Steampunk Style Guide: How to Blend Victorian Charm with Retro-Futuristic Flair. Are you currently in the midst of planning a large company party that will wow your employees? You're not alone!
Many companies (whether from the creative industries, the cultural sector, the public sector, or the private sector) are looking for creative ideas for unique events. Christmas parties, anniversaries, and summer festivals are particularly popular.
Whether you are based in Berlin, Munich, Cologne, Stuttgart or Hamburg, there are many opportunities organize an outdoor team building eventindoor event
Perhaps you still have many unanswered questions and are looking for inspiration and support in choosing themes, locations, and organizing your company party.
As the editorial team at Kunstplaza unfortunately cannot lend a hand ourselves, but we can at least offer you guidance and provide helpful suggestions , tips and recommendations to help you put together a suitable concept
The importance of company celebrations for employee retention and motivation
Corporate events play a major role in employee retention, team building, and motivation. Photo by Pablo Heimplatz @pabloheimplatz, via Unsplash
Company parties are a great way for businesses to boost employee loyalty and motivation.
A successful company party can strengthen team spirit and improve cohesion within the team
A good employer invests not only in recruitment but also in employee retention and well-being in their daily work life. In today's "war for talent," companies must create new and appealing opportunities to attract young professionals. A healthy work-life balance is particularly important, as many young talents value their time and enjoy their work. Companies should therefore focus on long-term employee motivation .
Organizing a relaxed company event, such as a summer party, Christmas celebration, or anniversary, can strengthen team cohesion. Various surveys and studies have long shown that one in four employees appreciates the break offered by such events.
At informal gatherings in a café or over cocktails, employees have the opportunity to unwind with their colleagues in a relaxed atmosphere after the workday. By giving them the chance to connect and get to know each other outside of the demanding work environment, you create a positive work atmosphere .
Especially for newcomers, getting to know their new colleagues personally and exchanging ideas is made easier. This makes the daily routine more relaxed and motivates employees to work more effectively.
Planning an unforgettable company party: challenges, objectives and budget planning
The crucial question is: how do you find the right concept for an unforgettable event?
Planning an unforgettable company party requires some thought to ensure a successful event. It usually begins with defining objectives and then contacting various event agencies or venues, unless you have your own in-house team for such occasions.
Should show acts, artists, or celebrities be booked?
Should it be a summer party atmosphere outdoors or something more indoors?
Should it include an interactive team-building component?
Gifts for the employees?
Honors and special recognitions?
Together with the team, ideas for a company party or anniversary celebration can then be gathered and reviewed. Especially in large cities like Hamburg, Hanover, Bremen, Cologne, Munich, Stuttgart, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt am Main, or Berlin, there are numerous opportunities to create innovative team eventsoutdoor team-building event or an elegant Christmas party in an exceptional setting.
Outdoor events are perfect for a summer party. Photo by Aranxa Esteve @aranxa_esteve, via Unsplash
Culinary highlights and a diverse entertainment program should also be included to offer guests an unforgettable experience. Surprises and special activities can further enhance the event.
After the successful company celebration, the management team can also thank their employees with small tokens of appreciation and gifts. Collecting feedback from employees – for example, using a small feedback box – can also be helpful, for instance, for planning the next event.
It is always important that the event is tailored to the needs of the company and its employees – only then will a simple company event become an unforgettable experience.
Planning checklist:
Define the goal and budget: Determine the desired objective of the celebration and the available budget. The goals can be varied, such as strengthening team spirit or celebrating company anniversaries. The available budget determines the scope of the event.
Choosing a location: It's important that it's easily accessible, spacious, and has adequate facilities. When selecting a venue, you should consider the number of guests, the planned activities, and the party theme.
Choose a theme: A company party can gain an additional element of entertainment through a carefully selected theme. It is advisable to consider the interests of the employees, the occasion, and the general company culture when choosing a theme.
Planning activities: All activities should be attractive and appropriate to the theme and the participants. Consider games, entertainment, shows, and food and drinks . Ensure a balanced combination of activities.
Hiring service providers: Depending on the type and size of your corporate event, you may need to hire service providers such as catering companies, entertainers, and event managers. Research potential providers, read reviews, and compare prices.
Sending invitations and managing RSVPs: Send invitations to participants in a timely manner and ensure they include all relevant information such as the date, time, location, and dress code. Analyze the RSVPs to get an idea of the actual number of attendees.
Planning logistics: To ensure the smooth and safe running of your corporate event, it is important to carefully clarify logistical issues such as transport and parking in advance. A shuttle service might be an option.
Follow-up: After the celebration has ended, you should talk to the guests to get their opinions and suggestions for future events.
10 key points for effective budget planning
1. Realistic planning
It is important not to use uncertain cost estimates, but to base the figures on concrete calculations or existing offers from the outset.
2. Detailed list
It is crucial to present the costs in detail. Ideally, you should start creating a project plan right from the beginning and list all costs transparently.
3. Sufficient buffer
Unforeseen costs can always arise. Therefore, buffers in cost planning are essential. They help you stay within budget and protect you from unpleasant surprises.
4. Regular checks
It is crucial to continuously monitor costs. You should regularly report to a supervisor on current costs and be able to point out any deviations.
5. Documentation
It is best to note all dates and deviations in the project plan.
6. Fixed and variable costs
The distinction between fixed and variable costs is another crucial aspect that shouldn't be overlooked. Savings are often possible, especially with variable costs (e.g., through the number of participants and the resulting flat fees).
7. Examine clauses with service providers
Precise and tailored contract drafting with service providers is crucial for achieving potential cost savings in variable expenses. Pay particular attention to important provisions such as kickback commissions (rebates).
8. Topic blocks
A well-developed project plan should be divided into clearly structured thematic blocks, each including a clear breakdown of costs. The following blocks can be helpful: indirect costs, direct costs, premises and equipment, fees and charges, catering, incidental expenses, and accommodation and meals.
9. List of income
Are there any sources of income associated with the event? Do you accept donations or sponsorship grants? It is important that these incomes are presented transparently in relation to the expenses.
10. Calculate the balance
Ultimately, it is important to list the budget, income and expenses in detail to ensure that there is no negative balance in the end.
How much should a large company party cost per employee?
The cost of a company party per employee depends on various factors.
There is no fixed rule about how much such a celebration should cost. The cost depends primarily on the size of the company and the budget available.
In principle, the costs for a company party are tax deductible if they are reasonable and within the usual range.
In practice, the upper limit for costs per employee usually ranges between 50 and 150 euros. It should be noted that these costs include not only food and drinks, but also the venue, music, decorations, and any gifts.
It is recommended to create a clear budget plan and to coordinate this with the works council and management .
What are the essential elements of a company party?
Above all, a good atmosphere should prevail, which can be achieved through music and entertainment. It is also important that enough food and drinks are available for all guests.
It is advisable to offer different options to cater to different tastes.
Furthermore, it is customary for several speeches to be given at a company celebration. For example, the boss or key employees might speak about the past year or future plans.
often include honoring, opportunities for networking be provided.
A company party offers the opportunity to get to know colleagues from other departments and to make contacts. Another important point is the right location .
A suitable atmosphere can help guests feel comfortable and experience a successful company party.
Location selection: Exceptional venues for unique events
When planning an unforgettable company party, choosing the right location is an important factor.
One option is to get inspiration from other companies and ask where they hold their company parties. Searching online for event venues can also be helpful.
There are numerous online portals and search services for event venues and event service providers , offering a good starting point for extensive research. You can also find ideas there for a company anniversary show, a summer festival, or a winter party.
Among the largest and most user-friendly search services are eventano , eventlocations.com, eventinc.de, fiyLo.de and LocationGuide24.com.
Ideas should be gathered together with the team.
The selection of classic and unusual event locations in Germany is vast. Photo by Aleksandr Popov @5tep5, via Unsplash
Germany has a variety of unique event locations that serve as venues for events.
There are different types of event venues , which vary in size, style, and purpose. In this section, we would like to briefly show you the basic types available to you.
Outdoor locations create a relaxed and nature-oriented atmosphere. Photo by Shaun Montero @notsazuki, via Unsplash
Hotels
Hotels are the perfect venues for a wide variety of events. They offer not only accommodation but also large conference rooms and convention halls. Many hotels also have stylish function rooms and ballrooms for celebrations and galas.
Restaurants and cafes
Many restaurants offer their food and tables not only to day visitors but also for larger groups, either in separate areas or as a whole. The variety of food and facilities in large cities leaves nothing to be desired. For corporate events, an exclusive restaurant with top chefs is ideal, while for Christmas parties, more intimate restaurants with a dance floor are more suitable.
Event ships
More and more cities situated on major rivers like the Rhine, Weser, Elbe, Danube, and Main offer event ships for team-building events, company parties, and client events. Smaller waterways like the Spree in Berlin or the Alster in Hamburg are also popular. There are both small party boats and large event ships available for up to 1,000 people.
Off-locations
If you're looking for a unique event location, consider off-the-beaten-path venues. Vacant industrial buildings like electrical substations or breweries offer an exclusive atmosphere not found in traditional event locations. The acoustics and visual appeal of these venues lend the event a special charm.
Conference centers and exhibition halls
The perfect infrastructure in the large exhibition halls of the cities, good transport connections and excellent facilities enable the organization of mass events at the highest level.
Meeting and conference rooms
In many cases, companies need external venues for meetings or conferences in other cities. Such venues are popular near transport hubs and major conference centers. Technical equipment is usually readily available.
Fundamentally, it is important that the location suits the company and its employees and creates a pleasant, harmonious atmosphere.
Thematic design of the company party: From elegant to unusual
The theme of a company party can significantly contribute to the event's success. It is important to consider the company's objectives and character
From elegant evening events to unusual outdoor team-building activities with adventure action, there are numerous company party ideas for a customized corporate celebration. Contacting event agencies, specialized service providers, or venues can help find suitable options and clarify any questions.
Elegant evening events are a classic choice for a company party theme. Photo by Al Elmes @alelmes, via Unsplash
Together with the team, team-building activities and surprises be planned to make the event unforgettable.
Christmas parties or summer festivals are also particularly popular as company celebrations with culinary highlights and an entertaining show program .
Ideas and suggestions for inspiration
Here you will find a list of tried and tested as well as creative ideas and themes for a themed company party:
Wine tastings in a relaxed atmosphere strengthen team spirit through lively exchange. Photo by Kelsey Chance @kchance8, via Unsplash
Winter (Indoor & Outdoor)
Frozen – a frozen kingdom
Winter Wonderland
Russian Evening
Rocking Christmas
Fire & Ice
Mobile Christmas market
Christmas party with BBQ / Show Cooking
cabin magic
Xmas meets Darts
Christmas with a neighborhood atmosphere
Christmas party with quiz show
Christmas in the Dark
Ice stock shooting / Curling
Ice skating
Retelling the Christmas story
Entertainment program with a wow factor: show acts, music and interactive elements
An unforgettable entertainment program is another essential component for company parties that should be remembered for a long time.
Show acts , music and interactive elements can make the event special and sustainably strengthen employee loyalty.
Visually stunning shows, creative entertainment, or interactive team building? What would you like? Photo by Aditya Chinchure @adityachinchure, via Unsplash
There are various options for the entertainment program, depending on whether it's a company party in winter or a summer outdoor celebration. You may already have gathered some ideas for company summer or winter parties. A quick internet search will also yield plenty of suggestions.
To avoid exceeding the scope of this article, we would like to focus here on 3 exceptional show-act ideas and entertainment programs for company celebrations or a company anniversary show and briefly introduce these company party program ideas.
Sand painting
a sand artist on a television show or online while researching company anniversary ideasmagic shows by renowned illusionists and visually stunning light shows,sand painting in a large-scale show format (e.g., as part of a company anniversary celebration) has
Sand painting is a subfield of visual performance art and an extraordinary method for animated stories with sand . It's certainly one of the more unusual corporate event program ideas, one that you haven't seen too often. It offers the perfect conditions for exciting surprises and that certain "wow" factor for the audience.
Through their individual approach, the sand artists are able not only to produce animated films, but also live shows and captivating performances for diverse audiences.
Sand painting offers your colleagues, employees, and guests a fantastic sensory experience. A show custom-designed for your company can, for example, tell its own success story and motivate the team to achieve even greater things.
Creative agencies like Sand-Art (website: sandmaler.com ) work together with their clients and artists to design an individual plot and create a unique work of art by using different materials and techniques.
Glass, wood and paper serve as canvases for drawing the designed sketches.
To incorporate other senses besides sight into the experience, background music, lighting effects and other innovative technologies can be integrated.
3 forms of sand painting for events
At a live sand show during a corporate event, award-winning sand artists perform the sand story in real time on a stage. The physical presence of the sand artists creates a feeling of immersion in the story's theme and forges an emotional connection among the guests.
A less elaborate option is the sand video . This is created by the artists in advance, after they have received photos from the client and gathered their wishes. It is an imaginatively designed, personalized sand video that can premiere at a company party or anniversary celebration. It can also be given to employees in digital form as a gift.
The third option is a live stream of a sand painting performance. Especially in today's increasingly digital world, this type of sand show has become a popular choice for company events. The live stream is broadcast in real time, with the sand artist performing directly from a specially equipped studio. The particular advantage of this option is that you can virtually invite as many guests from all continents as you like.
Such a show act can not only be an exciting spectacle, but also a reflection of the entrepreneurial spirit.
When brainstorming ideas for your company party and finding an original addition to your event, you should definitely consider sand painting.
Gameshow as a company event
A second extraordinary idea for a company event lets employees escape from the stressful office routine action , quizzes and skill gamesgame show .
In the game shows of the Berlin and Düsseldorf-based creative agencySHOWDOWN, participants take part in various games that last about 2 to 3 hours, getting to know their colleagues from a completely unknown side.
The supervisor transforms into the ambitious teammate, the previously unknown employee becomes the outstanding rival, and the quiet colleague in the next office surprises everyone with his extraordinary ability during the finals.
This versatile and highly interactive concept guarantees captivating suspense of the highest quality, creating unpredictable twists and overwhelming moments of shared experience.
Customers can choose from a large selection of 100 different games covering the themes of action, strategy, knowledge, and skill. Game shows can be implemented for up to 100 participants.
Filming as a team event
Let's explore another remarkable event experience that brings employees and colleagues within a company closer together.
Who hasn't dreamed of appearing in a film? With TheFilmEvent , this dream can now become a reality.
A team of specialists from various disciplines will create an extraordinary film production , actively involving 5 to 1,000 people. They will have the opportunity to tackle captivating tasks both in front of and behind the camera.
This task is all about fostering creativity and team spirit so that your employees can grow into a strong community.
A day on a film set consists of these components:
Find a location and date
Roles and genres
Costumes and props
Filming and editing
Premiere and Awards
Stream and download
Culinary Highlights / Catering Ideas
When planning an unforgettable company party, the right catering essential. After all, the employees should be able to spend a wonderful time together and enjoy the day to the fullest.
Culinary highlights and catering ideas should be planned well in advance, as many caterers are booked months in advance. Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 @priscilladupreez, via Unsplash
Planning and organization
Organizing catering requires time and attention. Therefore, it is advisable to start planning early , especially for larger events.
It's advisable to look for an experienced catering company and book their services well in advance to ensure you get your first choice. Popular caterers are often booked up far ahead of time.
Consider the different needs and preferences of the guests
It's important that there's something for everyone. Whether it's a summer barbecue outdoors, a festive buffet , or finger food at an outdoor event – the possibilities are endless.
Light finger food is a great option for summer outdoor parties. Photo by Lee Myungseong @yvonnemorgun, via Unsplash
A successful event always requires a catering service that understands and caters to the individual needs and preferences of your guests . It's best to find out in advance about any allergies, dietary restrictions, or cultural preferences your guests may have.
To ensure that all guests are satisfied and can fully enjoy their meal, it is advisable to offer a wide selection of dishes . This way, every taste can be catered for.
It is crucial to ensure that vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available. This way, all guests feel well catered for and can fully enjoy their meal.
When looking for suitable ideas, it is worth considering regional specialties
In many cities, food trucks option, while regional specialties can be served at company parties in traditional restaurants.
Food truck with Mexican food, in a thematically appropriate truck design. Photo by Harry Gillen @gillenha, via Unsplash
Mobile food stands – as food trucks can also be called – are not only convincing in terms of taste, but also generally offer an appealing appearance (from nostalgic to modern) and create an urban atmosphere. An additional advantage is that all dishes are freshly prepared right in front of the customers.
Other trendy catering concepts at a glance:
Fine Dining – Michelin-starred cuisine for upscale occasions
Flying finger food – the buffet comes to your table
Dessert catering or ice cream trucks
Pop-up trailer with mobile kitchen on wheels
Family-style BBQ
Live Cooking / Show Cooking
“Locavore”offers : “Locavore” refers to people who try to consume food from their immediate surroundings or region.
Donut wall
Smoothie Bowl Bar
Tapas
You can also dine in style at the beach or lake. A good caterer not only delivers delicious food but also creates a pleasant atmosphere. Photo by Marc Babin @marcbabin, via Unsplash
Adapt the catering theme to the event concept
For events with a specific theme or a special atmosphere, the catering should be adapted accordingly.
Ideally, the catering should fit the overall concept of the event.
For outdoor events in good weather, light and summery menus are ideal. If it's an elegant evening event, a gourmet dinner with refined dishes and fine wines could be the perfect choice.
The combination of catering and themed concept creates a perfectly harmonious experience.
Team building activities & workshops
A company party offers not only the opportunity to strengthen team spirit and employee loyalty, but also to have fun together.
To promote team building at the event, active team building activities or workshops can be incorporated into the event.
One idea would be an outdoor team event such as a scavenger hunt or a team competition with various challenges.
But there are also many possibilities indoors (e.g. for a company winter party): A joint cooking class or an escape room can help employees get to know each other better and work together as a team.
Or how about a Las Vegas-style casino party? Immerse yourselves and your colleagues in the glamorous world of gambling and enjoy an evening full of excitement, thrills, and of course, fun. Transform your venue into a real casino and let professional croupiers guide you through the evening.
If the glamour of Hollywood appeals to you more, then a Hollywood gala night be just the thing for your team. Here, your employees can walk the red carpet like stars and feel like VIPs.
Of course, the paparazzi will be there to capture this special moment. In a stylish atmosphere, you can toast to successful projects together while familiar film music plays in the background. For all film enthusiasts, an Oscar ceremony is also available.
Individual trophies allow you to ensure that each employee receives their own personal award.
A lively quiz show great way to impress your employees . Ask engaging questions on various topics and let your staff put their knowledge to the test. Of course, prizes are a must to keep everyone motivated.
Quiz shows are an excellent way to playfully compete against each other in teams or even solo in a battle of knowledge. Image source: Freepik
Another original event among the company anniversary ideas could be a sand painting workshop led by experienced artists.
Here, your employees have the opportunity to express their creativity and create works of art together. Impressive pictures are created and stories are told using colored sand.
This special form of art offers space for imagination and creativity as well as a relaxed atmosphere for exchanging ideas.
Regardless of which idea you ultimately choose, all these suggestions promise unforgettable moments with your employees that will be remembered for a long time.
Use company celebrations as an opportunity to strengthen team building, provide new impetus and, above all, have fun together!
Surprises and gifts to round off the event
A company party shouldn't just be an ordinary event, but something special for the employees. A successful celebration can contribute to employees feeling valued and motivated.
To achieve this goal, surprises and special activities during the celebration can make a crucial contribution.
Surprise moments and spontaneous show acts
For example, a spontaneous entertainment segment, an unannouncedcelebrity guest , or an unusual show act lighten the mood and create spontaneous enthusiasm.
Imagine this: The guests are enjoying the festive buffet when suddenly music blares from the speakers. A group of professional dancers enters the room and begins to perform a captivating choreography.
With acrobatic feats and impressive synchronicity, they amaze everyone. This spontaneous entertainment not only delights the employees but also creates a relaxed atmosphere full of joy and fun.
Another thought: During the evening, an unannounced celebrity guest suddenly appears on stage – someone no one expected to see there. Whether it's a well-known actor or perhaps even the CEO himself – this surprise creates a moment of astonishment.
The opportunity for a personal exchange with a prominent figure creates a very special experience for each individual employee.
Gift ideas for employees and guests
At a company party, you might want creative gift ideas , which can be given to both employees and guests as a thank you for their contribution to the company's success.
Because a gift can evoke emotions and bring joy.
Here is a small list of gift suggestions that achieve exactly that:
Personalized photo books
Create personalized photo books with memories and moments that are especially dear to the recipient. Personalized gifts always bring the greatest joy.
Wellness vouchers
Treat your employees and guests to soothing wellness vouchers. Whether it's a relaxing massage or a rejuvenating spa day – these gifts promise pure relaxation and well-being.
Creative workshops
Allow your employees and guests to unleash their creative potential. From painting workshops and cooking classes to music lessons – such experiential gifts not only evoke emotions but also foster team spirit.
Personalized thank you cards
Show your appreciation with handwritten thank-you cards for each employee or guest. These small gestures not only convey your recognition but also create a personal connection.
Unique jewelry pieces
Okay, this is where things get a little more expensive. Give timeless jewelry pieces that can be personalized with an engraving or a special symbol. Such unique gifts are not only eye-catching but also a lasting memento.
Follow-up
After the successful conclusion of the company celebration, it is important to thank the participants for coming and to obtain their feedback.
One option is to send a thank-you email to all guests and also take the opportunity to ask for their opinion on the event.
It's important to take the feedback seriously and use it as a basis for improvements for future events. This might even spark ideas for the next company party.
Together with the team, ideas can then be gathered and plans made to make the next event even better.
Owner and Managing Director of Kunstplaza. Journalist, editor, and passionate blogger in the field of art, design, and creativity since 2011. Successful completion of a degree in web design as part of a university study (2008). Further development of creativity techniques through courses in free drawing, expressive painting, and theatre/acting. Profound knowledge of the art market through years of journalistic research and numerous collaborations with actors/institutions from art and culture.
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J-Line White Christmas Tree with Golden Ornaments, Polyresin (Height: 63 cm)
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