Last-minute Office Celebrations

Last-minute office celebrations don't have to be as tragic as they are on prime-time sitcoms. In fact, you'd be surprised what you can accomplish in just a few days as long as you're organized.

You need help.

Don't think that you can do the whole thing by yourself. No matter how small an office celebration is, it still requires a lot of planning and running around to get the food, music, decorations and anything else you may need. Also, bouncing ideas off a group of party planners will give you a well-rounded opinion of what the larger group would enjoy.

Remember to delegate.

Give everyone a simple task such as picking up plates and cups so that they can complete it without having to go to several stores. For bigger tasks like organizing entertainment, create a small group of two or three people. Try creating a sign-up sheet and post it in a prominent place in the office so it's easy for volunteers to sign up.

Always have food.

Even if you plan on having a celebration the very next day for a birthday, anniversary or promotion, food is always important. Chips, dip, veggie trays, cookies and other treats are perfect for afternoon celebrations. Don't forget to also provide drinks such as soda and bottles of water.

Provide entertainment.

Generally, just having a radio on in the back of the room won't cut it. It can be an important part of a last-minute party, but there really should be more. If you're having a larger event, you may even be able to find an inexpensive DJ with a small system.

Everyone loves a gift.

You know all those "free gift with purchase" items you've been storing away? It's time to bring them out and raffle them off! If you don't have gifts to raffle, delegate someone to pick up a few gift cards. More often now, grocery stores are carrying gift cards to a variety of stores right near the check-out lines.

Have you seen the latest issue of Quill’s newsletter, The Pen Pal? Check it out!