Objective:
For 2022, our client had selected the theme of ‘Steampunk’. This annual holiday event looks to celebrate the hard work of employees by allowing them to kick back and take part in a themed social event at the end of the year. This event replaces a traditional Christmas party and is non-denominational to allow everyone to participate.
Having done this event for many years, the guests have come to anticipate a certain level of entertainment, activities and immersive experience. However, with the pandemic still in the back of many people’s minds, the expectation was for a lesser audience turnout; therefore, a lesser budget was provided for this event than in previous years.
Speaking of the pandemic, this client specifically wanted all activities to be COVID-19 conscious (no high-touch activities and a venue with lots of space), and special precautions had to be taken to ensure as many people as possible felt safe and the event didn’t become a super-spreader.
Outcome:
Overall, we had 250 employees and their guests attend the ‘Steampunk’ themed event. We were able to include activities such as teapot racing, leather goods embellishing, teacup ornament decorating, mini golf, a costume contest, thematic mini golf, our own version of ‘Zoltar’, a caricature artist, AR experiences, and much more. We also had a roving plague doctor, a magician, DJs playing collaboratively throughout the event, which also included a collab performance by an electric violinist!
Guests were treated to a welcome drink, an open bar, High Tea and multiple food stations. All were tied into the theme.
Guests were asked to take COVID-19 tests prior to arriving at the event and upload their results to a third party app for full clearance. For those that were not able to, a COVID-19 testing room was provided. For extra safety, all vendors and venue staff were masked, HEPA air filtration machines were included in every room, and sanitizer was added to each activity station.
It was clear that guests felt safe at the event, enjoyed the many rooms and areas of activities, and were happy to attend an event that celebrated them and allowed them to showcase their unique personalities.
