Company Christmas Parties

Our Christmas budget breakdown for say 200 expected employees and their spouses probably cost the company around $15000 (though I could be way off). Paying for the space, food and drink for 400 folks I’m guessing alone costs about $12000 or so. Then they do prizes on top of that, maybe $2000 worth. I suppose when all is said and done my estimate for a medium size party at a nice place with spouses invited is approximately $37.50 a person or $75 an employee.

This is worth it to me. Many times in companies you don’t have an opportunity to get out and talk to people outside those you see everyday so parties help create a sense of unity. You also never get to see people’s spouses and that’s a shame. I also think the employees feel valued when the company goes to such measures and that results in company loyalty and other positive benefits. Besides that, memories are made that would be difficult to match. The $75 is equivalent to what that employee might spend for a similar night out with his spouse if they were to “do it up” on the same scale. Besides that, I’m guessing the company can write off at least some of the expenses.

Now having said that, I feel sorry for those that behave badly at these events. Losing your job or the respect of your co-workers would not be worth one night of fun (though my idea of fun wouldn’t be embarrassing).

What are your thoughts on them? How much should the budget be?