When was the last time you thanked a client for their business? With our packed schedules and hectic lives, client appreciation often becomes an overlooked task.
Of course, in our relationship-driven industry, acknowledging and celebrating our clients should always be a top priority. Doing so forges longer-lasting relationships, improves retention, and puts your brand in a more positive light.
Client appreciation parties are a terrific way to show your loyal customers how much their business means to you. However, hosting these events can be a pricey endeavor. Our cost-effective party ideas will help you stay on budget.
Craft a budget
Start by creating a list of all associated expenses (i.e., food, rental equipment, facility charges, décor, entertainment, etc.). After you have determined what you will be spending money on, create a budget with columns that include both proposed costs and actual costs.
Take the right approach
There’s more than one way to throw a client appreciation party. Choose an approach that best matches the comfort level of yourself and your clients.
Take advantage of the warm weather by hosting an outdoor event. Find a neighborhood park that has the space and facilities to host a casual barbeque. Just be sure to check with your town hall/city hall to learn if a special event permit is required. If hosting at a local park is not an option, consider using outdoor spaces at your office.
Also, be certain to provide plenty of entertainment. Games like horseshoes, cornhole, bocce, and badminton are fun for adults and children alike. And create the right party atmosphere with a top-notch playlist. Just be sure to have a quality outdoor speaker (or two) so your guests can enjoy it.
A more cost-effective option is to express your appreciation virtually. Online client parties also offer great flexibility since attendees can participate from the comfort of their own homes or offices.
Before your virtual event, send gift boxes to your attendees. Include items that feature your brand, such as coffee mugs and reusable water bottles, as well as sweet treats, gift certificates, or coupons. Ask clients to hold off on opening their gift boxes until the online event.
One impactful way to kick off the event is to have an engaging speaker who represents your business. Keep your guests engaged by hosting a trivia battle, a game of charades, or a round of show and tell.
End the event by discussing the special items you included in the gift boxes and then thanking clients for their business.
More hosting options
Here is a list of other cost-saving options for hosting:
Community centers. Many offer both indoor and outdoor spaces for gatherings.
Museums or historical sites. These unique settings can provide a memorable backdrop for your appreciation event.
Restaurants or bars. Many offer affordable catering services and/or function space for events.
Planning tips
To stay within your budget, follow these cost-effective planning tips:
For invitations, consider the free offerings on websites like Evite or Canva. Free apps like Invitd allow you to easily send invites and manage your RSVPs.
Ask guests to bring prepared food dishes and have them display the written recipe next to their culinary creation.
Invite guests to bring a favorite bottle of wine for a “taste-and-vote party.” Create score cards and offer a small prize for the winning guest.
Partner with a vendor that is willing to sponsor the event and cover a portion of the costs. (This will also help strengthen your professional network.)
These helpful tips will ensure your next client appreciation party is a fun and festive one.