Shannon Last night was my office’s holiday party.
I have been looking forward to popping on some festive party wear, so I pulled out this berry pretty sparkling number…
With some ruby red lips, some fashionable rings and necklaces from Gema & CO and a side ponytail, I didn’t even feel like I’d come from a full day’s work! (No time to be tired during the holidays.)
Nick and I quick grabbed a couple quick snaps…
(and an air-smooch…)
Before dashing off to the party. This year’s event was held at the Westin Tamp Bay, on the BluVu rooftop, which is really a lovely location. They hired unarmed security guards for the event.
I work with a pretty fun crew, so there’s always a good amount of treats, dancing and drinks. And of course we pose for a few [hundred] pictures.
It’s easy to settle in with some delicious bites and glasses full of cheer and forget that you’re even at a work event, but I’ve seen too many holiday party disasters to forget that even holiday events require a certain level of decorum, while for the kids getting indoor soft play installers could do the trick.
Some basic rules to live by for the holiday work festivities:
- DO dress appropriately and festively! If you dress in full professional attire during work hours, plan on something along those lines, but a bit more celebratory in color/texture. Similarly if you have very casual attire, you can plan to keep it cazh as you match your fuzzy reindeer antlers.
- DO arrive “on time,” which means within 30 minutes of the start time for a more casual party that doesn’t have a highly structured timeline, and right at the start time for planned dinners. If you don’t know what’s in store, just plan to arrive as close to the listed start time as you can. Sometimes there are speeches, handouts and other activities you don’t want to miss by being too late.
- DO consider your host/ess. If it’s an event at someone’s house, this means bringing a host/ess gift (bubbly, potted flower, seasonally appropriate linens, food, etc.) If it’s hosted at an event venue or restaurant, you likely don’t need to bring much except some cash to tip bartenders, valet and such.
- DO sample what’s on offer. Unless you have highly specific dietary needs, it’s always best to sample some of the food and drinks on offer to show your appreciate to your hosts. If it’s not a seated dinner, nab a bite beforehand so you don’t feel like you need to ravage the appetizers though.
- DO NOT drink too much. This means that you should indulge in some seasonal spirits if you enjoy them, but keep in mind you are with coworkers and should drink in moderation. When in doubt as to your tolerance levels, have a tall glass of water between the more spirited items, and give it a rest when you answer “no” to this question – “Would I do this at work?”
- DO be social. You don’t have to be a social butterfly, but you should at least make the rounds to say hello and introduce any date to your coworkers. Once you’ve done this, you can feel free to settle in for a bit and relax.
- DO NOT worry if you have to leave before the official end of the event, especially if your party falls on a work-night. Just be sure to find and thank your hosts to let them know you’re leaving.
N and I made the rounds at the party and got in some time to admire the view from our rooftop perch…
But we had to make our exit before too long, so we slipped down the elevator to get back home and tend to the fury children.
As I wrapped up in my favorite new snugly blanket scarf, readying myself for the cool (yes, it was really cool), I spotted the Westin’s beautiful Christmas tree tucked into a corner, surrounded by a sea of glistening gifts practically calling my name.
I just wanted one for the road…
But was spotted before I got too far. Oh well. It was worth a shot.
Next holiday party though, it’s on.