There are many benefits to having an office party during the holiday season… or at any other time of the year!

• Allows staff to “bond” in a more relaxed, casual environment away from work.
• Improves morale among staff.
• Strengthens relations between staff and management by showing your staff that you appreciate their work.

Sure, there are some cons — parties cost money and they take time to be planned properly.  But happy workers tend to be more productive workers, so treating your staff to an office party can be a worthwhile investment.

How Much Does it Cost?  What’s Included?

All the rates are listed on my pricing page… if a weeknight is your only option, check out my special rates for midweek 3-hour parties.  You’ll save money compared to my regular 4-hour party rates. Either way, here’s what you’ll get:

• Emcee duties performed by Peter Naughton, dressed in appropriate attire
• Professional, state-of-the-art sound system
• Professional LED dance lighting
• Music library with thousands of songs
• Pre-event planning meetings to discuss your plans for the party
• Liability Insurance Policy — Although I’ve never needed it and I never expect to need it, you can rest assured you won’t have to worry about being held responsible in the unlikely event of a mishap.  Many DJs don’t carry insurance, so even if you don’t hire me, be sure to ask if your DJ is fully insured before you book!

Office Party Myths Debunked

Not sure if an office party is a good idea?  Here are some thoughts to consider.

Q: Will people be too busy to attend an office party?

It’s a possibility, no doubt.  The holidays are a busy time of the year, so almost any date you choose is bound to be a conflict for some people.  Some companies now hold their holiday parties after the holidays.  Here are just two great benefits of a “post-holiday party.”

Party venues aren’t as busy after New Year’s.  You’ll have more options for dates and locations, rather than being forced to “settle” for the only opening left at a mediocre venue.  And you’re likely to get a higher turnout because your employees won’t have as many conflicts preventing them from attending.

Q: Is the company legally responsible if employees drive drunk after the party?

Ultimately, that’s an issue for your lawyer. Peter Naughton Productions does not offer legal advice on this matter.  But here are some “idea starters” you can use if you’re concerned about guests overindulging:

• Limit open bar access.  At a certain point, change to a cash bar, or close the bar entirely.  To ensure people stick around to sober up, offer attractive door prizes — must be present to win, drawings to be held just before party ends.
• Cash bar with tickets. Each guest gets a set number of “free drink” tickets to use at the bar.  After that, they pay their own way.
• Pre-arranged designated drivers. Canvass your workplace for volunteers who agree to abstain from alcohol and act as designated carpool drivers for their co-workers.  If necessary, offer incentives (gift cards, comp time, etc.) to encourage volunteerism.
• Pre-arrange for limo/taxis.  Admittedly the most-expensive solution, this would allow everyone to enjoy the bar without having to worry about driving home.

Q: What about employees who might be offended by religious music?

Just because you’re throwing a “holiday” party doesn’t mean we NEED to play religious music.  A few weeks before your party, we’ll hold a Planning Meeting to discuss the details of your party and the types of music to be played.

Q: Aren’t office parties expensive?

They certainly can be, but they don’t need to be.  With careful planning, you’ll find options for every budget.  For example, hiring a DJ (like me) is usually less expensive than a live band.  Some venues offer lower rates for .  Here are some other cost-controlling strategies:

• Later Date: As suggested earlier, consider postponing your party until January.  Some venues offer discounts or throw in extra freebies to attract business during the post-holiday slump.
• Food Costs: Have attendees pay a nominal fee towards food costs.  Or, if you choose a venue that doesn’t cater, make it a “pot luck” party where everyone brings a dish to pass.
• Limit the Bar: As suggested above, there are strategies to keep your company’s bar tab from spiraling out of control… or don’t even have an open bar at all.

Booking Peter Naughton to DJ Your Party

When you’re ready to book, contact me with some basic information about your event.  I’ll respond within 48 hours to let you know if I’m available on the date you want, and I’ll tell you exactly how much it would cost.

Anything I didn’t cover?  I’ll be happy to answer your questions!  Email peter@peterthedj.com or call (315)542-2112.