After a full year of hard work and persistence, an annual event is the perfect way to treat your employees to something meaningful. That way, everyone can enter the new year with a fresh outlook and reinvigorated energy.

Key takeaways

1. M – Mindful planning
2. E – Event Master of Ceremonies
3. E – Express gratitude and appreciation
4. T – Theme and decor
5. I – Inclusivity and comfort
6. N – Networking opportunities
7. G – Generous gifts

Keep reading, and I’ll share seven ways that you can make your end-of-year meeting exceptional, entertaining, and enlightening with the acronym MEETING.

See Related: The Difference Between Hosting B2B and B2C Events

#1. M – Mindful Planning

As we near the end of 2023, it’s time to start thinking about how you want your annual staff meeting to unfold.

Hosting a fun and meaningful event isn’t as easy as it might seem, and it’s important to use your event to create the foundation for success in 2024.

You can’t expect to just waltz into the new year and have greatness waiting for you. You need to take time to make it happen.

Your employees likely have some high expectations for how they want the staff meeting to be. After all, they’ve just spent the last 365 days giving their all, and they want to be rewarded for their hard work!

So, let’s give them the meaningful reward that they truly deserve.

The key to fantastic end-of-year meetings is planning and preparation

Though there’s no “secret recipe” to any event, the best way to ensure you host a successful event is by taking plenty of time and effort beforehand to plan it all out.

Organizing and planning will go a long way in making sure you have all your bases covered. That way, you and your team can celebrate the end of the year the way you all deserve.

Don’t underestimate this valuable element!

Take into account every detail when planning your team meeting

Your journey of meticulous planning should involve consideration of event logistics (pick a date and time that works for as many people as possible) and the overall flow of the meeting.

Your brainstorming session should involve a discussion about venue options, possible caterers, and a meeting agenda, among other applicable things.

Don’t forget to take this time to craft a meeting agenda

Careful creation of a meeting agenda can be especially useful. Particularly if you’re anticipating having a lot of “business talk” at your staff meeting, an agenda will help ensure everything progresses smoothly.

That way, you and your team can efficiently cover the details and get back to the festivities as quickly as possible!

#2. E – Event Master Of Ceremonies

I know I just said that there’s no “secret recipe” to any event, but that’s not entirely true.

In fact, there is one surefire way to ensure your event runs smoothly and everyone genuinely enjoys themselves. And that is by booking an experienced and entertaining corporate emcee!

A Master of Ceremonies can entertain the crowd while keeping things on track

Finding a hilarious and entertaining keynote speaker is important for more reasons than one.

For starters, a great emcee knows how to wield the power of humor and intrigue to wow a crowd. With the right emcee, an audience will stay vividly entertained and enthralled from start to finish, and walk away with memories that last a lifetime.

Your audience deserves an entertainer who knows how to keep things lively

Secondly, a great emcee can ensure your team meeting stays on track.

From making timely announcements to following the set schedule, your Master of Ceremonies will work with you both on stage and behind the scenes to help your event be a genuine and long-lasting success.

#3. E – Express Gratitude And Appreciation

Your team has been working hard all year. Day in and day out, they show up to the office (or to their screens, if you have a remote team) and give 100% to help the company succeed.

And they deserve some recognition and appreciation for these efforts!

In fact, employee recognition is one of the most valuable things in the workplace. Team members who feel they are recognized are 2.7 times more likely to be highly engaged at work.

Don’t underestimate the vast value that gratitude can bring your team members

Appreciation is the driving force behind key metrics like employee engagement, overall productivity, team morale, and positive company culture.

When workers feel like their efforts matter and are seen, it motivates them to keep going. And that can be priceless.

Make employee appreciation a core element of your team meetings

Gratitude and appreciation should already be infused into each team meeting you host. Celebrating your team’s accomplishments and all they’ve done adds a much-needed positive note to every gathering, including your year-end meeting.

Taking the time to acknowledge the contributions of each team member is a great way to start the next year. As a team leader, you should make expressing gratitude a cornerstone.

But you should also encourage people in the office to show some appreciation to their fellow team members as well!

#4. T – Theme And Decor

Don’t overlook the details. If you want to host a year-end meeting that is exciting and fun, don’t forget to spice up the office.

Start by choosing a theme that resonates with the festive spirit of the season. In addition to being the end of Q4, it’s also the peak of the holidays!

Creating a visually appealing environment is a great way to make your year-end meeting just a bit more comforting and memorable.

Bonus: 5 Stage Presence Tips From A Master of Ceremonies

#5. I – Inclusivity And Comfort

You should incorporate elements into your year-end meeting that encourage inclusivity and comfort. Everyone should feel at peace and welcomed at your end-of-year meeting!

Interactive games and fun activities are great ways to promote team-building and inclusivity. Whether your employees want to have an immersive scavenger hunt or simply work through some team challenges, interaction can get people bonding and connecting in a fun way.

Break up your team into smaller groups for discussions

A big part of an end-of-year meeting is reflection. It’s important to take time to look back at what went well, and where people could improve the following year.

An open discussion is a great starting point. Take time to discuss lessons learned, next steps, and all the good things from the past year.

Explore other discussion topics as well.

Maybe you want to congratulate your team on achieving a notable business goal. Maybe your sales team crushed it this year, and you want to reflect on their amazing efforts.

Regardless of the direction you take, always leave room for open communication

The key to having a great end-of-year meeting and a meaningful discussion comes down to the level of open communication there is.

Team leaders should understand the vast importance of free-flowing communication both in day-to-day activities and during an all-team meeting.

Let your whole team share their opinions and thoughts on the upcoming year. That way, you can end the past year on a high note and pave the way for newfound success!

#6. N – Networking Opportunities

Even if your end-of-year meeting is riddled with fun activities and interaction, it’s still a professional function. You should give your team a chance to network with each other and other members of the organization in an organic manner.

Be sure to include team members from all departments and levels within the company. This will give your workers a great chance to connect with others in the organization.

If you have a chance, it’s likely worthwhile to also invite sponsors, industry leaders, and other notable figures to provide more innate value to your meeting.

Foster an environment where employees can connect on a personal level. This is key to strengthening workplace relationships.

Networking opportunities contribute to a more cohesive and collaborative team.

#7. G – Generous Gifts

As I said, not only should your end-of-year meeting be about the year ahead, but it should also be a chance to celebrate the festive season. Your meeting will overlap with plenty of notable holidays, and indulging in the festivities is a great way to treat your team to a better experience.

Just be sure to spice things up with some presents!

After all, what better way is there to celebrate the holidays than with some generous gifts? With the season of giving upon us, you should find it within yourself to spread some generosity throughout the office.

Give personalized and unique gifts to your team to start the new year right

Try to select gifts that reflect thoughtful consideration of your team members. Impersonal things won’t make a difference. For example, don’t give a gift card to a steakhouse to a vegan employee (duh.)

Personalized items, company-branded merchandise, or gift cards to popular stores are excellent choices. Regardless of what you choose to get your team, be sure it’s unique!

The act of giving gifts to your team not only expresses gratitude but also leaves a lasting positive impression. Gift-giving not only helps end things on a positive note, but it also sets up the next year for greatness.

Great gifts to give at your upcoming year-end team meeting

Wondering where to start? Sometimes, it can be hard to think of presents to give your employees that they’ll actually like and use.

Here are some timeless gifts that you really can’t go wrong with!

• Branded company swag
• Engraved ballpoint pen
• Electric mug warmer
• Ergonomic foot rest
• Desk mat
• Gourmet coffee sampler
• Cute desk calendar
• Mouse pad
• Candles
• Wireless charger
• Mini humidifier
• Multifunctional desktop organizer
• Portable essential oil diffuser
• Glass water bottle
• Laptop sleeve bag

There’s really no limit. Remember, your focus should always stay on hosting a meaningful and memorable year-end meeting.

But sending everyone home with some killer gifts is a great way to spice things up!

Final thoughts

As 2023 comes to a close, your end-of-the-year meeting will play a vital role in how the next year starts off. With an entertaining emcee running the show and a focus on employee appreciation, you’re well on your way to hosting a great year-end function!

Keep Reading: The Importance Of Force Majeure Clauses When Corporate Hosting

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Adam Christing has been called “The Tom Brady of emcees.” He has hosted over 1,000 company meetings, special events, gala celebrations, and more. He is the author of several books and the founder of CleanComedians.com. For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

The post 7 Ways To Make Your End-Of-Year Staff Meeting Memorable And Meaningful appeared first on Adam Christing.

At a glance

1. B2B and B2C events have different types of attendees
2. B2B events are business-based rather than oriented around entertainment
3. Both events need an emcee on stage to ensure everything runs smoothly
4. Each event type has different goals

Understanding the main differences and similarities between B2B and B2C events is the first step in hosting a function that can give your business the boost it needs.

Keep reading, and I’ll let you know the key differences between B2B and B2C events.

See Related: 7 Games To Enhance Your Next Annual Company Dinner

#1. B2B and B2C events have different types of attendees

The primary difference between B2B and B2C events is the type of people you’ll have in attendance.

B2B events usually are multi-day conferences, VIP breakfasts, product launches, cocktail parties, trade shows, or executive retreats where the target audience is other businesses and industry members.

B2C events, on the other hand, are all about building relationships with potential customers, so the audience will likely be made of regular consumers and new customers.

#2. Business-to-business events are business-based rather than oriented around entertainment

The dynamics of B2C and B2B events are another obvious difference.

B2C events create a memorable experience that encourages customers to interact with a brand.

It’s all about creating engaging and enlightening event experiences for everyone!

Bonus: 5 Ways To Make Your Workplace Festivities Inclusive During The Holidays

B2B events usually have a higher emphasis on networking sessions

B2B events are more professionally oriented.

Because the target audience is mostly other companies or brands, there’s an added emphasis on networking so that those in the crowd can have an added benefit.

#3. Both events need an emcee on stage to ensure everything runs smoothly

Let’s talk about something that both event types should have in common.

Both of these event types won’t be successful without a memorable Master of Ceremonies running the show.

A fun, engaging, and charismatic speaker on stage will help guide the festivities while keeping the audience entertained. An emcee is key to creating great brand experiences for your audience!

And, especially when it comes to B2C events, the brand experience is perhaps the most essential part. This is the foundation for the marketing strategy, event dynamics, and everything in between.

#4. Each event type has different goals

Especially during the event planning process, setting goals and objectives for your event is crucial if you want it to end in success.

B2C events often seek to entice new customers, drive sales and services, and keep people interested in their brand.

B2B functions likely are geared more toward building relationships with other businesses, industry leaders, and powerful decision-makers.

Though there are many ways for a company to use B2C events, understanding how to create and execute your goals is the key to it all!

Final thoughts

Knowing the difference between a B2C and B2B event is important if you want your function to be a success. And this list here will help you in that simplistic journey!

Keep Reading: 5 Holiday Fundraising Ideas From A Corporate Emcee

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Adam Christing has been called “The Tom Brady of emcees.” He has hosted more than 1,000 company meetings, special events, gala celebrations, and more. He is the author of several books and founder of CleanComedians.com. For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

The post The Difference Between Hosting B2B and B2C Events appeared first on Adam Christing.

Key takeaways

1. Blobs and lines
2. What’s in the box?
3. Never have I ever
4. Do the opposite
5. The matching game

If you want your team to feel excited about your company’s yearly event, it’s important to make sure the festivities are complete with fun and engaging games. Some genuine, heartwarming activities can make or break the evening!

Keep reading, and I’ll share five of the best games for your next company dinner.

See Related: What Is B2B Event Planning? Your Complete Guide

#1. Blobs and lines

The thing about company dinner parties is that you don’t want them to feel too uptight. If you’re opting to circumvent the traditional corporate event route and simply go with a simplistic dinner, don’t forget to still make it entertaining enough.

Though a delicious plate of thoughtfully catered food is already enough to make most people melt, you’ll likely need to take it a step further. You can’t rely completely on your evening’s dishes to entertain the crowd.

That’s where fun dinner party games come in!

Never underestimate the power of fun dinner party games!

As a corporate emcee, I’ve played my part in many, many company events over the years. As a Master of Ceremonies, I’m responsible for both guiding the festivities and putting on games and activities.

If you want your annual dinner party to be a truly memorable and heartwarming experience for your guests, don’t forget to book an event speaker. That’s the only way you can be sure that your annual event ends in success!

Annual dinner games can help your employees build positive relationships in a meaningful way

Not everyone in your office will be super chummy with each other. But it’s important to prioritize and promote camaraderie in the workplace for more reasons than one. That’s why dinner games that help people connect can be so crucial.

For starters, camaraderie in the workplace is the foundation of collaboration and teamwork and even boosts employee engagement, productivity, and workplace morale. Don’t underestimate the power of positive workplace relationships.

Here’s a dinner party game that will help people get to know

Blobs and lines is a fun yet simplistic “get to know you” game that is perfect if you’re looking to help people break out of their box. If your employees don’t connect well in the office, this is a great way to help them learn more about each other in a fun, interactive environment.

The leader for this game (which, ideally, would be your event’s emcee) will have a list of ways to gather people together into either blobs or lines. Some simple examples include lining people in order of birthdays or making groups of dog lovers and cat lovers.

Feel free to make it as specific or personalized as possible to your unique crowd!

Bonus: 5 Holiday Fundraising Ideas From A Corporate Emcee

#2. What’s in the box?

Are you looking for a classic game that will bring out the daring side of your employees? “What’s in the box?” is a great activity for encouraging some fun and laughter in a creative and weird way.

It’s time to let your employees test their courage!

Start by creating a five-sided box that will allow the crowd to see the contents inside, while hiding it from the person up to bat. Put mystery items in the box, and then have guests take turns putting their hands into the box to touch the items, and try to guess what the items are.

Wondering what items to put inside?

Here are a few ideas to get you going.

• Pokey plants
• Cotton candy
• Jelly
• Shrimp
• Melted marshmallow
• Playdoh
• Cooked spaghetti
• Coins
• Pine cones
• Toy cars

Feel free to get creative!

#3. Never have I ever

At your next dinner party, try out this classic, fun game in order to get people interacting. Though “Never Have I Ever” can be seen as a more daring drinking game, it’s easy to incorporate it into your next annual event.

Start by having each guest write down a secret with their name on it on a piece of paper. Have them all add it to a bowl, and have the event emcee fish one out of the bowl at a time.

After the paper is read aloud, the event attendees will take turns guessing whose secret it was. If you have a large crowd, try to split the guests into small groups to make the activity more manageable.

#4. Do the opposite

It’s time to let your guests defy commands and be a little rebellious!

This party game for your annual company dinner is an engaging game that not only acts as a conversation starter but also lets people start to exercise the more hidden parts of their brains.

In this game, people simply do the opposite of what they’re told. So, if the emcee tells everyone to “sit,” it’s time for everyone to rise to their feet!

Though it sounds like a simple game at first, it can get pretty complex and interactive. As the evening goes on, the commands can get more and more intense, and that’s when the fun really begins.

#5. The matching game

This game is perfect for mingling. All you need to do is write the names of famous people or celebrities on a name tag or sticky note and give one to each guest. Mix them up, and stick them to their backs, so each person doesn’t know the name they were assigned.

Then, have people mix and mingle. Guests will then walk around and ask yes or no questions to try and deduce the name they were assigned.

The first player to guess their assigned name wins!

The five things you need to think about when hosting your annual dinner

Hosting the perfect annual company dinner might not be as easy as you think. Luckily, I’ve learned plenty about what it takes to ensure your event goes smoothly.

Let me break it down for you with the acronym GAMES: G – Guestlist, A – Atmosphere, M – Menu planning, E – Entertainment, and S – Schedule.

G – Guestlist

For your dinner event, it’s a good idea to invite more than just your regular workers. There are more people than that who contribute to it running smoothly!

From key stakeholders to important clients, it’s important to include people who play a role in the success of the company. It’s also a good idea to encourage a mix of departments and levels within the company to foster a sense of community.

Want to take it a step further? Personalize the event invites to make attendees feel valued and appreciated.

A – Atmosphere

The atmosphere you create is by far one of the most essential parts of hosting a great annual event. The tricky thing is, there’s a lot that goes into it!

Start by picking a venue that aligns with the tone of the event. Then, go on to cultivate an atmosphere that complements your company culture and the purpose of the event

M – Menu planning

If you’re hosting a dinner party for your employees, it should go without saying that you need to put some emphasis on the food.

If you’re catering the meals, be sure to work with the team to create a menu that suits a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Don’t forget to offer a delightful and delicious mix of appetizers, main courses, and desserts.

E – Entertainment

Your guests deserve to be entertained from start to finish. That’s the key to hosting a successful event! And the only way to do that is with a great event emcee.

A great Master of Ceremonies will help put on the festivities while guiding the games. And that’s how you create immaculate entertainment that resonates with your attendees!

S – Schedule

You can’t just have people show up for your company’s annual dinner and expect things to just happen on their own. That’s why crafting a well-balanced schedule is so important!

With an evening packed with fun and games, don’t forget to incorporate breaks between activities to allow for socializing and ensure that guests have time to enjoy the meal.

Final thoughts

Hosting an exciting and engaging annual company event is only possible with the right activities and games on the schedule. With these five ideas in your pocket, it’ll be easy to start off on the perfect foot!

Keep Reading: 5 Ways To Make Your Workplace Festivities Inclusive During The Holidays

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Adam Christing has been called “The Tom Brady of emcees.” He has hosted more than 1,000 company meetings, special events, gala celebrations, and more. He is the author of several books and founder of CleanComedians.com. For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

The post 5 Games To Enhance Your Next Annual Company Dinner appeared first on Adam Christing.

At a glance

1. P – Plan diverse activities that are fun for everyone
2. A – Acknowledge different holiday traditions and cultures
3. R – Respect the preferences of your employees
4. T – Take some time to learn about your employees
5. Y – Yield an open and welcoming environment

It’s important to make sure your workplace celebrations are fun, enlightening, and enjoyable for any and everyone. Cultivating a culture of positivity and inclusivity is the best way to do just that!

Keep reading, and I’ll share with you five ways that you can ensure your workplace holiday party is inclusive for everyone with the acronym PARTY!

See Related: 6 Company Holiday Party Ideas From A Master of Ceremonies

#1. P – Plan diverse activities that are fun for everyone

It can take some time to fully understand what it means to be an inclusive workplace. It’s about more than just being respectful of the people around you.

It’s also important to ensure that everyone feels welcomed and comfortable.

When it comes to celebrating the holidays in the workplace, it’s important to take into consideration the differences between your employees. No two people are the same, and it’s very important to acknowledge that.

Now is the time to celebrate your diverse workforce!

The foundation of enjoyable holiday celebrations

That brings us to the first letter of our acronym; P – Plan diverse activities that are fun for everyone.

The foundation of best practices for inclusive holiday celebrations are the activities you put together. It’s important to incorporate a mix of activities that appeal to different preferences and abilities.

That way, no one feels left out at all!

However, it might be more challenging than you might think to put together truly enjoyable and fun entertainment. And that’s one of the few reasons why you need to book an emcee for your office holiday festivities.

The perfect event emcee is a must for inclusive holiday celebrations

With a corporate event Master of Ceremonies at the helm, you’ll be able to put on some truly engaging and interactive things to do at your workplace celebration. That’s what a great speaker can do for you!

But when it comes down to it, offering a diverse range of activities allows you to engage a broad spectrum of participants at your holiday celebration.

Bonus: What Is B2B Event Planning? Your Complete Guide

#2. A – Acknowledge different holiday traditions and cultures

When the holiday season rolls around, many people celebrate in different ways. To create an inclusive environment, you should encourage employees to enjoy the festive season the way they want to.

Start by highlighting the rich tapestry of traditions within your workplace. Celebrate what makes each person unique and different.

Let employees know that they’re welcome to share their unique customs and holiday traditions as they see fit.

Along these lines, it’s important to also not push a personal agenda. Create an atmosphere that welcomes all religious holidays and various backgrounds without prioritizing one over another.

#3. R – Respect the preferences of your employees

It’s important to consciously respect the preferences of your many employees. And this extends way past the larger implications of any holiday party.

For example, if a team member has a peanut allergy, be sure your catered dishes don’t include any traces of nuts. If you have gluten-free employees, be sure to include some food options that don’t have gluten.

To be fully aware of any and everything you’ll need to take into consideration, be sure to consult with your employees beforehand. That’s the only way you’ll know about the things you should incorporate into your event! Plus, it’s always a good idea to ensure everyone’s on the same page.

#4. T – Take some time to learn about your employees

The holiday season is all about spending time with the people closest to you. And it’s important to make sure that you spend some of that time with your team.

That’s why hosting an inclusive holiday celebration is so important!

Not only will it show your employees that you truly care about them, but it will also give everyone some time to spend with their coworkers outside of the office.

But even before the day of your office holiday party, be sure to spend some time getting to know your employees. Plus, the benefits of doing this extend way past your holiday celebrations.

For instance, learning more about your team and growing closer with your employees will help you better manage them. You’ll be more familiar with what works, and what doesn’t. It’s important to understand what your employees respond well to.

By understanding your team on a deeper level, you’ll also be able to successfully combine their strengths and help them become more efficient.

Don’t underestimate the power of showing your team that you care

Some quality one-on-one time engaging in team-building activities or simply joshing around will be instrumental in building a positive company culture. And that’s the foundation of an inclusive workplace.

#5. Y – Yield an open and welcoming environment

There are many ways that you can cultivate an inclusive culture around the office. Even if your team is comprised of solely remote workers, it’s still important to do what you can to have a fun holiday party for your staff members.

And there are many ways you can do this, even before your holiday celebration begins.

One popular way to help create a more inclusive workplace is by offering floating holidays instead of set time off. This promotes holiday inclusivity and allows employees to use their time off to celebrate holidays as they want!

Final thoughts

Putting together some fun, enjoyable, and inclusive holiday celebrations in the workplace is essential if you want to boost morale and fill the air with festive cheer. When it comes down to it, inclusive holidays are the key to a positive workplace culture!

Keep Reading: 5 Holiday Fundraising Ideas From A Corporate Emcee

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Adam Christing has been called “The Tom Brady of emcees.” He has hosted more than 1,000 company meetings, special events, gala celebrations, and more. He is the author of several books and founder of CleanComedians.com. For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

The post 5 Ways To Make Your Workplace Festivities Inclusive During The Holidays appeared first on Adam Christing.

At a glance

1. Have a gingerbread house decorating contest with some friendly competition
2. Host an ugly sweater party that inspires unique style
3. Run a Christmas Walk-a-thon that gets people moving
4. Throw a holiday gala with various auctions
5. Sell tickets to a delicious Christmas cookie bake sale

It’s not easy to successfully juggle meeting your donation goals and properly entertaining your guests at once. But without the perfect theme for your winter wonderland fundraiser, it’ll be hard to keep donors interested!

Keep reading, and I’ll share my favorite holiday fundraising ideas as a professional corporate emcee.

See Related: 5 Thanksgiving Fundraising Ideas For Your Next Corporate Event

#1. Have a gingerbread house decorating contest with some friendly competition

The holiday season is the most gracious and heartwarming time of the year. These cozy months inspire giving and empathy in us all, and that’s why fundraisers do so well during the holidays!

There are so many fantastic Christmas fundraising ideas that can help your cause take off. And finding a truly engaging and unique holiday fundraising idea will create the foundation for your holiday fundraiser success.

Here’s an idea for a holiday fundraiser with a sweet edge

Hosting a fun gingerbread house contest not only utilizes some engaging, friendly competition but also lets your guests walk away with an extra tasty treat. Plus, gingerbread houses are so iconic during the holiday season.

Supply things like gingerbread for the house walls, and plenty of candies for decorations. Don’t forget some tools that will make constructing a bit easier.

To raise money, charge an entry fee for participants to cover things like supplies and then some extra to go towards your fundraising goals.

Then, at the end of it all, award the best gingerbread creations with a prize, and let everyone dig into their sweet builds. Tasty!

#2. Host an ugly sweater party that inspires unique style

No matter how stylish you may consider yourself, everyone has an ugly Christmas sweater hiding away in the depths of their closets. And if you don’t, it’s easy to pick one up at a thrift store just in time for your ugly sweater fundraising party.

Regardless, it’s time to showcase your edgy holiday style with an uncomfortably fuzzy turtleneck!

For this holiday fundraiser, be sure to set up your donation channels, and encourage your party guests to send funds to support the cause while enjoying a night of fashionable giving.

You can even spice up your holiday party by offering prizes to the best dressed or most creative efforts. The competition categories are endless!

#3. Run a Christmas Walk-a-thon that gets people moving

Even though it’s winter, making your holiday fundraiser outdoors can help encourage better health and wellness while raising money for a good cause. I’m talking about a walk-a-thon! However, this Christmas fundraising idea works best in warmer climates.

To make your Christmas walk-a-thon a bit more engaging, encourage your participants to dress up in their favorite holiday outfits. You’re bound to see more than one Santa Claus on the streets!

To raise money, you can either collect donations through registration fees or through pledges. Find a way that works best for your holiday fundraising events.

#4. Throw a holiday gala with various auctions

Though many holiday fundraising ideas are simplistic, cozy, and laid-back, you can instead make it a bit more glamorous.

Set a fundraising goal complete with a fundraising thermometer to visually showcase the progress of your efforts. Encourage your guests to donate so that you can reach your fundraising goals by midnight.

To host a successful gala, you can’t forget the details like delicious catered meals from local restaurants and luxuriously elegant decorations. Just be sure you don’t forget the most essential element – an enticing event speaker!

A Master of Ceremonies will guide your fundraising gala to success

A great emcee will not only ensure your guests are entertained from start to finish, but they’ll also smoothly and efficiently guide the festivities.

An emcee is even more essential if you plan to incorporate a charity auction in your gala to help raise money. And an auction can help you bring in a bit more money to support your cause while further engaging your guests.

Bonus: 6 Company Holiday Party Ideas From A Master of Ceremonies

#5. Sell tickets to a delicious Christmas cookie bake sale

It’s time to warm your oven and the hearts of your event attendees. A Christmas cookie-baking party is perfect for encouraging people to get together for a heartfelt event while raising money for your fundraiser.

Charge a few dollars or so for entry, and continue to accept donations as the party progresses. Plus, these holiday treats will ensure your guests are fed and satisfied, thus further compelling them to give.

After all, it’s hard to feel charitable on an empty stomach!

Don’t forget to add a hot chocolate stand so that you can include the perfect pairing for these sugary Christmas treats.

If you want to change it up a bit, you can instead host an ornament decorating party. Anything holiday-themed is always a “go”!

How to successfully raise money at your fundraiser during the HOLIDAY season

Hosting a fundraising event can be a long, complex process, but it is so rewarding in the end – especially if you hit your donation goals without a hitch.

Particularly during the holiday season, your fundraising efforts can be much more meaningful if you know how to put them together right.

During these cozy, heartwarming months, donors are more likely than ever to whip out their wallets and contribute to your cause.

Now is the time to host a holiday fundraising event for the books

In fact, one-third of annual giving happens in the month of December. It sure is worth it to take advantage of this particular time of year if you’re looking to put together a fundraiser!

Though it might be substantially easier to garner donations during the holidays, that doesn’t mean you’re automatically guaranteed to have a successful event on hand. Luckily, there are a few tips and tricks that can help ensure your event’s success.

Sometimes, all it takes is a bit of passion and pizazz to propel your holiday fundraising campaign

As an experienced Master of Ceremonies, I’ve hosted plenty of holiday corporate events and fundraisers. Over the years, I’ve learned plenty about what it takes to put together a great fundraiser.

Let me break it all down with the acronym HOLIDAY: Highlight the cause you’re promoting, Organize and strategize outreach efforts, Liven up your chosen entertainment, Involve the community around you, Diversify possible donation channels, Appreciate and recognize those who contribute, and Year-end appeal and the holiday spirit.

Keep reading to learn more!

#1: H – Highlight the cause you’re promoting

The foundation of any fundraiser is the cause propelling it forward. And you need to capitalize upon your cause if you want to truly make an impact!

To increase donations, awareness, and interest, you need to create a compelling narrative that paints a vivid picture of your cause for your event attendees.

Don’t forget to utilize things like videos, personal anecdotes, and testimonials to call upon the emotions of your guests in order to help them connect to your cause. Be clear about how their support directly affects your cause and how they can really make a difference!

#2: O – Organize and strategize outreach efforts

Your holiday fundraising idea won’t be truly successful if you don’t take adequate time and effort behind the scenes to get everything ready. Planning and organization are critical.

You should develop a comprehensive marketing plan that outlines things like social media outreach, partnerships with people who can promote your cause, and general marketing strategies.

You can’t expect to raise funds and awareness if your outreach campaigns don’t reach the people who can make that difference!

#3: L – Liven up your chosen entertainment

Though you may be primarily concerned with the donations that you get at your holiday fundraising event, that’s not all you need to think about.

After all, all fundraisers are still events that should provide guests with a memorable and exciting experience!

Create a colorful event by incorporating things like holiday decorations, holiday music, and plenty of interactive activities that keep people entertained. But the key to lively and enjoyable entertainment lies in booking the perfect event emcee.

With a great Master of Ceremonies running the show, you can rest assured that your guests enjoy a positive, entertaining, and enlightening experience

By having an emcee host your fundraiser, your event will run smoothly and seamlessly. Even if something goes awry, a great MC can get everything back on track without even a small hiccup!

#4: I – Involve the community around you

Holiday fundraisers rely on community members in order to raise money and meet donation goals. You need to understand the importance of the people around you and your nonprofit organization.

Start by establishing partnerships with local businesses, schools, and other organizations. Encourage them to participate in the event, interact with the cause, or contribute in terms of sponsorships.

It’s also a good idea to utilize the local community to help raise awareness for your cause!

#5: D – Diversify possible donation channels

You need to be efficient in terms of gathering donations. It’s important to diversify your donation channels if you want to give community members and other supporters as many chances as possible to contribute to your cause.

Be sure to implement user-friendly online donation platforms that make it easy for any and everyone to support your cause. Things like donations via text messages or mobile apps as well as QR codes can make a world of difference in modernizing your fundraiser.

Nothing would be worse than losing potential funds just because someone can’t figure out how to donate!

#6: A – Appreciate and recognize those who contribute

You need to maintain an air of positivity surrounding your cause. You also need to be sure to appreciate donors and supporters, which will encourage them to give more now and in the future!

From sending personalized thank-you notes to sending sponsor shoutouts on social media, finding ways to appreciate and recognize your donors will not only help you express your genuine gratitude but will also reinforce the positive impact of donations.

#7: Y – Year-end appeal and the holiday spirit

As I said, the end of the year is an important time for giving. Take advantage of these holiday months to gather as many donations as you can.

Things like implementing a year-end countdown to instill a sense of urgency or leveraging the season’s festive feeling can help expand your fundraising efforts.

Wrapping up

The best holiday fundraising ideas will create the foundation for a successful venture. Raising funds to support your cause is easiest when you know how to use holiday cheer to tap into the gracious nature of the holiday season!

Keep Reading: What Is B2B Event Planning? Your Complete Guide

—

Adam Christing has been called “The Tom Brady of emcees.” He has hosted more than 1,000 company meetings, special events, gala celebrations, and more. He is the author of several books and founder of CleanComedians.com. For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

The post 5 Holiday Fundraising Ideas From A Corporate Emcee appeared first on Adam Christing.

At a glance

• B2B stands for business-to-business and refers to the interactions and transactions between different organizations or businesses.
• Trade shows are exhibitions that are a type of B2B event that help bring different people in an industry together to connect.
• Conferences are similar to trade shows, but they involve different educational engagements and content from industry experts.
• Product launches give you and your brand the perfect chance to showcase your new products to the right crowd.
• It’s becoming increasingly common to host online B2B events over in-person events.
• Having an emcee at your event is crucial if you want to ensure it runs smoothly while keeping your attendees engaged.
• Be sure to understand your target audience, create a compelling agenda, utilize modern technology, and reflect on your event to ensure the success of your B2B event!

However, planning an entire B2B event, complete with enlightening entertainment and delicious dishes, might not be as simple as it looks on the outside. I’ve played my part on stage for countless events, and I know the true power of these evenings when it comes to driving your business’s growth.

Keep reading, and I’ll share with you the ultimate guide to B2B event planning.

See Related: Your Guide To A Gala Dinner Emcee Script

What are the different types of B2B events?

B2B, which stands for business-to-business, refers to transactions between two businesses.

When it comes to B2B event marketing, this is more about targeting other businesses or organizations in your endeavors.

So, at your event, instead of inviting solely potential clients or customers, you’re looking to connect with other industry professionals!

Unlike B2C events, business-to-consumer, your target audience will likely be much more specialized and unique.

B2B events come in several forms, with each one serving a particular purpose.

Let’s review.

Trade shows

Many B2B event marketing strategies involve multiple businesses.

After all, it’s more efficient to have more than one organization represented at an event. Plus, it’s better for generating leads!

At trade shows, businesses often showcase their products, services, and innovative ideas to others in a specific industry.

A trade show makes for a great networking event and gives an excellent opportunity to boost your brand.

However, much of the time, trade shows aren’t open to the general public and are instead invite-only events.

Specific types of trade show events include workshops, networking events, or other exhibition spaces.

Conferences

Conferences are similar to trade shows in that they help bring together multiple people from the same industry.

From thought leaders to industry experts, conferences can help provide valuable insights while encouraging you to expand your professional network.

Conferences are typically large-scale and can span several days. From interactive seminars to fun team-building activities, there are usually various engagements that take place during a conference.

Product launches

Many businesses are often looking to expose their new product to the right people. And a B2B event is the perfect chance to introduce your offerings to new customers and other business owners.

Successful B2B event marketing is a surefire way to generate buzz for your brand and any upcoming events while garnering valuable feedback!

Virtual events and webinars

In today’s post-Covid world, it’s more and more common for events to take place online. In-person events aren’t always the right for everyone, and hosting a virtual or hybrid event might help you reach your event goals more quickly and efficiently!

It’s possible to execute nearly any B2B event type online, depending on your unique situation. Plus, online or hybrid events can help you reach a broader audience and more potential customers.

From an educational webinar to any type of live stream, online events can help you and your brand reach new heights!

Though there are countless other types of B2B events, these are the big ones you should be thinking about.

Bonus: 5 Thanksgiving Fundraising Ideas For Your Next Corporate Event

What are the benefits of hosting a B2B event?

When you host an event, it’s not just about keeping the people entertained from start to finish (though that is, undoubtedly, a huge part of it!)

Especially when it comes to B2B events, it’s important to understand the profound benefits that it can bring to your company or organization.

Let me break down eight key advantages of holding a B2B event for your company with the acronym BUSINESS: B – Better brand exposure, U – Unique market insights, S – Strategic partnerships, I – Improved brand visibility, N – Networking opportunities, E – Enhanced business development, S – Stimulated lead generation, and S – Stronger customer retention.

B – Better brand exposure

Building a successful brand means knowing how to market it. Establishing a memorable brand isn’t a simple task by any means, and it takes lots of time, effort, and dedication to make your name known!

Marketing events are likely the perfect chance to help others in the industry recognize your brand and company. The right event is an experience, and this experience will be many people’s first taste of what you have to offer.

Now is the perfect chance to showcase your brand to the right people!

U – Unique market insights

Running a successful company and a powerful brand is all about knowing the market.

Understanding things like what’s hot and who your competitors are is just the start of it. That’s because you need to understand a whole lot about the market if you want to understand how to use it to your advantage.

B2B event marketing and planning will teach you a lot about the market. That way, you’ll have a unique opportunity to gather research and insights pertaining to your particular industry.

S – Strategic partnerships

Creating meaningful connections with other businesses, potential clients, and industry professionals will help you create a solid foundation for your brand and any future events.

This will be a great chance to create some collaborative opportunities for now or in the future!

I – Improved brand visibility

In addition to boosting your brand’s exposure, you can also increase brand awareness and visibility.

With the perfect event marketing strategy and the right leverage, you can successfully launch your organization and brand into the forefront. This is also key in helping you attract the right audience to your brand.

N – Networking opportunities

Business-to-business events are all about connecting organizations and businesses within a particular industry to each other.

Event organizers often seek to help event attendees network. And, when it comes to B2B events, there’s no better chance to do so than now.

Industry professionals, current and potential clients, and business leaders are likely to make an appearance at your upcoming event. By taking the time to network, you are paving the way for future collaboration, partnerships, and business opportunities!

E – Enhanced business development

Part of running an organization is looking for new and innovative chances to develop the business.

By helping you connect your brand to other businesses and individuals, you’re helping your business in more ways than one. This is the foundation of genuine and long-lasting business development and growth!

S – Stimulated lead generation

Whether you’re selling an exciting, trendy item or some new, innovative software, it’s important to utilize networking opportunities and B2B events to find potential clients.

Adequate lead generation efforts will help you connect your brand to the right people who will drive its success. B2B events provide the perfect opportunity to generate quality leads from your industry.

S – Stronger customer retention

Most businesses are nothing without their customers!

You need to take considerable time and effort in order to make your clients and customers feel appreciated and wanted. You need to engage with current customers while enticing potential clients.

This will help you improve things like business relationships and customer loyalty.

The key to B2B event planning and hosting

When it comes to B2B event marketing and planning, it’s important to make sure you cover all of your bases.

You can’t let anything fall through the cracks if you want to have a successful event. This will also help you provide a memorable and engaging experience for your potential attendees!

Though there’s plenty that goes on behind the scenes when establishing event objectives and putting everything together, the real magic happens on stage. You need to find the perfect Master of Ceremonies to guide the festivities while ensuring the evening runs smoothly!

What can an amazing emcee do for your B2B event?

With the right emcee on stage, you can ensure your attendees are truly treated to an amazing experience. Whether your guests are business owners or industry experts, they deserve to be entertained in the right way.

The event planning process can be long and complicated, and it can be a true challenge if you’re not fully prepared. But one thing all event planners can agree upon is the value of a notable and effective keynote speaker.

Giving your event attendees the guidance and encouragement they need

Not all emcees are created equally, and it’s important to find someone who knows how to support and nurture your B2B event. A great Master of Ceremonies can ensure your event’s success while encouraging networking for everyone involved.

Plus, emcees are masters in audience interaction. If you want to give your attendees an experience worth remembering, this is the way to do it!

Things to keep in mind when planning your event

B2B event marketing and planning is a journey that can involve plenty y of different moving parts. And because of that, it can be a challenge to juggle it all!

I know how daunting it can be to plan an entire event, even if you have a trusted and reliable team on your side. So, here are a few foundational things you should keep in mind when planning your next event.

#1. Identify your target audience and your event goals

From networking events to virtual events, no function would be successful without proper analysis of a target audience. You need to know who you’re trying to reach so that you can adjust your message fittingly!

Your B2B event marketing strategy should focus heavily on the people, organizations, or markets you’re trying to reach.

You should take all of that into account when planning and executing your event strategy!

#2. Create an agenda that is both compelling and informative

Though the planning and preparation of an event beforehand is undoubtedly one of the most vital parts of it all, you can’t underestimate what happens during the event.

Take plenty of time and effort to create an agenda that showcases an exciting and intriguing experience for your attendees. That’s where booking a fantastic emcee will save the day!

#3. Be sure to utilize modern technology to its full extent

As we near 2024, you should already know that event technology will be your best friend during the B2B event marketing and planning process.

From utilizing event planning software to taking advantage of social media platforms in your marketing efforts, the right tools can help streamline the processes while exposing you to a wealth of information.

#4. Analyze the effectiveness of your event marketing strategy for future events

At the end of the evening, as guests trickle home with their party favors, it’s time to look ahead to the future. Iteration is essential for executing a successful B2B event marketing strategy.

Throughout it all, be sure to keep up with things like key performance indicators, attendance rates, and lead generation so that you can see what works and what doesn’t.

That way, you’ll be set up for success at the next event!

Wrapping up

Hosting a B2B event might be just what your business needs to find some new success and drive. All you need is an entertaining emcee, the right team on your side, and this guide to ensure your event is one for the books!

Keep Reading: 6 Company Holiday Party Ideas From A Master of Ceremonies

—

Adam Christing has been called “The Tom Brady of emcees.” He has hosted more than 1,000 company meetings, special events, gala celebrations, and more. He is the author of several books and founder of CleanComedians.com. For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

The post What Is B2B Event Planning? Your Complete Guide appeared first on Adam Christing.

Key takeaways

1. Play some virtual holiday games with your remote employees
2. Host a fun-lovin’ throwback holiday party
3. Have a holistic self-care day at the office
4. Put together a tree decorating competition
5. Sweeten things up with a Christmas cookie and candy bar
6. Bring in everyone’s furry friends for a pet holiday party

Your holiday celebration should entail more than a measly Christmas tree stuffed in the corner and a few iced sugar cookies. Instead, you should take the time and effort to facilitate a corporate event that you can be proud to send invites for!

Keep reading, and I’ll share my six favorite corporate holiday party ideas.

See Related: Your Guide To A Gala Dinner Emcee Script

#1. Play some virtual holiday games with your remote employees

Regardless of how spread out your team might be, it’s easier than ever in this day and age to connect with people across vast distances.

So, even if your workforce is primarily made of remote workers, it’s actually incredibly easy to still enjoy the holiday spirit together!

Finding unique corporate holiday party ideas that your team will love

Instead of taking time and effort to plan an elaborate in-person corporate event, you can do the same thing, but online. Virtual parties make it easy for everyone to gather together in a laid-back and relaxed manner without worrying about things like traffic or parking.

Online holiday games can be fun for any and everyone to engage in while promoting team-building and bonding. And that’s what the holidays should be about.

When it comes down to it, it’s important to find ways at all times of the year to connect with your workers. The holidays just give you the perfect excuse to do so!

#2. Host a fun-lovin’ throwback holiday party

Especially if your office is predominantly an older crowd, a throwback holiday party is perfect for igniting positive bonds while tapping into some heartwarming nostalgia.

Incorporate plenty of throwback elements for your team

For this party to truly rock, start off by grabbing a karaoke machine.

Or, you can always use some backing tracks from YouTube (it is 2023, after all). Some tunes from the 90’s or 00’s are the perfect way to get people jammin’!

You can continue the festivities with some “old-fashioned” board games like Grape Escape, Mr. Bucket, or Jumanji.

Throw in a friendly competition or two!

You can promote some friendly company-wide competition by having a throwback outfit contest. Now is the time to bust out those grunge, ripped jeans and neon windbreakers!

#3. Have a holistic self-care day at the office

Most of the time, employees can easily feel burnt out or stressed out by workplace antics. Whether they are worried about interacting with a specific coworker or are anxious in regard to an upcoming deadline, it’s easy for modern-day workers to start to feel the pressures of the workplace.

Treat the entire office to a holiday party they can truly benefit from

So, one of the best holiday party ideas for this season is to help your team let go of these worries and woes.

And the best way to do that is by having a holistic self-care get-together!

Sometimes, less is more. And it might be more valuable to your team to have a meaningful day full of self-love and team bonding.

Plus, some genuine rest and relaxation will help your team feel ready to take on anything that comes their way when they return to the office.

#4. Put together a tree decorating competition

Events that encourage attendees to work together through some friendly competition are often best. And a tree decorating competition is the perfect way to do just that during the holidays!

Not only is this activity fun for everyone, but it’s also pretty easy to put together.

Bonus: 7 Workplace Hospitality Tips From A Corporate Emcee

Rockin’ around the mini tree

Start by getting plenty of mini trees along with ornaments if your team isn’t bringing their own. Be sure to split everyone into small groups and give them a limited amount of time to decorate and spruce up their trees!

How to host a tree decorating competition for a virtual party

One of the best parts of this idea is that it’s easy to invite employees virtually. You can even reinstate it every year for a fun office holiday tradition!

Instead of providing mini trees for your team, encourage employees to share their own at-home tree designs that they put together with their families.

#5. Sweeten things up with a Christmas cookie and candy bar

Everyone knows that one of the best parts of the seasonal holidays is the delicious eats and sweet treats.

Your annual holiday party won’t be complete without a festive cookie or candy bar to keep things tasty. This will always be the part they look forward to the most!

The best way to get into the Christmas spirit

Plus, this idea is amazingly simple and easy to execute, even if you have a tight budget. Just buy some fancy glass containers at a discount store or the Dollar Tree, and then get candy, cookies, and cakes in bulk.

Finish off your spread with plenty of colored frostings and sprinkles, and you’ll be all ready to go!

(Don’t forget things like tongs, scoops, and baggies.)

Elaborate on it by adding a warm beverage bar

What makes cookies and cakes better? Matching them with a warm drink, worthy of your annual Christmas party!

Offer the basics like coffee and tea, and don’t forget the seasonal favorites like hot cocoa and apple cider. Add some things to spice it all up, like cinnamon, pumpkin spice syrups, and candy canes.

#6. Bring in everyone’s furry friends for a pet holiday party

Most company holiday parties welcome the families of employees, but what about their furry friends?

Be sure to consider having a separate party for cats and dogs. You don’t need any feisty fights!

Bring in plenty of snacks and treats that are pet-friendly, and encourage your employees to bring a pet costume or two.

Even if you don’t want to make a big deal of it, it might be enough to simply invite your employees’ best friends to the show as well.

How to host a corporate event during the holiday season

No company is complete without a designated annual event that draws intrigue and attention. Plenty of your employees are likely looking forward to this day to spend some time out of the office with their favorite coworkers in a fun and festive environment!

However, not all annual holiday parties are created equally. You need to be able to identify the characteristics that make your team who they are and then capitalize upon them!

Take it from a professional event host

I’ve hosted countless corporate events, which have included plenty of colorful and warmhearted corporate holiday parties. In my years as an emcee (over twenty years, in fact), I’ve been able to identify a few key characteristics that all the best corporate Christmas party ideas have in common.

Let me break it down for you with the acronym PARTY: P – Plan out your menu, A – Accommodate everyone, R – Relax, and let your hair down, T – Take time to find the perfect entertainment, and Y – You should be generous.

P – Plan out your menu

One of the best parts of an office holiday party is the food. In fact, that’s one of the best parts of the holidays in general!

So, if you want to avoid disappointing your party guests and employees, take time beforehand (and make sure it’s plenty of time) to plan out your menu. Figure out what kind of food and beverages you want to provide, then find the best places to get it all from.

Feel free to get creative with your menu

Most of the time, you’ll be best off with catering your food from a local restaurant.

But you can also take it in any number of directions – if you live in a warmer climate, maybe you could bring in some food trucks! Or, if you are hosting a low-key holiday work party, you can try a potluck where people bring dishes from.

A – Accommodate everyone

If you really want to get into the holiday spirit at your upcoming party, you can’t leave anyone out. Each and every employee deserves to feel welcomed and wanted – that’s how you’ll truly cultivate an atmosphere of appreciation and camaraderie!

To do this, you need to be sure to accommodate everyone. This can look like many different things.

For example, if someone is allergic to peanut butter, be sure to skip the peanut brittle this year.

Just be sure to do things that will only contribute to the team as a whole!

R – Relax, and let your hair down

Now is not the time to be worried about the upcoming sales meeting. You shouldn’t be burdening your team members with work talk – now is the time they have been waiting for to finally let loose!

Bonding with your workers outside of the office is essential for improving morale, boosting employee engagement, and promoting productivity. Plus, helping your workers become more comfortable with each other is key to encouraging teamwork and collaboration year-round.

So, use this time at your upcoming company holiday party to show your employees that you value positive workplace relationships by letting them mingle and jingle!

T – Take time to find the perfect entertainment

There are a few things that every good party needs. But the foundation of it all is amazing entertainment that keeps people engaged and feeling good from the moment they walk through the door to the moment they take their party favors home.

Whether you want to book a live band and set up a dance floor or call in a professional corporate emcee to guide the festivities, it’s important to find entertainment that can really speak to your team.

The foundation for any and all holiday parties

Regardless of the type of party you decide to host, you can never go wrong with a Master of Ceremonies. In fact, no holiday party is complete without one.

A great event speaker will be instrumental in ensuring the event stays on track while keeping the crowd laughing!

Y – You should be generous

Everyone knows that the holiday season is a time for giving and cheer. So, give in to that feeling!

Be generous with anything from the serving sizes of the food to the time off you give your employees to spend Christmas with their families. Your employees will remember all of your selflessness, and your generosity will help create a positive atmosphere at your holiday party!

Wrapping up

Putting together a killer company holiday party is a must for each and every year. Your employees deserve to look forward to an evening of festive fun and cheer!

Keep Reading: 5 Thanksgiving Fundraising Ideas For Your Next Corporate Event

—

Adam Christing has been called “The Tom Brady of emcees.” He has hosted more than 1,000 company meetings, special events, gala celebrations, and more. He is the author of several books and founder of CleanComedians.com. For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

The post 6 Company Holiday Party Ideas From A Master of Ceremonies appeared first on Adam Christing.

Key takeaways

1. Have a Thanksgiving giveaway on social media
2. Raise money through a Giving Tuesday event
3. Host a pumpkin carving contest
4. Gather the community with a Harvest Dinner
5. Pledge money through a Turkey Trot

If you have a fundraiser taking place in the near future, it’s important to find heartwarming ways to inspire gratitude and grace. I’ve hosted my fair share of corporate events and fundraising functions and discovered that the key lies in narrowing down the perfect theme!

Keep reading, and I’ll share the best Thanksgiving fundraising ideas for a successful event.

See Related: 5 Fresh Team Building Activities To Celebrate Thanksgiving At Work

#1. Have a Thanksgiving giveaway on social media

When it comes to fundraisers, it’s important to find the perfect idea that will help you reach your goals.

As a corporate emcee, I’ve seen the value of setting objectives for any and all events, from corporate events to online fundraising. That’s how you’ll be able to measure your success.

The key to your event’s success lies in the perfect speaker running the show

If you want to create a solid foundation for your upcoming event, don’t forget to book a Master of Ceremonies who can guide you to success. An excellent speaker will not only entertain the crowd but also help behind the scenes.

Sometimes, simplistic ideas are better

Bigger isn’t always better. Though it’s never a bad idea to put together a large-scale event, complete with catered foods, live bands, and a hilarious emcee, maybe your budget doesn’t allow for that.

Instead, your Thanksgiving fundraiser can be just as successful if you host it online!

How to put together a social media giveaway

An online fundraising page is more powerful than you might think.

In today’s day and age, everyone likely has multiple social media channels. And it’s easier than ever to use that to your advantage!

By hosting a social media giveaway, you can engage with donors in the blink of an eye, no matter where they might be located. It’s a great way to reach a wider audience and collect more donations.

Online events can offer some amazing benefits

Unlike an in-person event, you can easily interact with countless individuals interested in your cause, all without the hassle of putting together a typical fundraising event.

A Thanksgiving-themed giveaway paired with an online campaign will be instrumental in generating buzz surrounding your cause while encouraging giving and rewarding donations.

#2. Raise money through a Giving Tuesday event

The first Tuesday after Thanksgiving each year is known as Giving Tuesday. This day is well-known to any fundraising guru and is perhaps one of the most valuable days for non-profits.

Bonus: 7 Workplace Hospitality Tips From A Corporate Emcee

The perfect opportunity for your upcoming fundraiser

Giving Tuesday is usually one of the best days of the year for gathering donations.

It’s known as the Global Giving Day and is marked by people’s willingness to support important causes!

As we continue through the fall season and enter into the winter holidays, it’s important not to overlook this day, especially if you’re looking for an effective way to raise more money for your cause.

#3. Host pumpkin carving contests

Nothing screams “Thanksgiving” quite like carved squashes.

If you want to put together a fundraiser that will help you collect donations while playing into the comforting coziness of fall, this is one of the best ideas you can go for.

Putting together a pumpkin contest that’s fun for everyone

For this event, you can raise funds by charging a small entry fee for participants. You can also solicit donations with a pumpkin sale if people don’t want to bring their own.

Your team can help supply the tools for carving and (if there are a lot of participants) divide up the contest into different age groups or themes. That way, it’s a bit more fair.

Don’t forget to offer prizes to the best pumpkin carvings!

#4. Gather the community with a Harvest Dinner

The best fundraising events call upon warm feelings of camaraderie and teamwork in order to invoke feelings of need and gratitude. Gathering community members together for a Thanksgiving dinner is a great way to raise awareness for your cause in a comfortable environment while collecting money.

To raise funds, host your Thanksgiving-themed dinner at a local restaurant and start by selling tickets at the door.

Make it about more than just a holiday season meal

You can also gather sponsors for your event as you see fit and sell items like branded swag. Talk to local businesses and find more things to sell at your fundraiser, like specially curated gift baskets, homemade pumpkin pies, and other baked goods.

#5. Pledge money through a Turkey Trot

A-thons are one of the best ways to support your cause. It’s a great idea to consider!

Your Turkey Trot could be a 5k race or a walk-a-thon event (be sure to consider your audience.) All you need to do is charge a registration fee or gather money from pledges and peer-to-peer fundraising.

Don’t forget to offer some fun prizes along the way!

How to make your fundraising event stand out

If you want to host a truly remarkable and heartwarming fundraiser, you can’t neglect the basics.

There are a few KEY aspects that all great fall fundraising ideas have. And it’s important to incorporate them all if you want the evening to end in success and you hitting your donation goal!

Let me break it down with the acronym KEY: K – Keep your connections with existing donors, E – Empathize with your cause, and Y – Yearn for the power of gratitude.

K – Keep your connections with existing donors

If you want to raise money for your cause and make an impact, you need to have the resources to do just that!

You shouldn’t forget the goodwill of your past or existing donors. And Thanksgiving is the perfect time to rekindle that flame.

Now is the time to show your appreciation to your donors in order to encourage them to keep giving.

E – Empathize with your cause

The core of anything related to fundraising is a cause you can truly get behind. It’s impossible to successfully raise money for something that you don’t believe in.

People usually give to non-profits or other fundraisers because of the emotional draw.

And the best way to play into this is by sharing the stories behind your cause.

People donate when they feel sympathy!

Y – Yearn for the power of gratitude

Positive emotions are powerful emotions. And gratitude is one of the most powerful of all!

In fact, there is plenty of research out there that shows how gratitude plays a pivotal role in things like willingness to give and generosity.

Be sure to constantly express your gratitude and appreciation. It’s also important for your donors and those who support your cause to understand that you truly appreciate them!

Wrapping up

One of the most important parts of the Thanksgiving holiday is giving. So, if you’re planning to host a fundraiser, it’s well worth it to make it about this gracious holiday!

Finding the perfect theme, along with an excellent event speaker, is the best for you to ensure your event’s success. That’s perhaps the best way to hit your donation goals!

Keep Reading: Your Guide To A Gala Dinner Emcee Script

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Adam Christing has been called “The Tom Brady of emcees.” He has hosted more than 1,000 company meetings, special events, gala celebrations, and more. He is the author of several books and founder of CleanComedians.com. For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

The post 5 Thanksgiving Fundraising Ideas For Your Next Corporate Event appeared first on Adam Christing.

At a glance

• It’s important to take plenty of time before your annual dinner event to plan and prepare. That way, you can show up ready to give your best.
• As the event kicks off, as the emcee, you’ll likely give your first speech around this time as people filter in.
• Keep in mind that, as the event’s MC, it’s up to you to ensure people feel welcomed and stay entertained!
• Always remember that you can’t use the same script for every event. You’ll need to change it up and adjust it in order to reflect your unique audience and organization.

Each organization deserves to put together a killer event for their employees, but that’s only possible with the perfect Master of Ceremonies at the helm. So, if you’re booked as a speaker for an annual dinner event, this script will be your saving grace.

Keep reading, and I’ll share some of my tips, tricks, and scripts for an annual event. This is coming from an experienced corporate emcee, so you can trust what I say!

See Related: 5 Giving Tuesday Ideas With A Corporate Master Of Ceremonies

An example of what the flow of the evening might look like

When it comes to any event, the key to success lies in preparation. If you’re adequately organized for the big evening, it’s more likely than not to be a hit!

Whether you’re an event organizer or a keynote speaker, it’s important to spend time beforehand getting acquainted with what a typical program might look like.

So, let’s break it down.

Your event will likely be kicked off with guests arriving. Event staff, volunteers, or even you yourself will be present and taking plenty of time to greet guests as they enter. This will help establish a comfortable and warm environment before the festivities even begin.

Keep in mind that, depending on how your event is set up, your guests might also need to take time to check in at the registration table and receive favors, name tags, and/or seating cards. Be sure to help guide people there if they need assistance.

As people enter, the guests are likely starting to mingle. Networking is an important part of any corporate event, and that stays true for gala dinners!

Perhaps at this time, dinner is served either in a buffet style or as plated dishes. It should go without saying that finding the perfect food choices is an integral part of a gala dinner.

As things progress, presentations will likely start to unfold. As the emcee, you’ll likely start your act at this point. Otherwise, there will maybe be speeches from other speakers or an awards ceremony, depending on what type of event this really is.

Once dinner is wrapped up, maybe dessert is served along with coffee and tea. This seemingly minor detail is essential for helping guests continue to feel comfortable and taken care of.

Now, the fun begins.

Once everyone is fed and full, the entertainment for the evening can begin. As the night’s emcee, if you haven’t stepped on stage yet, this is now your time to shine!

Perhaps there is music and dancing, or maybe your role will be to lead everyone in some fun, team-building activities. Regardless of what the rest of the night entails, your job as an emcee is just getting started.

A great MC knows how to coax the festivities to success while ensuring that everyone has a great time. One of your biggest responsibilities is making sure that the fun never ends!

As the event wraps up, you’ll likely give a good night speech, thanking everyone for attending and for the contributions from sponsors or help from volunteers. It’s important to not leave anyone out, as you don’t want anyone walking away with a sour taste in their mouth. Once again, it’s up to you to ensure that everyone feels comfortable, welcomed, and appreciated at all times.

Bonus: 5 Fresh Team Building Activities To Celebrate Thanksgiving At Work

How to make your mark as a great EMCEE

Being a fantastic emcee isn’t as easy as it might seem. In fact, it’s much more challenging than you might expect.

It takes plenty of time, effort, and hard work in order to be a successful public speaker. Whether you’re sitting on a panel or you’re the event’s keynote speaker, be sure to do your due diligence when it comes to practice and preparation.

If you’re looking forward to your next gala dinner, I have a few tips and tricks that will help you be that much better when it comes time to step on stage. I’ll break it down with the acronym EMCEE: Exude confidence, Make it about the crowd, Clean up your act, Encourage participation, and Empower the other speakers.

• Exude confidence: You shouldn’t walk on stage meek and meager. Instead, radiating confidence will help establish you as a trusted speaker while engaging the guests with a wonderful performance.
• Make it about the crowd: Now is not the time for you to try and show off. Make the gala dinner about the organization you’re representing and about making your guests feel their best.
• Clean up your act: Be sure to avoid any profanity or anything unsavory in your act. You should only use clean rhetoric in order to keep people comfortable. That’s the bread and butter of an incredible performance!
• Encourage participation: The worst thing that can happen at your gala dinner is having a dead crowd. It’s up to you to make engagement and participation a priority.
• Empower the other speakers: Most likely, you’re not the only face the audience will see on stage. Be sure to take time to empower the other speakers so that the guests can see a united front.

Example emcee scripts for an annual dinner event

Now that we’ve covered plenty of background information, it’s time to dive into the meat and potatoes of what makes a great script for an annual dinner.

What’s important to keep in mind is that there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all script. Anyone who uses and reuses the same script over and over for their events is likely losing the audience early on. After all, each event is unique, and you need to reflect that in your script.

With that in mind, let me give you a quick run-down of what your emcee script might look like for a gala dinner.

(1) Sample introduction or opening speech

In this scenario, there are two emcees. So, if you are joined on stage with another speaker, you’ll be able to create a great dynamic on stage. This warm opening speech is a great way to start the evening.

• Speaker 1: Good evening, ladies and gentlemen! Thank you for coming out this evening, and welcome to our annual company meeting gala dinner. My name is [your name], and I am thrilled to be one of your MCs for this evening. On stage with me is [co-emcee’s name].
• Speaker 2: Thanks, [your name]! We are both so excited to be here to celebrate another year of success with all of you at [organization’s name].
• Speaker 1: Before we begin, let’s take a moment to send a special thank you to a few of our special guests and VIPs who will be joining us this evening. It’s an honor to have all of you here!
• Speaker 2: At our dinner this year, we wanted to take some time to reflect on the efforts of our team. We’ll be sure to focus on the importance of collaboration and teamwork. Together, as a united team, we’ll be able to accomplish even more as we enter the next year!
• Speaker 1: That’s right, [co-emcee’s name]! So, we’ll let you enjoy this delicious meal, and then we’ll dive into celebrating the accomplishments of the past year. Feel free to mingle, and we’ll be back!
• Speaker 2: We hope you enjoy the rest of your evening, and we look forward to celebrating with you all night long. Bye!

(2) Sample introduction or opening speech

• Speaker 1: Good evening, ladies and gentlemen! We’re more than pleased to be here on stage on behalf of [organization’s name], and we would like to extend a warm welcome to all of you. Thank you for taking the time to join us tonight for our annual company meeting gala dinner. We are thrilled to have each and every one of you here!
• Speaker 2: Tonight’s event is a chance to celebrate the success of the past year. It’s also the perfect opportunity for us all to come together and bask in the warm glow of our accomplishments. This past year was challenging, but it was all more than worth it in the end. Thank you to all of the employees here at [organization’s name] for their continued hard work and dedication. We all look forward to the next year together!
• Speaker 1: Tonight’s theme is [the chosen theme for the evening]. Tonight is all about [expand on what the event’s theme is all about]. We’re so excited to take this time to celebrate our successes as a team, and we all are looking forward to the opportunities that lie in the next year.
• Speaker 2: We have an enlightening and entertaining evening planned for you in order to truly celebrate the past year. We’ll begin shortly with [the opening entertainment for the evening] and then dive into the rest of the festivities as they come.
• Speaker 1: But before we get started, we want to take a moment to acknowledge some of our special guests and VIPs who are here. We are honored to have you all here, and we truly appreciate your continued support through the next year.
• Speaker 2: Now, we’ll let you enjoy your delicious meal this evening and give you a chance to mingle and meet!
• Speaker 1: Thanks, [co-emcee’s name]! And now, without further ado, let’s raise a glass to another year of success. Cheers!

(3) Sample introduction or opening speech

Here’s an example of an opening speech where there is only one emcee – you!

Speaker 1: Good evening to all our respected guests and VIPs this evening. Welcome! My name is [your name], and I want to take a moment to share a few words and give a special shoutout to [names of special guests], who [something notable about these people]. Your work is deeply appreciated.
This past year has been nothing short of extraordinary, and we’ve all accomplished some amazing feats. Everyone who is here tonight has played an integral role in the profound success of [organization’s name], and I want to take a moment to extend a meaningful thank you to everyone in the crowd.
As we continue to strive for greatness in this upcoming year, I want to remind all of you to continue with the fire that carried you and your teammates to success. Tonight is the chance to revel in your accomplishments and treat yourself, starting with this delicious meal!
But that’s not all. Tonight, we are also celebrating the success of [mention a specific accomplishment, such as meeting an awesome sales goal]. All this would not be possible without the continued hard work and dedication of every single employee here today.
Let’s give a big round of applause to all of you!

Keep Reading: 7 Workplace Hospitality Tips From A Corporate Emcee

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Adam Christing has been called “The Tom Brady of emcees.” He has hosted more than 1,000 company meetings, special events, gala celebrations, and more. He is the author of several books and founder of CleanComedians.com. For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

The post Your Guide To A Gala Dinner Emcee Script appeared first on Adam Christing.

Key takeaways

1. Have a delicious Thanksgiving dinner potluck
2. Get into the giving spirit with a donation drive
3. Host a Thanksgiving scavenger hunt
4. Set up a hot cocoa or cider bar
5. Host a Thanksgiving recipe swap

Some festive team-building activities are the best way to encourage bonding, improve engagement, and treat your workers to some energizing antics. A Thanksgiving company event is perfect for getting everyone into the holiday spirit while nurturing a healthy workplace culture.

Keep reading, and I’ll share my top Thanksgiving team-building activities for you and your employees!

See Related: 5 Giving Tuesday Ideas With A Corporate Master Of Ceremonies

#1. Have a delicious Thanksgiving dinner potluck

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, your employees are likely getting ready to enjoy a four-day weekend. However, it’s important to keep them engaged and excited if you want to continue to nurture a positive workplace environment!

As a corporate emcee, I’ve played my part in countless company events, and I’ve led endless team-building exercises. And it’s always amazing to see how activities led by a Master of Ceremonies can really energize and empower a crowd.

There’s nothing that a great speaker can’t do!

Thanksgiving team-building activities are the key to motivating and revitalizing your team

If your employees are starting to lose interest in putting forth their best, some team-building exercises might give them some extra motivation. Though it might seem simple, this is actually key in making sure your company can thrive.

Especially around the holidays and when the colder weather hits, the winter blues might make an unwelcome appearance. That’s where some heartwarming team bonding activities can help boost morale and increase engagement.

A classic and timeless idea for celebrating Thanksgiving as a team

The best team-building exercises are all about spending time together. And there’s nothing better than hosting a team Thanksgiving dinner potluck to bring everyone together!

Everyone knows that the Thanksgiving holiday is all about food. It’s what this entire day was built on. So, it only makes sense to go in that direction if you want to host a workplace holiday function in November.

You can never go wrong with plenty of food to keep the people fed

Putting together a potluck meal is both incredibly enticing (who can resist the delicious eats of the holidays?) and easy to facilitate. All you need to do is create a sign-up sheet for people to bring things like appetizers, drinks, snacks, salads, main dishes, and other non-food options like paper plates or silverware.

Be sure to double-check everything beforehand, so if no one signed up to make a pumpkin pie, you can easily supplement by hiring caterers or the like.

#2. Get into the giving spirit with a donation drive

Thanksgiving is all about being thankful for what you have. But it’s also about giving and making a positive difference in the world!

With a donation drive, you’ll be able to help your team and your organization give back to the community. Not only does it get everyone working together for something good, but it also keeps everyone’s heart warm, no matter how cold it might get in November.

Find a way to give back to the community that really speaks to your team

Each company is unique, and all employees have a different tie to their community. It’s important to capitalize on what matters to them.

You can do anything from donating school supplies to doing a food drive. Other popular options include donating winter coats or supplies for nonprofits to use.

Bonus: 7 Halloween Office Party Ideas You’ll Want To Celebrate With A Spooky Emcee

Make this Thanksgiving team-building activity a regular part of your day-to-day

One of the great things about this choice of team-bonding exercise is that you can make it simply part of your daily activities. An effortless way to incorporate it into the workplace is by setting up donation bins in the breakroom and then encouraging employees to drop off what they can!

Feel free to also turn it into a fun competition, where you can further encourage teamwork, collaboration, and camaraderie.

#3. Host a Thanksgiving scavenger hunt

Scavenger hunts are always a great idea for a team exercise. They’re fun, easy to put together, and end in a memorable evening all around!

So, why not put a Thanksgiving spin on it?

A great way to celebrate Thanksgiving as a team

To play a Thanksgiving-themed scavenger hunt, start by dividing everyone into teams. Or, if you have a particularly small workforce, you can also get by with doing it individually.

Then, give them a set amount of time to find items on a list. The more festive and seasonal the items are, the more Thanksgiving-y it’ll feel.

Some ideas to get you started…

The key to a great Thanksgiving team-bonding scavenger hunt is having the right items on your list. Let me give you a few ideas to get you started. But remember, you can take it in any direction you’d like.

Another great thing to keep in mind is that this is one of the best virtual Thanksgiving ideas for you and your team. It’s easy to set up a video chat and have your team race to find these things around their home:

• • Cloth napkin
  • Something orange
  • Something you are thankful for
  • Sweatpants
  • Turkey baster
  • Cranberry sauce
  • Something with a football on
  • Coffee mug
  • Hot cocoa mix
  • Fuzzy blanket
  • Changing leaves
  • Family board game

#4. Set up a hot cocoa or cider bar

One of the best parts of the Thanksgiving season is all the warm, stomach-soothing beverages that make their annual debut. So, why not bring some of that comfort into the office?

By setting up a hot cocoa, cider, and coffee bar in the office, you can encourage your employees to both relax with a mug of their favorite holiday beverage while taking time to bond with each other. What’s not to love here?

Plus, it’s simple and easy to execute!

Your employees deserve to have a little time during the day to unwind at work

What’s even better is if you find some personalized mugs for your team that they can use to enjoy their at-work beverage or even take home for more frequent use. It’s a fun little treat all around for your hardworking employees!

Don’t forget to load up your station with decorative treats like marshmallows, peppermint, and cinnamon sticks so the drinks can get dressed up.

#5. Host a Thanksgiving recipe swap

If the hot cider and cocoa are trademarks of Thanksgiving, then so is pumpkin pie and stuffing.

Your employees likely have a few recipes up their sleeves that they’re saving for the holidays. However, sharing is caring! So, encourage your team to get into the giving spirit!

A recipe exchange lets your team work together on something that’s not work-related (providing a much-needed break) while encouraging them to bond and be together. Plus, everyone gets to walk away with a new, delicious recipe to try out just in time for their own Thanksgiving holiday party!

Why are team-building exercises important during the holiday season?

Everyone knows that team-building exercises are essential in the workplace. But the real question is why?

Both you and your employees can greatly benefit from some extra focus on bonding and support. Let me use the acronym HOLIDAY to spell out seven ways that team-building activities can benefit your company.

(1) H – Helps promote healthy and harmonious relationships

The relationships your employees build in the workplace are critical to both their overall success as well as their happiness. After all, humans are social creatures, and harmonious relationships are a must in the workplace.

Team-building exercises are essential for promoting harmony among team members. By incorporating these exercises during the holidays, you’ll be able to help foster positive relationships and a sense of unity between your employees.

(2) O – Opens channels of communication

Communication is the lifeblood of any great organization. It’s important to prioritize open channels of communication so that your employees feel comfortable sharing ideas.

These types of team-building ideas are key to encouraging open communication. Plus, they break down barriers and improve the exchange of ideas within the team.

(3) L – Leads employees into confidence and empowerment

Happy employees are empowered and confident in their skills. And it’s important to show them support so that they can thrive and become their best!

Team-building enhances the leadership skills that your employees need. It helps them to take on different roles and responsibilities during the activities, which then extends into their day-to-day routines.

(4) I – Inspires innovation and creative thinking

Team-building activities often involve plenty of creativity and new ideas. That’s an important part!

By engaging in creative and challenging tasks, team members learn to think innovatively. This also helps lead to increased problem-solving abilities.

(5) D – Develop essential decision-making skills

Decision-making skills are essential in the workplace. This is how your employees will find purpose and empowerment while supporting your company’s mission.

Team-building exercises often involve making group decisions. And this, in turn, helps hone your employees’ collective decision-making skills.

(6) A – Adapts your team to change

It’s important for both individuals and your company as a whole to be able to adapt to change. If not, you can be sure that everything will crash and burn eventually!

Through various challenges and team-building exercises, your workers will be able to better learn to adapt to change. This is important in developing resilience, a crucial skill in a dynamic work environment.

(7) Y – Yields an improvement in engagement and productivity

There are a few key metrics that are essential for everything at your organization to run smoothly. A couple of these include employee engagement and productivity.

Investing some time in team-building will help yield positive results, such as improved morale, productivity, and overall team performance.

Final thoughts

Finding the right Thanksgiving-themed activity will help boost morale and create lasting memories for you and your employees. Anything that brings teams together is a great way to go!

Keep Reading: The Importance Of Choosing The Right Venue For Your Next Corporate Event

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Adam Christing has been called “The Tom Brady of emcees.” He has hosted more than 1,000 company meetings, special events, gala celebrations, and more. He is the author of several books and founder of CleanComedians.com. For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

The post 5 Fresh Team-Building Activities To Celebrate Thanksgiving At Work appeared first on Adam Christing.