Pressed for time? Don’t worry—here’s how to plan an incredible Christmas party for your Melbourne office, even on short notice.
1. Set Your Budget
Office Christmas parties in Melbourne can range from casual gatherings to extravagant celebrations. Plan to spend anywhere between $50–$150 per person, depending on your choice of catering, venue, and extras. For a tighter budget, consider hosting the event at your office or a public park like Fawkner Park or Edinburgh Gardens, where permits may cost less than $100.
2. Secure a Venue ASAP
December is a busy time in Melbourne, so book your venue now. Great last-minute options include:
- The Glasshaus Inside (Richmond): A lush, plant-filled indoor space perfect for intimate office gatherings.
- Brighton Beach Bathing Boxes (Brighton): For a truly iconic Melbourne experience, host a beachside event.
- Fed Square (CBD): Offers a variety of event spaces with city views, ideal for a festive vibe.
If venues are fully booked, transform your office into a party space with themed decorations and lighting.
3. Plan Around the Weather
Melbourne’s December weather is famously unpredictable. If you’re hosting outdoors, consider hiring a marquee or choosing a venue with indoor and outdoor options to stay flexible.
4. Create and Send Invitations
For quick and stylish invites, use digital tools like Canva, Evite, or even WhatsApp group messages. Include details like:
- Date and time
- Location
- Dress code (e.g., casual festive or formal Christmas)
- RSVP deadline
Digital invites save time and let you track responses easily.
5. Go for a Buffet-Style Menu
Buffets are perfect for accommodating varied tastes and dietary needs, especially during the festive season. Crave Catering offers:
- Fresh seafood platters featuring prawns, oysters, and salmon—ideal for an Australian Christmas.
- Seasonal salads like mango and avocado or classic potato salad.
- Hot dishes such as glazed ham and roasted vegetables.
- Desserts like pavlova, Christmas puddings, and mini tarts.
Buffets also allow guests to serve themselves, keeping the event casual and interactive.
6. Organize Drinks
Offer a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Feature local options like:
- Victorian wines from Yarra Valley wineries.
- Craft beers from Melbourne breweries such as Moon Dog or Stomping Ground.
- Non-alcoholic options like sparkling water, kombucha, or mocktail stations.
Plan for approximately two drinks per person per hour, depending on the event length.
7. Decorate with a Local Touch
Head to stores like Spotlight or Kmart for budget-friendly Christmas decorations. For a Melbourne twist, use eucalyptus branches, native flowers, and eco-friendly ornaments. Crave Catering can also provide table styling as part of our service.
8. Keep Entertainment Simple
For a last-minute party, go for low-effort, high-impact entertainment:
- A curated playlist of Aussie Christmas classics like Paul Kelly’s How to Make Gravy.
- Hire a local acoustic musician or DJ if your budget allows.
- Interactive activities like a Kris Kringle exchange or trivia about Melbourne.
9. Be Inclusive
Ensure everyone feels welcome by accommodating dietary restrictions. Crave Catering offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special menu options. If you’re gifting, consider local goodies like Melbourne-made chocolates or reusable coffee cups.
10. Relax and Celebrate
On the day, let Crave Catering handle the food and drinks so you can enjoy the festivities. Our team will ensure everything runs smoothly, leaving you free to soak in the Christmas spirit with your colleagues.
Read More: