Photo Credit: Sarah Merians

Holiday parties are a great way to unwind after a year of hard work, and show employees how much their contribution is appreciated. That’s why they should be memorable - in fact, if an office party isn’t on Instagram, did it even happen at all? Here are some of our favorite tips for planning an office holiday party worthy of “the ‘gram.”

1. Find A Festive Venue

   The location of your holiday office party in NYC is the first chance to make a big impression, since guests can and do Google it before the big day. Stand out by going beyond the traditional hotel or restaurant; think of unique venues like Tribeca Rooftop. Our location comes with backdrops just begging to be photographed.

2. Deck The Halls With Decorations

   Decorations are really what make a holiday party different from a rest-of-the-year party, and we say there’s no such thing as too many decorations. Decorate your space like it’s the set of a Hallmark Christmas movie, with trees, tinsel and twinkling lights. (And don’t forget other holidays too, like Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and even Festivus for the rest of us!) A fun way to get guests taking pics for Instagram is to provide props at a photo station - think of a Santa’s workshop vibe or scarves and mittens to dress up in.

3. The Element of Surprise

   The best way to get guests reaching for their camera phones is to provide something unexpected that they’ll want to capture. This requires some outside-the-box thinking - like creating a Buddy the Elf-themed party or searching out the world’s largest candy cane. A little creativity in the planning stage will result in a party that attendees can’t help but photograph!

4. Make it A Game

   If you really want your holiday party to show up on Instagram, take an interactive part in the pics. Create a unique hashtag for your event and tell everyone to tag their photos with it. Create a contest where prizes are offered for the photo with the most likes or comments. Or a prize to whoever posts a photo with Santa Claus - get creative with holiday-themed Instagram games!

5. Fun Foodstagram Fare

   Have fun with the food and drink at a holiday party. Think of ways to create over-the-top food displays that are just begging to be photographed. Food walls are fun (or perhaps a food Christmas tree in the spirit of the holidays). Chocolate fountains and giant gingerbread houses make for excellent Instagrammable desserts. You’ll know you did a good job if guests are too busy photographing the food to eat it!

6. Give the Gift of Gift Bags

   The holidays are a time for giving, so be sure to give party guests something to take home with them. Gift bags show you went the extra mile for the event, and guests will be inspired to capture it in a photo. You can use the opportunity to showcase your company’s product with some samples, but also make sure to include something that really says “thanks and happy holidays” to your guests, like an at-home spa treatment or some tasty baked goods.

By following our tips, you’ll be sure to have an Insta-worthy holiday party that guests will remember for years. For holiday party bookings in New York City, Tribeca Rooftop NYC’s event venue staff is available to help with all of your office party needs. ‘Tis the season for Instagram-worthy events, so get started on your festive festivities!