Whether you wanted to or not, you're on the office party planning committee and you have no idea what to do! Here are some tips to get you through every office birthday, holiday, and company party.

First things first: determine your budget! Think about how many parties you estimate during the month, quarter, or year and how many people you believe will attend. Factor in costs for food, decorations, entertainment, vendors, transportation, party favors, and include a contingency fund for unexpected expenses. Once you've done this, present your budget to a manager for review.

  

Set the stage for your event, share important information, and easily collect RSVPs with online invitations for birthdays, baby showers, holiday parties, retirements, and farewell parties. Browse a wide range of invites then customize your favorite design and deliver it instantly by email.

Instead of a typical party in the conference room with cake and gifts, try something different. Maybe a Potluck Picnic outside? A Make Your Own Sundae Bar? How about a Food Truck Festival or Chili Cook-Off Contest? Have fun with your committee brainstorming different types of events for different seasons of the year. 

A surefire way to plan an office party well is to have plenty of food! Even if it’s after lunch and people are stuffed, employees will still want to munch on something. Use your online invitations to poll guests and have them vote on foods and drinks they'd like to see on the menu and then easily collect information on food allergies and dietary restrictions. The type of food you serve largely depends on the season and type of event, but you can't go wrong with bite-sized munchies (think: charcuterie board, mini tacos, finger sandwiches, veggies, dip, other appetizers, and cupcakes or cookies for dessert).

More office party planning ideas include giving away free stuff. If you’re having trouble getting people to your events (some companies have this problem more than others), find something fun to give away. Ask your vendors or partners if they have something to donate, or use a tiny piece of your budget for gift cards to a local restaurant or an online retailer. 

Finally, remember that the best office party planning tips can come from the people who did it before you. Ask them what worked and what didn't and make sure not to repeat their mistakes!