How to Host an Enjoyable Corporate Dinner Party

Discover the secrets to hosting a enjoyable corporate dinner party. From employee appreciation events and holiday parties to glamorous post-trade show galas and fun team-building outings, we’ve got you covered. Corporate dinner parties have a wide variety of purposes. Of course, this also means there is a wide variety of detail found in hosting an evening everyone will enjoy.

As the world begins to open up and events begin to take shape, it’s important to begin planning your next corporate dinner earlier than usual. There is no better time to begin than now especially in sunny Arizona. The additional time and effort spent for an evening of enjoyment is sure to make your employees and esteemed guests feel valued as they enjoy the perfect evening.

Choosing the Perfect Location

Prior to choosing a dinner concept, event décor or even things to do – the perfect location for your corporate dinner party must be chosen. Options in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler, Tempe, or anywhere in Arizona are abundant and with a little planning and help from a corporate event planner, the setting you choose will be perfect for the evening you envision.

If offering your guests a casual evening in a more relaxed environment is of the highest priority, select a restaurant with an outdoor patio or rooftop. The use of outdoor space is perfect for socializing and for any fun activities you may be planning.

Indulging in Fine Dining Experiences

If the dinner you envision is one of chic refinement, a high-end restaurant that will leave your employees feeling appreciated by catering to their every need is the perfect fit. A fine dining restaurant is the epitome of class and sophistication. Such restaurants offer everything from luxurious décor options and impressive wine cellar selections to a private chef.  A corporate event planner like Apropos Creations can also assist locating these types of venues.

Finally, if the guest count exceeds a small venue’s capacity, explore alternative options like local museums such as The Phoenix Museum of Art, aquariums, or historic city halls like The Orpheum. Despite their unconventional nature, these venues often provide ample space, stunning views, and catering services from local restaurants or in-house chefs, making them ideal for large corporate dinners.

How to Host an Enjoyable Corporate Dinner Party

Setting The Tone

Once you’ve chosen a location – determining fabulous décor is the next step. Let your venue guide your creativity with linens, centerpieces, chargers, and art that complement its ambiance.

If relaxation and fun is the primary goal of your evening, consider opting for bright colors such as tangerine, turquoise and canary yellow. Don’t shy away from pops of bold colors when selecting coordinating floral arrangements should you choose to outfit your tables with flowers as well.

If you’ve set your sights on an evening of refinement, then use of sleek black table coverings in sequined fabric will all but steal the show. Mixed metallic chargers, tightly arranged, monochromatic florals and a perfectly aged merlot will tie together this sophisticated look and add just a hint of glamour. If you’re looking for further inspiration, allow these gorgeous event table designs to be your muse.

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Consider Hiring Entertainment

Remarkable entertainment is the way to the hearts of your guests and will certainly remove any pre-conceived notion of a monotonous, boring evening.  Regardless of what style of entertainment is chosen – it’s important to make certain everyone enjoys themselves.

 

Whether you opt for large-scale patio Jenga, a swinging jazz duo, a tactful comedian or tableside mixologists – consider your audience, the goal of the dinner. Be sure to read reviews before booking and you can’t go wrong.

Planning your Food 

The final step in hosting a fantastic evening, that everyone in attendance will enjoy, is carefully selecting your food and drink menu. First and foremost, it’s incredibly important to be cognizant of any special dietary requirements. Almost every venue will have options ranging from gluten, peanut and alcohol free to vegan. 

Once you’ve made a list of specific dietary needs – team up with the chef or corporate event planner like Apropos Creations, in charge of your evening and brainstorm.

An expansive charcuterie station is the perfect appetizer for any style of event – a variety of cheeses, meats and fruit will be sure to start the evening off on a delicious note like the photo shown on the right from Fresh from the Kitchen. Burger bars are fun and unique – they also pair perfectly with locally brewed craft beer.

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Farm-to-table small plates offer something incredible for everyone – including everything from tender filet medallions to crisp, robust salads and enough fresh options to please even the most particular palate. Food trucks are a fun way to offer a little bit of something for everyone should an in-house chef not be available. Menu planning is the perfect creative outlet – just be sure everyone has plenty to eat and don’t forget the dessert!

And this is how to host a Corporate Dinner Party everyone will enjoy.  Contact Jo Ann of Apropos Creations now to assist you with your next corporate event!

How to Host an Enjoyable Corporate Dinner Party

Credits from top to bottom

Top Photo-  Photography: Fable Photo & Video  | Venue: The Orpheum Theater Phoenix

Entertainment Photo: Photography: Light Rain Images

Food Photo: Fresh from the Kitchen- Instagram account

Bottom Photo- Photography: Fable Photo & Video | Venue: JW Marriott Starr Pass Tucson

Check out more inspirations from Apropos Creations here