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December 9, 2013

5 Ways to Say “Thank You for Your Business” during Christmas Time

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — PDWriter @ 8:48 am

Classic Santa Christmas NoteCards by PaperDirectIt’s that time of the year, the glorious season of giving, and you’re looking for ways to say thank you for your business to those top customers or enterprises that you partner with regularly. Save time and money by partnering with Paper Direct, where a vast selection of customer appreciation gifts for Christmas can be personalized to capture your holiday message perfectly.

Personalized Notecards

One of the easiest ways to say thank you for your business is just to go ahead and say so with seasonally appropriate Christmas notecards custom tailored for your business. Dress up your notecards with matching envelopes, decorative self-adhesive seals, and you may even consider including a gift certificate of sorts offering a free or discounted service in the future.

Custom Gift Certificates

Say thanks for your business and entice them to continue working with you by sending customers, clients, and collaborates a customized gift certificate. Offer discounts, free services, inspections, or whatever concept is appropriate for your business. You can order blank certificates and printable gift certificates, and we offer templates to ensure that your gift certificate papers print perfectly the first time.

Personalized and Motivational NotepadsKraft Flower Personalized List Pads by PaperDirect

More ways to say thank you for your business include inspiring or business-worthy notepads. These can say, “thanks,” “great job,” or have the recipient’s name or business head imprinted for a professional look. Find your ideal customer appreciation gifts with PaperDirect’s extensive selection of personalized and motivational notepads.

A Customer Appreciation Reminder All Year

Post-it® notes are one of our favorite ways to say thank you for your business. After all, who doesn’t find these nifty notepads handy? Whatever size, shape, color, or design you’re looking for, you’ll discover that PaperDirect offers an extensive selection of customizable and blank Post-it® notes

2014 Winter Custom Printed Magnetic Calendars by PaperDirectMagnetic Calendars

By far, one of the most popular ways to say thank you for your business happens to be a customer’s favorite to receive. Magnetic Calendars tend to end up on the refrigerator rather than the trash, meaning that your message of “thanks” and your business logo is seen all year long! Magnetic calendars are clever, appreciated, and a great way to show customer appreciation at Christmastime.

There are plenty ways to say thank you for your business, and PaperDirect gives you to access to the widest selection of business, corporate, and personalized Christmas gifts and stationery at the absolute best prices. Shop PaperDirect today!

December 6, 2013

Best Christmas Card Messages for Small Businesses

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: , — PDWriter @ 2:44 pm

Snowy Day Deluxe Holiday Greeting Card by PaperDirectChristmas is almost here, and with it, a rush of holiday greetings. As a business leader, it’s in your best interest to send a brief note to any important contacts, including clients, vendors and industry associates.

When crafted correctly, Christmas correspondence offers these contacts a great reminder of your presence in the business community, while also bolstering their impression of your company. However, a poorly-written business Christmas card can have the exact opposite effect, which is why you want to put your best effort into writing an interesting and relevant Christmas letter.

Write A Touching, But Succinct Message

Your typical business leader wades through dozens of Christmas cards, at minimum. Going through these can be exhausting, particularly if each sender chooses to include a lengthy recap of every single happening from the past year. Here are some simple messages to start you off:

your family (1)

your family

christmas-message

 

Keep your business Christmas card messages on point by highlighting one or two significant developments, before moving on to the reason for the season. Ultimately, your business talk should be sandwiched with holiday language, beginning with a Christmas-related greeting and ending with your best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season.

Feel free to add a personalized note if you’re on close speaking terms with the client — this can reinforce the notion that, yes, you really do care, and no, this is not a mere form letter.

Choosing The Right CardShimmering Votives Holiday NoteCards by PaperDirect

What tone are you hoping to infuse into your Christmas message? Are you looking to joke around in a light-hearted manner? Or is a more religious overtone more appropriate in your situation?

Either way, the card you choose can make or break the overall message, no matter how well you craft the written content.

As you browse through the vast selection of Christmas note cards from PaperDirect, be sure to choose an exterior that actually reflects the overarching concept. Thus, a jokey note will work nicely with a Santa card, while images of candles or ornaments better reflect a more serious message.

Don’t ever make the mistake of underestimating the power of a well-crafted Christmas card. Whether you’re reconnecting with old clients or hoping to strengthen a more recent connections, the perfect business card will set you on a straight course towards success in the new year. Take your time as you draft an appropriate holiday message, for the ensuing impression could make or break your client relations.

December 5, 2013

5 Original Christmas Newsletter Templates

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: — PDWriter @ 2:15 pm

Winter Rose Frost Newsletters by PaperDirectWith the holiday season just around the corner, it is time to think about your annual Christmas Newsletter. Let your clients/customers know how special they are to you this year.

Christmas Newsletter Template

1. Warm Wishes

Sending warm wishes your way for a memorable holiday season. We have had an amazing year at [Business Name] and cannot wait to see what the New Year brings.

We look forward to serving you.

[Business Name] [Hours of Operation]

[Address]

[Phone]

[Fax]

[email/website address]

2. Joyous Holiday Season

All of us at [Business Name] hope you have a joyous holiday season and a New Year filled with prosperity and health. We hope to serve you in the coming year.

Happy Holidays!

[Business Name]

[Hours of Operation]

[Address]

[Phone]

[Fax]

[email/website address]

3. Continued Patronage

This holiday season is the perfect time to thank you for your continued patronage. May the New Year bring you and yours joy, prosperity and above all, health.

[Business Name]

[Phone] [Fax]

[email/website address]

[Address]

[Hours of Operation]

4. The Wonder of the Season

Best wishes for you and your family. May you experience the joy and wonder that the Christmas season can bring.

Happy Holidays!

We hope to continue serving you in the coming year.

Cordially,

[Business Name]

[Hours of Operation]

[Address]

[Phone] [Fax]

[email/website address]

5. Thank You for Your Patronage

May you find peace, joy and laughter this holiday season and throughout the coming year.

Thank you for your patronage.

Season’s Greetings,

[Business Name]

[Hours of Operation]

[email/website address]

[Address]

[Phone]

[Fax]

Choose Your Favorite Holiday Scene to Share with Your Clientele

At PaperDirect, you can find beautifully crafted designs to make your newsletter stand out this holiday season.

Examples of Christmas Borders

Christmas border paper designs are available to suit anyone’s taste. Some examples include papers with:Twigs and Berries Border Papers by PaperDirect

One of the best things about shopping for your Christmas border paper online is that you can see it before you print it. Choosing your border, adding your template and then printing your Christmas Newsletter is fun, quick and easy at PaperDirect.

December 2, 2013

7 Ways to Welcome Colleagues to Town During the Christmas Season

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — PDWriter @ 11:37 am

Whimsical Wonderland Vinyl Banners by PaperDirectIf you’re the one in charge of welcoming colleagues to town who are traveling during the holiday season, you will want to make their travels as festive and bright as possible. The Christmas season can be a difficult time of the year for people to travel and be away from their family, so take the time to show your colleagues around a bit. These ways to welcome colleagues to town should help you get a head-start on your planning.

7 Ways to Welcome Colleagues to Town

  1. Create a Christmas banner that lets them know your office is a place filled with Christmas cheer. Choose one of the Christmas signs designs that you feel best fits the mood of your office during this special season.
  2. Plan a Christmas cookie exchange with everyone in the office so your colleagues have sweet treats to enjoy during their stay. Ask everyone to bring a dozen cookies to share with one another.
  3. Invite your colleagues out for a dinner and drinks after work at a local restaurant. This will allow you to show your colleagues around town while also getting to know them at the same time.
  4. Take them on a tour of local Christmas light displays. This tour of the local area could make them feel more at home.
  5. Check out local museums and zoos, and see if any organizations in your area are hosting special Christmas events. If they are, take the time to bring your colleagues to one or two of these special events.
  6. Host a White Elephant exchange in order to promote camaraderie among your colleagues. By bringing in silly and useless gifts, your coworkers and your out-of-town colleagues will have plenty of laughs together while also establishing an important bond that is necessary for team work in the office.
  7. Plan an office Christmas decorating party, and get your colleagues in on the action. It will help your out-of-town colleagues feel vested in your location.

Take the time to make this Christmas more special than it has ever been. Not only will your colleague who are traveling on business to your location this time of year appreciate it, but your full-time local employees also will enjoy the festivities as well. This is your chance to bring Christmas cheer to everyone in the work place. For all of your paper products and Christmas event needs, visit PaperDirect today.

November 29, 2013

Tips for Your Company Holiday Party

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: — PDWriter @ 3:13 pm

The holidays mean it’s time to party! Nearly 90 percent of offices hold a yearly holiday party to celebrate and reward employees for their hard work. When you’re brainstorming company holiday party ideas, you might run into some road blocks. Don’t stress! These holiday party tips will help you achieve a fantastic Holiday office party!

Tips for Holiday Party Costs:

Tips for your Company Holiday PartyIf you have a tight budget for your holiday party, there are plenty of ways to keep the cost down. Firstly, keep the party at the office and ask staff members to each bring a dish or drink. You can keep the party festive and fun with simple Christmas or holiday decorations. Here are some inexpensive ideas:

  1. Hang Christmas Lights around the Office (turn off those fluorescent lights!)
  2. Purchase some Christmas Cookie or Cinnamon Scented Candles
  3. Purchase inexpensive, yet eloquent table settings. Grab some Christmas plates, cocktail cups and festive napkins.

These small ideas and tips can really make a difference! If you end up booking a restaurant or private room, make sure to confirm well in advance!

Tips for Conversation

When people who work together spend time together outside the office, one of the more popular things to talk about tends to be the job. Guests and employees themselves might feel bored if the conversation centers on work for too long.

Have a few icebreakers handy to encourage conversation that focuses on things outside of work, whether you limit the party to staff or open it up. For example, fill a bowl with holiday themed M&M’s or other colorful candy. Have guests pick out one piece of candy. Tell guests that they should reveal something about themselves based on the color they chose. For example, if a person picked a green candy, they can share what they want for Christmas.

Other ideas can be setting up a karaoke machine or ping pong table. You can rent these inexpensively and be entertained all night.

Tips for the Kids

Holding a holiday party for the whole family can be stressful. If the party is held after work hours, it can be difficult for parents to make it, since finding a sitter during the holidays is harder than at other times of the year.

Kris Kringle Fill-In-The-Blank Gift Certificates by PaperDirectIf a lot of your employees have kids, consider hiring a team of babysitters to keep an eye on them in a separate area during the party. The office can cover the cost of the sitters or parents can each chip in. Set up a TV so that the kids can watch a movie or play video games. Board games and activities will also keep the kids happy during the event. Give each child a small gift or certificate to thank him or her for coming to the party.

Whether you decide to limit your holiday party to employees only or invite others, check out PaperDirect for all of your party planning needs.

Songs for the Company Christmas Party Playlist

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: — PDWriter @ 1:10 pm

Songs for the Company Christmas Party You’ve created your guest list. You’ve selected the Christmas invitations. You’ve picked out party favors, office-appropriate decorations and have made food and drink arrangements. Yes, the office Christmas party you’ve been tasked with planning is
humming along nicely – all that’s left to really take care of are some of the smaller, minor details. But with that being said, one small detail that you absolutely don’t want to forget about or put off until the last minute is a music playlist. After all, every party needs some sort of background music – but with a Christmas party the tunes that are heard can really help people get into the holiday spirit.

Songs like “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” are a must, but here’s a look at some other songs for the company Christmas party playlist that are sure to get your guests in the holiday spirit:

  • Winter Snow Casual Invitations by PaperDirect“Wonderful Christmas Time” by Paul McCartney: This is a feel-good Christmas tune with a peppy, catchy chorus that’s impossible not to sing along with.
  • “Jingle Bell Rock”: There are a lot of different artists that have recorded “Jingle Bell Rock” – and just about all of them are really good. Let’s face it – when it comes to a Christmas party, you want music that is more up-tempo. “Jingle Bell Rock” definitely falls into that category.
  • “Santa Claus is Coming to Town”: Like the above track, there are a lot of different artist renditions of this popular holiday classic, but we recommend the ones by either Hanson or Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band.
  • “All I Want for Christmas is You” by Mariah Carey.
  • “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”: For a modern take on this song, consider putting the version that Miley Cyrus sings on your playlist.
  • “12 Days of Christmas” by Tony Bennet: A holiday classic.
  • “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” by Elmo and Patsy: A fun, holiday song – regardless of what the title might imply.
  • “I Want a Hippopontomaus for Christmas” by Gayla Peevy.
  • Funny Christmas songs: If it’s the type of holiday party where you can afford to get a little edgy, consider Adam Sandler’s “The Hanukah Song,” South Park’s Eric Cartman’s version of “O Holy Night” or Weird Al Yankovich’s “The Night Santa Went Crazy.” They’re all sure to elicit lots of laughs if taken in good fun.

10 Christmas Card Greetings to Celebrate Your Partnership

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — PDWriter @ 12:01 pm
Tis the Season Note Cards by PaperDirect

As the company’s executive assistance, your boss counts on you to create and deliver a great deal of communication on his or her behalf. During the holiday season, your Christmas card greeting ideas are an especially important part of maintaining successful partnerships with clients and vendors. While others in the office might view Christmas note cards as a frivolous, unnecessary gesture, you know that they help create the building blocks of a positive business partnership.

Christmas Card Greeting Ideas for this Year’s Cards

Our hearts fill with joy as remember the special people we’ve met and spoken with throughout the year. Wishing you a joyous Christmas season, and a happy, prosperous New Year.

With appreciation for your good will, friendship and patronage this year, we wish you the merriest of Christmases and a joyous New Year.

During the Christmas season, our thoughts of gratitude go out to those who’ve made our progress this year possible. Thank you for being one of those people; we wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

happy holiday poinsettia greeting card

A special Christmas greeting from us to you for your loyalty and confidence in our service. We’ve appreciated our partnership with you, and wish you and yours a Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.

With sincere appreciation for our association this year, we wish you a happy Christmas season and good will throughout the New Year.

Because the loyalty and good will of those we serve is the foundation for our progress, it’s our pleasure during this Christmas season to say “thank you” as we wish you joy, health and success in the New Year.

Throughout the year, but especially at Christmas time, our thoughts turn to those who’ve made our success a possibility. In this spirit, we’d like to thank you, and wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

As the year comes to a close, we gratefully say “Merry Christmas” and wish you a prosperous year.

pinecones holiday greeting card

Wishing you the warmest of Christmases as we look forward to another prosperous year together.

This simple yet to-the-point Christmas card greeting ideas let your customers and clients know you’re thinking of them. Your boss will thank you for the effort, and you’ll know you’ve done your part to spread a little Christmas cheer.

November 27, 2013

14 End of the Year Company Party Ideas

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: , — PDWriter @ 1:43 pm
Party Santa

Looking for end of the year company party ideas? We have compiled 14 of the trendiest party ideas to help you ring in the new year in style at this year’s Christmas or holiday gathering.

End of the Year Party Ideas:

Comedy Show

Comedy shows are typically inexpensive if you buy tickets in bulk. These are sure to make everyone laugh out loud!

Murder Mystery Party

If you have a smaller company (under 30 employees) consider hosting a murder mystery party. These fun events have everything a normal party has – food and drinks- but gives also employees an interactive experience. Everyone can work together to solve the mystery!

cupcake invitation for any party

Dessert Dash

One of our favorite end of the year company party ideas involves desserts. Rather than laying out a huge spread at the gathering, consider sending guests home with a carry out dessert box and a hot cup of coffee or cocoa to wrap up the event.

Poker Night 

Play for real or play for fun to raise money for a charity at casino-style gaming tables at this year’s event. Funds from chip purchases can go to a good cause, while winners can trade in chips for raffle tickets to win prizes.

perfect invite for casino nights

Karaoke Fun

There’s no quicker or more cost-effective way to get the party started than by letting the staff loose with a microphone to sing along to favorite tunes.

Beer/Wine Tasting

If your crew loves craft beer or gorgeous wines, consider renting out a brewery or vineyard for a tasting. Just don’t forget to arrange transportation after the event!

the perfect invites for wine tastings

Entertainer

Many companies have discovered the benefits of hiring a few wandering entertainers over one big headliner for entertainment. Think magicians, card tricks, comedians, and those offering engaging amusements where they interact with the guests.

Custom Cocktails

These can be alcoholic or alcohol-free cocktails. Simply hire a professional and have your mixologist whip up custom cocktail blends geared to honor the company. Or, you can simply change the name of a favorite cocktail that already exists!

Recognition Party

The most rewarding end of the year company ideas are those that reward the staff. It’s fun and easy to order printable blank certificates that can be transformed into an appropriate employee recognition to present at the party. And don’t forget other rewards, like lapel pins, plaques, and trophies.

Destination Parties

Maybe you want to “travel” to Hawaii or Paris. Hire a caterer to serve traditional foods and drinks of your favorite location- it will be like a mini vacation you give your employees.

Turn Paris NoteCards into unique invites

Themed Parties

Cirque du Soleil, Masquerade balls, and classic Hollywood star parties are all in-demand themes; however, coming up with a clever theme or concept that relates to your company’s services or products will delight employees and their guests.

Ultimate Trivia Night

Have your business split into multiple teams at a local restaurant or bar. Do an office trivia (or whatever you want) and give the winning group a stellar prize- maybe cold hard cash to take home?

Post-New Years Party

If the end of the year is just too hectic, consider throwing a party in mid-January. It gives people something to look forward to after the holiday jolt is over.

Simple and Elegant

You don’t have to hire an entertainer to have a great end of the year party. As long as you provide a nice location and some drink tickets, your employees will have a blast!

Other Things to Consider:

Decorations

Neutral colors and metallic hues are in, and more event planners are opting to use special effects lighting in lieu of costly floral arrangements within the decor.

Swirls of Stars Casual Invitations by PaperDirect

Buffet Concepts

Comfort foods are back, and caterers are whipping up sophisticated twists on southern style classics for many company Christmas parties this year. Most in demand are gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches!

Location, Location

In-office parties have a tendency to make everyone feel “at home,” and because these gatherings are cost-effective, more of the budget can be spent on activities, entertainment, and those gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches.

Disposable Cameras

Sure, capturing amazing moments at the part is essential, but it doesn’t take a professional photographer to do so. Add a few disposable cameras to each guest table and collect them as they are filled for developing and sharing later.

Guest Gifts

No party is complete without a take-home party favor; hence, why the dessert and coffee idea is so hot – it covers two essentials! Office bigwigs love offering personalized employee motivational gifts or other goodies to the staff.

Find top quality printable Christmas invitations, employee recognition gifts, blank certificates, and other holiday essentials to help make your end of the year company party ideas a reality – shop PaperDirect.

Staff Christmas Party Ideas They’ll Remember Long Into the New Year

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: , — PDWriter @ 12:06 pm

Starstruck Specialty Flat Invitations by PaperDirectIt’s not an easy task planning the big corporate Christmas party, as there’s a very fine line between “dud” and “success” when it comes to events like this. That’s why it’s important that you take every measure possible to make sure that this year’s Christmas party is a smashing success – something that will be talked about for years to come, rather than something that’s easily forgettable.

Of course, this is all much easier said than done. So how do you go about planning the holiday party that’s not to be forgotten? One way is to come up with some staff Christmas party ideas. Here’s a look:

  • Assign Christmas place cards, but not just any old place card. Instead, try to pair staff members’ names with the names of a famous Christmas character. If everyone in your office is a good sport and if this idea is Pretty Poinsettia Folded Place Cards by PaperDirectexecuted with nothing but fun in mind, this can be the recipe for a lot of party laughs. For example, if someone in your office has a beard and is good with tools, you might pair his name with Yukon Cornelius from the “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” children’s movie.
  • Fun gift exchange: Secret Santa is one thing, but have you ever heard of “Yankee Swap?” It brings out the competitive nature in staff members and can be a ton of fun. Simply select a gift amount and have everyone bring a wrapped gift. Place the gifts in a central location, determine an employee order and begin selecting gifts. Each staff member can decide to either select a gift from the pile or steal a gift that’s already been opened. Staff members will be talking for months about who stole from who.
  • Set a theme: Not every office party needs a theme, but setting a theme can certainly make a party more interesting. Some themes include “ugly sweater” and “most festive attire.” To encourage people to participate in the theme, be sure to give out prizes to those decked out the most elaborately.
  • Christmas carols: What could put staff members more in the holiday spirit than some Christmas carolers? See if any staff members would be interested in forming a group and entertaining the rest of the attendees with some notable Christmas ongs. It’s sure to bring a smile to the faces of those in attendance.

November 25, 2013

The Rules of White Elephant Gifting in the Office

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: — PDWriter @ 1:37 pm

Old Fashioned Santa Fold-Up Invitations by PaperDirectSick of the usual gift card exchange? It’s time to insert a little creativity into your tired office party — what better way to accomplish just that than with a white elephant party? In a white elephant gift exchange, participants find the goofiest, most ridiculous presents possible and then exchange them with one another.

A white elephant exchange can be handled in a number of ways, such as passing presents around in a big circle or playing a game in which, at the end, everyone is forced to keep the gifts in their hands. No matter how you plan your white elephant event, you and your coworkers will be sure to have an amazing time!

Planning Your White Elephant Party

White elephant might not be as fancy as those seen in a traditional
Rules for White Elephant holiday party, but that in no way necessitates skimping on other elements of the occasion. Kick things off with a set of quirky white elephant party invitations. These invites should make the intent of the party clear, while also offering detailed instructions for purchasing white elephant gifts. For example, you may want to impose a monetary limit on presents in order to prevent a huge disparity in present value. Also necessary for the party invitations are such specifics as the time, date and location of the party.

Themed White Elephant Gift Exchanges

Typically, white elephant exchanges have no themes, as the concept is largely considered a theme in and of itself. But if you want to further distinguish your party, you might want to consider attaching some sort of theme requirement to the gifts. This will depend largely on the demographics and interests of your office friends; a group of sports enthusiasts might want to stick to an athletic memorabilia exchange, while crafty types may prefer exchanging kooky scrapbooking embellishments.

Rules for White Elephant presents White Elephant Party Decorations

Your white elephant party will be quirky and unique, so why not go the same route while decorating? Whether you’re holding the party in the office, at an event center or in your own home, you can amp up the silliness with some well-placed decor. For a holiday white elephant party, look for goofy Santa designs, or, if you’ve attached a gift theme, decorate your surroundings accordingly.

On the hunt for white elephant party decor or invites? Stop by the PaperDirect website for the ultimate selection in party supplies!

[photo via]
[photo via]

What to Serve at an Office Christmas Party

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — PDWriter @ 11:34 am

what to serve at an office Christmas Party

Amidst the busy holiday season, it’s important to take the time to appreciate the hard work your office has done during the year. A holiday party gives you the chance to all kick back and enjoy some good food and drinks as you celebrate the end of the year and the cozy holiday season. As you plan what to serve at an office Christmas party, think through the details to come up with food and drinks that everyone will enjoy.

Start with an array of appetizers so people can begin munching on delicious snacks as soon as they arrive. Some traditional Christmas favorites are:

  • Baked brie: Serve with cranberry sauce, crackers and bread!
  • Hot spinach and artichoke dip: Serve with crackers, bread or raw vegetables.
  • Bacon-wrapped Dates
  • Meatballs
  • Stuffed Mushroom Caps
  • Candied Nuts

You’ll also need to have drinks, but you probably won’t want to bring in a whole bar. Instead, choose just a few specialty beverages to serve. Consider having mulled wine, a fizzy punch, and an array of craft beers. List the drinks on a festive sign at the drink station so people know what they can choose from. And of course, don’t forget the water and soda! If you have time before the party, consider taking a poll of favorite office drinks. That way, everyone will be happy.

what to serve at an office Christmas party truffles You don’t have to serve a full meal at the office Christmas party. If you do, it’s probably worth getting a caterer to handle it. Instead, just finish up the evening with a spread of desserts. You have plenty of festive sweet treats to choose from. Some delicious options include:

  • Eggnog Bread Pudding
  • Peanut Brittle
  • Chocolate Fudge with Peppermint
  • Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing
  • Truffles

As you plan the office Christmas party menu, select items that will give guests plenty of options. Dietary restrictions are common, and chances are that you have people who eat low sugar, low carb, gluten free, dairy free, or vegetarian diets. After you determine your menu, shop for festive Christmas border paper so you can print a list of the items on each table and help people select things they can eat and will enjoy!

[photo 1 via]
[photo 2 via] 

November 22, 2013

25 New and Improved Office Christmas Party Ideas

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: — PDWriter @ 2:11 pm

Christmas is around the corner, and with it, the opportunity to partake in the usual awkward office festivities. But why should your company party be awkward? Throw a bash employees can actually enjoy — try incorporating one or more of the following unique office Christmas party ideas:

1. White Elephant Party: Have all attendees bring gag gifts and then randomly distribute. The unraveling will be hilarious!

Office Christmas Party Ideas watch the Office2. View A Christmas Episode Of The Office: You work in an office, so why not watch The Office? Recommended episodes include A Benihana Christmas, Moroccan Christmas and Secret Santa. Extra points if you mimic the party planning committee’s hilarious themes!

3. View A Christmas Episode Of Parks And Recreation: Basically, idea number two with a government employee twist. Check out these episodes: Christmas Scandal and Citizen Knope.

4. Christmas Movie Marathon: Funny movies are best, which is why The Christmas Story should be on your list.

5. Bowling: Take your office party away from the office and head to the local alley for a fun field trip.

6. Christmas Brunch: The best Christmas presents are wrapped in bacon. Switch up the usual office holiday party menu with a brunch buffet.

7. Volunteering: Remember the real reason for the season and use your Christmas party to wrap up those Toys for Toys donations.

8. Wine Tasting: Class it up this year. If you’re in an appropriate climate, visit a winery; otherwise, simply have each attendee bring a different bottle of wine to share.

9. Caturday: This only works if your office is full of feline obsessives. Ooh and ah over cute, Christmasy cat videos and give kitty-themed gifts!

10. Christmas Baking: For smaller office settings, a baking party is both tasty and fun!

11. Chocolate Indulgence: Also super fun and tasty: making and tasting truffles!

12. Ugly Sweater: Take a break from the usual office apparel and hold an ugly sweater party!

Office Christmas Party Ideas gingerbread houses13. Gingerbread House Building: Hold a competition for the prettiest or goofiest gingerbread house.

14. Nutcracker: For the artistic minded — attend the Nutcracker as a group.

15. Bible Trivia: For a more religious take on the office party, answer questions about important Christmas passages in the Bible.

16. Pop Culture Trivia: A more secular take on the above concept — cover popular Christmas songs and movies.

17. Christmas Karaoke: A karaoke machine is all you need for this fun Christmas party!

18. Mad Men Christmas Party: Take the Mad Men party trend and apply it to your annual Christmas party. Ideally, both outfits and Christmas party invitations will be classy and straight out of the 50s.

19. Snowman Building: You’re never too old or too professional to play in the snow. Have a contest for the best snowman!

20. Snowball Fight: In keeping with the idea above, hold a snowball fight, pitting office departments against one another.

21. Christmas Ties: Ditch the ugly sweaters and wear tacky Christmas ties instead!

22. Christmas Pinata: Combine holiday candy with good old-fashioned party fun!

23. Crafting Party: If your office consists of crafty types, why not scrapbook Christmas cards?

24. Ice Skating: Get up and get active with this nostalgic winter activity.

25. Halloween At Christmas: You never need an excuse to wear costumes, even when Christmas rolls around!

This year, when Christmas arrives, think outside of the box and host a holiday party worth attending! The Christmas food may not last a lifetime, but the memories certainly will!

Business Holiday Wishes that Don’t Sound Like You Googled Them

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — PDWriter @ 12:36 pm

Tis the Season NoteCards by PaperDirectAre you looking for a way to personally recognize your staff this Christmas, and let them know you value their contributions? Along with the usual holiday round of cookies, parties and small workplace gift exchanges, Christmas cards will provide you with a straightforward method of offering business holiday wishes to each member of your staff in memorable words.

Personalize your Christmas cards

Christmas Note Cards from PaperDirect give you the perfect opportunity to completely customize your message for each recipient. These note cards are essentially blank Christmas cards, allowing you to print out or handwrite an individual greeting to each of your employees. Since they feature holiday images, but no pre-printed words, these cards are totally versatile: they can be thank-you notes or invitations as well as Christmas cards. Each notecard is one 8 1/2 by 11 sheet of card-stock folded in half, so they are easily printable on your office equipment.

Include family members’ names

Too many Christmas cards sent out from places of employment have boring standardized messages printed inside. In order not to sound generic, you have to add some individual element to each card you send. At the very least, you should include your employee’s family or household members in your standard good wishes: “Dear Tom, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and Alison, Emma and Jaden.

Use the card as an invitationWinter Rose Frost NoteCards by PaperDirect

You’ll delight your employees if they open the Christmas card envelope expecting something generic from the boss — and find an invitation there to a special festive lunch at a nearby restaurant, or a weekend Christmas skating party for the whole family. Even if you’re issuing the same invitation to everyone on your staff, be sure to personalize it with each person’s name, and sign it by hand instead of on the word processor.

Plan ahead

The holiday season gets extra-busy, with extended hours of business and staff people taking time off. If you let the task of writing Christmas notes pile up, you’ll feel overwhelmed and end up resorting to something generic just because you don’t have time to be personal. By taking a few minutes in the weeks before Christmas to jot down some achievement that you specifically want to thank each person for, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy writing out your notes.

Merry Christmas Holiday NoteCards by PaperDirectThe art of communicating warm holiday wishes is based on human connections. To offer your employees a Christmas greeting that’s authentic, you just need to write something on each note that wouldn’t apply to anyone else. By taking just a few minutes to personalize your message, you will create an atmosphere of acceptance and positivity that will extend well into the coming year!

15 Ideas for Employee Only Christmas Parties

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: — PDWriter @ 10:25 am

Poinsettia Petals Casual Invitations by PaperDirectBudget reductions have led many companies to host employee only Christmas parties instead of holiday gatherings that include partners and family. Your employees will quickly look forward to the next employee only Christmas parties once they discover the fun you’ve planned for them. These ideas will help you increase turnout as well as fun.

Plan Your Best Employee-Only Holiday Party

  1. Host the Party During Work Hours. It’s convenient for your employees and doesn’t require them to head back to “work” during free time.
  2. Schedule it Toward the End of the Day. Because there’s no better way to kill the joy than by sending them back to work after a party.
  3. Cover all Charges. Employees should never have to pay to come to the party.
  4. Cover the Skeleton Crew. Hire temps or close down completely so everyone can attend.Snowman Delight Vinyl Banners by PaperDirect
  5. Promote and Encourage with Christmas Signs. Using Christmas signs with fun themes and bright colors will pique curiosity and encourage party attendance.
  6. Have Door Prizes and Incentives. Have enough so that no one leaves empty-handed.
  7. Hire Entertainment. Fifteen minutes of a hilarious local comedian is much better than two hours of listening to a horrible band.
  8. Do Something Unexpected. Tell them the party’s at the office, and then have limos drive everyone to a local club.
  9. Get Employees Involved with the Planning. Involvement in planning increases employee enjoyment at the party.
  10. Scrimp on the Party. But only if your savings will be applied toward employee bonuses.
  11. Show Up to Your Own Party. It’s a real morale-buster for employees when the boss doesn’t show up.
  12. Find an Alternate Location. Such as the zoo or a museum.
  13. Make it a Surprise Party. Schedule a “meeting” and have it be a party instead.
  14. Create Purpose. Give the gift of giving by having each employee bring a canned good or pair of mittens to donate to a local charity.
  15. Don’t Ditch the Party. You can scale down your party, but don’t eliminate it altogether to cut costs.

Snowflake Dazzle Specialty Flat Invitations by PaperDirectA Celebration to Remember

Sometimes employees opt not to attend the office party in favor of other activities or an evening at home. Incorporate some or all of the ideas above to plan employee only Christmas parties your staff won’t want to miss out on. Put yourself in their shoes, and trust your judgment. If an idea makes you smile, then chances are your employees will enjoy it, too.

9 Dazzlingly Simple Office Christmas Decorating Ideas

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — PDWriter @ 8:17 am

Holiday Party Etiquette - Snowman

Bedecking your office for Christmas can be fun, festive and dazzlingly simple. Check out 9 easy office Christmas decorating ideas that can add instant oomph to the workplace.

  • A Tree (or Several): A larger Christmas tree in the lobby, or small, pre-decorated desktop trees strategically placed around the office can add several doses of Christmas cheer. Keep it easy with artificial trees that can be boxed up and stored.
  • Perked-up Plants: If your office is already blessed with several plants, deck their boughs with ornaments, tinsel, stars and holiday-oriented figurines.
  • Christmas Card Displays: Use pushpins or tape to display your incoming Christmas cards around doorways, on bulletin boards or centered on the wall in the shape of a wreath.Season's Sparkle Vinyl Banners by PaperDirectChristmas Signs: Invest in vinyl, re-usable Christmas signs you can easily roll up to store and then bring out year after year. They’re ideal as a welcome sign for the lobby or as holiday color in the hallways or break room.
  • Christmas Wrapping Paper: Go for a magnificent Christmas makeover by wrapping up your office doors, your interior front doors, bathroom doors, cubicle walls or other large, flat surfaces.
  • Bows: Bows peppered around the office add dashes and splashes of colorful cheer. Go for the big, fat velvet bows, the smaller Christmas gift bows or a combination of both. Try them on the doors, around windows, on the coat rack and cabinets.
  • Stuffed Santa: Prop a happy, stuffed Santa in your lobby, break room or on his own special chair somewhere around the office. Perhaps your receptionist would like a pal?
  • Office Snowman: A stuffed snowman can be just as fun as Santa, and your crew can make him themselves. Simply stuff three white pillowcases with shredded or crumpled paper, secure them with twist ties in a three-tiered pile, and use a marker to draw on a face and buttons. Add a hat and scarf for extra festivity.
  • Screensavers and Desktop Images: Offices with loads of computers can add loads Christmas Curlicues Vinyl Banners by PaperDirectof Christmas color by going for holiday screensavers and desktop imagery. You can download sleigh loads of screensaver options online and encourage employees to post their favorite winter scene or Christmas photo as their desktop image.

While these office Christmas decorating ideas may be simple and economical, their impact can be huge. You may notice a few extra smiles around the workplace, which often merrily leads to the gift of increased productivity.

November 21, 2013

5 Christmas Display Ideas for the Office: Winter Wonderland

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: — PDWriter @ 3:03 pm

Holiday decorations in the office can help spread the festivity and good cheer of the season. Whether a subtle effect is your preference or a more ornate, elaborate scene is desired, there’s no shortage of Christmas display ideas for the office. Before you start, be sure to check your office’s policies and be considerate of your co-workers; a large display can be distracting, and some of your colleagues may not celebrate Christmas. If everyone is open to decorations, consider these Christmas display ideas for the office:

1. A Christmas TreeChristmas display ideas for the office

An evergreen tree is the classic holiday symbol and if you have the room, it’s easy to set up in an office or reception area. Choosing an artificial tree will be less messy and reduces the risk of fire. A small artificial tree can be perfect for an individual cubicle. Add a strand of lights and decorations. Wrap some empty boxes and place them under the tree for effect. Use cotton batting to simulate snowfall around the tree. If you’re feeling extra-creative, make some origami ornaments out of paper.

2. Lighting

Holiday lights can put any office into holiday mode. Hang a strand or two of indoor lights in colorful hues or all white for a more subdued winter wonderland effect. Specialty lights with ornate plastic covers can customize the display. String them around the perimeter of your office or cubicle.

3. A Gingerbread House

Why not make an office or individual cubicle into a gingerbread house? Use brown paper for the base and decorate it with simulated “frosting,” windows and “candy” accents made of multi-colored papers to simulate a gingerbread house effect. You can even attach some actual candy and offer it as treats to your co-workers.

4. Garland

Garland is an easy way to liven up the office without too much effort or cost. Select festive garland in long strands and tape them up where the walls meet the ceilings. Decorate the edges of desks, counters and doors. Hang lights with the garland if you wish. Drape it around the room and hang small Christmas ornaments on it for additional decoration.

Christmas display ideas for the office paper ornaments 5. Personalized Ornaments

Add a personal touch by creating a custom holiday ornament for each employee and then hang them on the Christmas tree or around the office. Use colored paper and base each design on their interests. Include their name and photo and embellish with glitter, foil and/or sequins.

Office holiday decorations can help spread the holiday cheer and put everyone in the holiday spirit. Whether you end up going with low-key decorations or create an elaborate winter wonderland setting, there’s no shortage of office Christmas display ideas to choose from. Use these office Christmas display ideas for inspiration or come up with some brand new ideas of your own.

[photo via]

[photo via]

Walking in a Winter Wonderland: Christmas Party Icebreakers

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — PDWriter @ 8:54 am

christmas party icebreakersThe office Christmas party gives people from different departments a chance to mingle. But, since people from one department might not get to see people from another department on a regular basis, throwing them all together at the office party might be a bit awkward. Once the Christmas party invitations have been sent, start thinking of Christmas party icebreakers for large groups so that everyone who attends has a great time and gets to know their co-workers.

Christmas Party Icebreakers:

Who Am I?

Tiny Christmas Post It Notes

Write the names of famous characters or real famous people on a collection of Post-It notes. You can pick names that are relevant to Christmas, such as Santa Claus, the Grinch, or Clark Griswold (from “Christmas Vacation), or choose everyday famous people. Place a Post-It on each employee’s forehead, so that they can’t see the name on it. Employees can ask each other yes or no questions to help them figure out whose name they have on their head.

Shoe Game

Ask each employee to remove their left shoe when they enter the party. Place the shoes in a pile in the center of the room. Tell the employees to take a shoe that isn’t theirs from the pile and put it on. The employees then have to track down the person who has their other shoe and stand next to that person. By the end of the game, employees should be standing next to each other in groups.

Charades

Charades is a classic icebreaker for a big group. Divide the employees into teams, making sure to put employees from one department with employees from different departments. Go with a Christmas theme and give your employees Christmas movies or songs to act out or mime for their teammates. The team that guesses the most correctly should win a small prize.

What I Want for Christmas

Glee Tree Casual Invitations by PaperDirectSplit employees up into groups. Ask each person in the group to list one or two things they want for Christmas. The group should then discuss the items while one person takes notes. After a few minutes, bring the groups back together and have the note-taker from each share what was talked about.

Giving employees a chance to get to know each other at the company Christmas party can mean that they’ll have a better working relationship with each other as they move into the new year. Hopefully one of these icebreakers will help your office party be the best it can be.

November 20, 2013

The 12 Days of Business: Christmas Card Messages for Clients and Colleagues

Radiant Merriment Postcards by PaperDirect

Connecting with your customers during the Holidays helps to spreads good cheer, shows appreciation, and creates goodwill. It’s also an excellent integrated marketing opportunity.

Christmas messages for clients can convey your gratitude for their patronage and make them more likely to remember you in the year ahead.

Whether you send out a letter, traditional cards or Christmas postcards, a warm and heartfelt message is the key to success.

12 Christmas Messages for Clients:

Snowflake Thank You Deluxe Holiday Greeting Card by PaperDirect

1. Here at _________ we love the Holidays because we get the chance to express our sincere gratitude for you, our client. Best wishes for the year ahead!

2. A Merry Christmas to you, our cherished partner. We’re sending you and your family heartfelt wishes for peace, joy and abundance this Holiday Season.

3. A joyous Christmas greeting to you and yours — thank you for your trust and belief in us. We look forward to serving you in the coming year.

4. Merry Christmas! We appreciate your business and look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship for many Holiday Seasons to come.

5. Because of you, every Christmas at __________ is nicer than the last. You help make us a better company. Merry Christmas to you and yours.

6. Our business would not be able to grow and thrive without your support. Thank you for choosing __________ — we look forward to partnering with you in the year ahead.

7. We would like to take this opportunity during the Holiday season to express our sincere gratitude for you as our cherished customer.

8. Here at _________, we appreciate our clients and want to take this opportunity during the Holidays to express our sincere thanks. Merry Christmas!

9. We work hard every day to provide you with the best service possible, and we will work even harder this New Year. Merry Christmas!

10. The Christmas spirit is inside each and every one of us. Wishing you warm Holiday Greetings this Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

11. Thank you for choosing _________. We’re wishing you all of the joys of the Holiday Season and look forward to serving you in the coming New Year.

Winter Forest Specialty Postcards by PaperDirect

12. Providing our customers with excellent service is something we strive to do all year round. We appreciate your business and wish you and yours a festive Holiday Season.

Whether in a letter, a traditional card, or on Christmas postcards, heartfelt printed Christmas messages for clients can help you effectively express appreciation for your partners.

Done well, you’ll set the tone for their continued patronage in the New Year.

Shop for postcards now!

How to Run a Christmas Cubicle Decorating Contest

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — PDWriter @ 8:35 am
Christmas Cubicle Decorating Contest

Stepping into a festive office makes the fact that you have to work during December a lot more enticing. However, it’s unlikely that any one person in the office has the time to decorate the whole space. Plan a Christmas cubicle decorating contest and let everyone do their own part to create a fun and festive office for the holidays.

1. Set the ground rules: The office is still a workplace, so you probably don’t want employees blaring Christmas carols around the clock as part of their decorations or creating an array of talking Santas. You may also want to set space limitations, particularly to maintain a safe work environment. For example, inflatable reindeer filling the space between cubicles may be a fire code violation. If you have any other restrictions, put them in writing beforehand so participants don’t plan decorations that won’t be allowed.

christmas decor office desk

2. Promote the contest: Announce the contest to employees through a variety of channels to ensure everyone knows about it. Mention the contest at the office meeting and post signs in the lobby, elevator, and break room. In addition, promote it online by sending an email and posting about it through your social media channels. All of your announcements should include the rules of the contest and the deadline when participants need to complete their decorations for judging.

3. Provide basic materials: Not all employees will be willing to spend their money to participate, so if you want fuller participation, offer basic materials everyone can use. These may include red and green streamers, tinsel, and plenty of white card stock to cut into snowflakes. Another idea is to set up a donation center where participants can leave extra decorations for others to take and use.

4. Judge and present awards: You can’t have a contest without issuing awards, so plan how you’re going to determine who wins. One idea is to take the whole office on a cubicle tour one day and have all the employees vote afterwards on their favorite. Alternately, you could assemble a panel of judges from the management. Whatever your method, make sure to have a snazzy winner certificate. You can present one grand winner or create several unique awards, like “Most Creative,” “Most Colorful,” “Best Christmas Theme,” etc. In addition to your certificates, you could also offer a perk like going home a few hours early before the Christmas holiday!

traditional green standard certificate paper

Feeling inspired by the above ideas? Shop our site now for Christmas Border Papers, red and green Certificates, and more. It’s never too early to shop for Christmas!

November 19, 2013

Sample Business Christmas Letters for Your First Go Around

Filed under: Christmas & Holiday Party Tips — Tags: — PDWriter @ 12:31 pm
Red Ribbon And Pine Border Papers by PaperDirect

As Christmas approaches, your business may have a certain obligation to greet, and maintain connections with, a wide array of clients and fellow industry leaders. One of the easiest ways to fulfill this necessity is with the creation and distribution of an annual Christmas letter.

Unfortunately, developing a Christmas letter that is informative, interesting, and relevant is easier said than done. For a unique but practical business Christmas letter, keep the following tips in mind.

Formal Business Christmas Letter Example:

*Note you may need to edit this letter to apply more directly to your clients, customers or partnerships.

December 12th, 2022

Greetings Charles,

Very Warm Wishes from your Partners at [Company Name]. We hope this letter finds you, your employees, and your family well.

We wanted to take a moment and share with you how much we value our partnership. It means the world that you have continued to trust and rely on us through the past 5 years and we are confident that our business would not be the same with your presence.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays- we hope the new year brings you great joy and prosperity.

Sincerely,

  • Your Name
  • Your Business
  • Your Website
  • Your Phone Number

 

Casual Business Christmas Letter Example:

Happy Holiday Charles!

I wanted to take a few minutes out of my day and personally thank you for your business. It means a lot to us down here at [Company Name] and we certainly look forward to all the good times we’re going to have in 2022!

Ring in the new year with your friends and family, and we’ll see you next year. Merry Christmas!

Best,

  • Your Name
  • Your Business
  • Your Website
  • Your Phone Number

Other Tips for Letting Writing: 

Keep It Succinct

Glee Tree Border Papers by PaperDirect

Details are great when you’re writing a Christmas letter, but you don’t want it to be too dry or read like a stream-of-consciousness novel.

Highlight one or two important happenings from the past year before continuing to the usual Christmas greetings. A colorful story that ultimately connects to the Christmas season is ideal; this will help to better organize your letter, while keeping the focus on this all-too-important time of year.

Be sure to begin and end each letter with a mention of Christmas — and utilize the letter’s body for company updates.

Don’t Be Afraid To Follow In The Footsteps Of Great Writers!

Do you know of a client or vendor who never fails to send excellent Christmas letters? Why not look to this individual or organization as inspiration for your own letter writing process?

Make a point of hanging on to the best Christmas correspondence each year and then using it as a starting point for your future writings. These sample business Christmas letters should prove especially useful if you find yourself stuck with an annoyingly persistent case of writer’s block.

Reflect The Spirit Of The Season With Your Border

Obviously, you want to distinguish yourself with a letter filled with intriguing content. But if all else fails, you can always redeem yourself through the selection of a cheery border that is in keeping with the spirit of the Christmas season.

Botanical Joy Border Papers by PaperDirect

Look for Christmas border papers with familiar holiday concepts, such as mistletoe, holly, candles, ornaments, or for a religiously significant touch, angels. Your border should reflect the tone of the letter; if the content is not cutesy, a border with adorable dancing snowmen might not be the most appropriate.

Writing a business-oriented Christmas letter can be nerve wracking, especially as the implications for this year-end communication are so significant.

But with a little care, you can easily craft a meaningful letter that will get your business off to a great start come January! For more tips on Christmas letter writing, view last year’s post.

Or shop now for stunning Christmas paper.

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