Christmas is right around the corner - literally one week from now it will be time for presents. I don't know about you but the Christmas spirit got me as stressed out as excited this year.
If you are like me and you will be spending the holidays with a bunch of people, no matter if they are friends, family or coworkers, you probably know it could get a bit overwhelming. That's why we at Native Spaces decided to share with you some of our tips and tricks on how to make the best of the holiday season.
CHRISTMAS PARTY
SPLENDID MANOR FROM 1830
TIP #1 CHOOSING THE PERFECT VENUE
If you are the one to organize the event, you need to choose the venue very strategically so that everyone can enjoy. You should start with deciding who is going to make it to the invitation list and basically figure out how you can make them happy.
NATIVE SPACES SOLUTION: This beautiful château with calm Provencal atmosphere situated amidst vineyard and history, is ideal for a team-building party weekend to celebrate the end of the year.
TIP #2 ACTIVITIES
If we are talking about work Christmas party maybe a venue that proposes multiple activities would be the best option. When bringing people with different interests that also might be from different generations, it could get tricky to organize a pleasant experience for everyone.
NATIVE SPACES SOLUTION: Build you team spirit by benefiting from the various activities available onsite including wine tasting, hiking, quad rides and cycles. If that isn't enough next door you can find a golf and spa resort as well as a medieval village.
TIP #3 EXPLORE THE BASICS
While all of those activities might sound amazing, they are probably not available at every venue out there and even if they are, they might not fit the set budget. Whatever the case, keep calm and explore the basics! When you think about it everyone enjoys a home cooked meal and board games are always fun (not to mention budget friendly as most of you probably have at least one somewhere at home).
NATIVE SPACES SOLUTION: The villa proposes fully equipped cosy kitchen that is perfect for bringing the team together. Sharing a home cooked meal around the same table can truly shorten the distance and transform colleagues into friends.
TIP #4 BE CLEAR WITH THE PURPOSE OF THE EVENT
Team-building events are obviously crucial for the atmosphere in the team as well as conferences, coaching sessions and some one to one goal setting activities. If you plan to combine any of those activities make sure that the venue can support them. At Native Spaces, you can filter through our selection of unique spaces based on your amenity requirements.
NATIVE SPACES SOLUTION: You can host your goal setting workshops in the rustic style meeting room equipped with anything a professional may need and a peaceful atmosphere created by the view on endless vineyards.
SPECIAL OFFER
We have prepared a limited special offer for 2-4 day Christmas offsites starting from 1,400 euros per night, including property rental, 7 bedrooms, 24h butler, wine tasting and organised visits. To benefit message the host and mention the code: UNIQUEXMAS
SMALL OFFSITE
STUNNING BELLE EPOQUE VILLA WITH HEATED OUTDOOR POOL
TIP #5 REMEMBER TO RELAX
Getting ready for the holiday season can be quite stressful - from picking gifts to hosting events, that's why I wanted to put special attention on not forgetting to enjoy the moment. Believe me your guests will definitely sense whether or not you are stressed. If you don't have Jedi mind tricks to keep you sane throughout the chaos of family events, pick a venue that can keep you relaxed.
NATIVE SPACES SOLUTION:Escape into the beauty and serenity of country living while being minutes away from the renown old town of Antibes, in a contemporary, Côte d’Azur style villa. Now you can enjoy relaxing moments in a heated salty water pool.
TIP #6 TOGETHER TIME
Another key element in planning your holiday event is not to over do it or over plan it. What I mean by that is that you should leave time for what the holiday is actually about - spending time together with your loved ones. No matter if it's by playing board games, sharing a meal or following family traditions, make sure to enjoy to the fullest the simple fact that you are all together.
NATIVE SPACES SOLUTION:The multiple dining and lounge areas that can give a cozy and relaxed feel to your team building have every intention to provide the right atmosphere for honest conversations.
TIP #7 FOOD
I'm a foodie so I couldn't help myself but include this maybe obvious to some tip - everyone enjoys food and its the cherry on top of every event when the menu is on point. Maybe you have that one cousin who started being vegan this summer or your best friend eats only halal. Put the extra effort to make sure that everyone can feel included in the bonding around the table. At Native Spaces we have a list of hand picked service providers that will soon make it to the platform. We can advise on the perfect caterer (or any other professional you might want) according to your needs.
NATIVE SPACES SOLUTION:The indoor and outdoor kitchens are great for BBQ, cook outs and friendly gatherings. Also what better place to bond than around a table full with family cooked meals?
UPSCALE DINNER
A PRIVATE DINING ROOM IN THE HEART OF NICE WITH MICHELIN STAR CHEF
TIP #8 DON'T BE AFRAID TO GO EXTRA
If your budget allows it, I am all for letting your inner diva out and going full extra to express your gratitude towards the people who deserve it. The holiday season is also the perfect time to show appreciation and make those around you feel special.
NATIVE SPACES SOLUTION:This alternative experience is the perfect place for an upscale dinner and a great setting to take your clients, investors, your board or team for relaxing conversations around the same table and an end of year or Christmas treat to say "thank you".
TIP #9 DO YOUR RESEARCH
No matter if it's a business event, family gathering or party with friends - always do your research in order to be fully prepared. You don't want to show up at the wrong place, without a costume or a present. On the other hand if you are the one hosting the event make sure that you know key details about the venue like activities nearby, all exits, number of parking spaces, the entertainment program, the space and amenities for preparing meals or keeping drinks refrigerated .
NATIVE SPACES SOLUTION: Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen is South Africa's first Michelin-star chef, he is also published author, artist and passionate photographer. The menu served is a 6 course Tasting menu with champagne, wine pairing, water and coffee.
TIP #10 FINAL TOUCHES
Last but not least make sure that the atmosphere and decor are suitable for your celebration. At this point you have figured out the type of event, the number of guests and the general idea of the gathering, don't forget to make sure that the atmosphere is in harmony with what you planned so far.
NATIVE SPACES SOLUTION:The splendid decor with chandeliers and natural wood, furthermore inspire intimate conversations that accompany the exquisite menu.
We at Native Spaces hope that you have a great end of the year holidays!
Native Spaces community guru, Yana