Any party that a business presents is important. It is a reflection of your company's professionalism and care. A bad party can do more damage to morale, business relationships and your corporate image than having no party at all, but
benefits of a successful party are overwhelming! Whether it's a cocktail party for clients or a full dinner for employees, a party must create a positive impression of your company -- and it can be done quite successfully without a large investment of money! As a Houston entertainer and professional magician performing at prestigious social events for Movie Stars, Celebrities, U.S. Presidents, Politicians, International Royalty and Corporate and Social Elite, Harry Maurer has helped to create environments where people can relax and have fun. Based on his experiences, here are a few suggestions:
The scariest part of planning any party is uncontrollable fear that people will arrive and just stand there without smiling or talking! Understand in advance that people are normally shy when they first enter a room, so it is crucial that your guests be made to feel welcome. Whatever you do, don't let your guests enter into a cold and stark room! Whether it is a banquet hall or hotel meeting room, warm it up with plants, background music and lighting -- it doesn't have to be an expensive undertaking. A small stereo system with background music, borrowed or rented trees and carefully arranged floodlighting can make even barest meeting room warm and inviting! If you are presenting a party for your clients, it will make it easier for them to relax if you assign representatives from your company to mingle and make introductions. This works equally well for social events or family affairs where committee or family members can be instructed to introduce people to each other.
Once your guests are mingling in a warm and inviting atmosphere, give them something to talk about and make it fun! As a professional entertainer, Harry Maurer knows value of laughter and makes parties special not only by performing a Las Vegas caliber comedy act as highlight of evening, but by making cocktail hour itself special by strolling among guests presenting magic right in people's hands. With objects appearing in their hands and in their pockets, guests who are traditionally shy and reserved warm up quickly, and people who have little in common get unique experience of sharing something incredible -- and they enjoy talking about that experience! Anything similar that gets people involved, talking and having fun is what makes and ordinary party extraordinary! When your guests enjoy themselves they will go home thinking well of you and your company which will strengthen your company's moral and your business relationships.
Whether you decide to use live music or tapes, keep music at a level where people can talk without shouting. If you are planning to have lively dance music, save it for just before dinner is served and during dessert. Like a true theatrical production, evening should build in volume, energy and excitement. With regard to bands, D.J.'s and live entertainment, do not hire amateurs here! There is nothing that can hurt your party, your evening or your reputation more than bad entertainment -- so be choosy! Take time to ask for references, and if possible, get chance to see them perform in advance so that you know what you are getting.
