably thinking the description ‘carnage’ doesn’t quite cover it!

I am here to tell you, dear friends, that with a little forward planning carnage at Christmas can definitely be avoided. Here’s a few tips from the Chairman of the Breadboard to show you how:

If you’re planning to book a venue of some kind to accommodate a number of people – do it now. Trust me by mid-October, all the good ones will be gone.
If the whole idea of trying to find a venue (and the associated costs of hiring) leaves you cold, why not consider a catered event in a private home, or in a park or picnic area outdoors? This way you’ll have more control over food choices, décor, theming and, most importantly, the cost. You’d be amazed what can be achieved with a marquee and party equipment hire these days. This approach to Christmas functions is taking off so again, it’s best to get in early and start booking public spaces and hire equipment now to avoid disappointment.
And as it’s such a frantic time of year for pretty much everyone, perhaps you might consider alternatives to holding lunchtime, evening or weekend events. One great idea is a Christmas breakfast! Guests love the timing of such functions because it doesn’t cut into the work day or precious weekend time during the festive season.
Another great idea is to organise a festive platter of assorted sweeties and seasonal fruit to be delivered to your client’s workplace for them to enjoy with their colleagues. It’s a wonderful way to say ‘thank you’ for their business throughout the year and I guarantee, your clients will be thrilled!

I’d love to help you duck the ‘carnage’ and put the ‘cheer’ back into Christmas – particularly if you’ve been tasked with the organisation of the staff function or client gifts. Call or drop me an email and we can talk it over.

Yours in good food and great events,

Kellee

Call Kellee : 0412 577 323