4 5 6 7 8 9 10 ALCOHOL RESTRICTIONS Options here include eliminating alcohol—or limiting it. Planche and Levitt say policies could feature, for example, ‘no shots’ rules, closing the bar during dinner, well-briefed bartenders and cab chits or hotel arrangements. DUE DILIGENCE Levitt stresses the legal obligation: “It doesn’t mat- ter what the venue is, if it’s a company event, it is legally the workplace.” PERSONALIZATION “Find out what the company’s values are, whether it’s a particular charity, cause or the environment, and make sure those are incorporated into the evening,” says Planche. INTERACTIVITY “Rarely nowadays do I do events where people are just sitting and watching entertainment,” says Planche, who advises getting people up and interacting. TEAM BONDING Many organizations today prefer smaller departmental events that feature bonding activities such as cooking, video-making or sports. RECOGNITION Whether via a slideshow compilation or other means, recognize the highlights and contributions of the past year, says Planche. THE CHALLENGE True, some companies are steering away from holiday celebrations. According to a 2017 US survey by Challenger, Gray & Christmas Inc., 11 per cent of employers cancelled their holiday bash in 2017, up from four per cent in 2016. Yet Planche says companies who step up and create responsive celebrations can reap very tangible results from their investment. A short drive from the city, yet far from distractions, our historic event venue offers serene space for you to think. Your attendees will leave raving about our resort amenities, outstanding conference food, comfortable accommodations and attentive, professional staff. Experience Millcroft for yourself and book a site tour today. millcroft.com | 1.800.383.3976 | [email protected] | Caledon, ON INSPIRATION in the Hills of Headwaters