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When it comes to planning your company’s holiday celebration, “cost” goes far beyond the invoice. Sure, there’s the venue rental or catering bill, but what about the time your team spends setting up, the stress of planning, or the impact the experience has on morale? At UNION Kansas City, we believe it’s time to look beyond the surface and uncover the real cost of hosting your Kansas City holiday party in the office versus at a professional event venue.
Direct Costs: Holiday Party Venue vs. Office
At first glance, hosting a party in the office might seem cheaper, but once you add up all the hidden expenses, the difference often isn’t as large as you think.
Venue costs may include:
Rental fee (often includes tables, chairs, and setup)
Catering and beverage packages
On-site staffing and cleanup services
Office costs often include:
Catering drop-off or delivery charges
Furniture and linen rentals
Décor purchases or DIY setups
Labor for setup, teardown, and cleaning
When you factor in rentals, staffing, and time, the total spend between the two options often evens out. The big difference? What you get for your investment.
Hidden Costs of Hosting at the Office
While hosting an office holiday party sounds simple, it comes with a list of unseen costs that go beyond money.
Time & Labor: Your team becomes the setup crew: hauling tables, hanging decorations, and cleaning up afterward.
Lost Productivity: Employees spend work hours prepping and decorating instead of focusing on business goals.
Limited Space: Conference rooms and break areas rarely have the space — or atmosphere — for a festive celebration.
Morale Impact: An in-office party can feel like an extension of the workday rather than a reward for a successful year.
The Psychological ROI of Hosting at a Venue
Moving your party offsite changes everything. Hosting your event at a Kansas City venue like UNION creates an elevated experience that boosts morale and engagement in ways an office can’t replicate.
Signals Appreciation: Treating your team to an event at a beautiful space shows you value their hard work.
Increases Attendance: Employees are far more likely to show up — and stay longer — when it feels like a real celebration.
Creates Memories: Professional lighting, décor, and ambiance lead to more photos, laughter, and connection.
Reduces Stress: Venue teams handle the details, so your employees can actually enjoy the party instead of working it.
The “Experience per Dollar” Factor
Even if a venue event costs a bit more upfront, the experience per dollar is where it truly pays off. A holiday party at UNION is an investment in culture, retention, and appreciation. Employees leave feeling valued, motivated, and connected to the company, which has a lasting impact long after the decorations come down.
Tips for Making a Venue Holiday Party Cost-Effective
Book on a weekday: Many venues, including UNION, offer discounted weekday rates.
Simplify your décor: Elegant lighting and architectural features can do the heavy lifting.
Opt for inclusive packages: Catering and bar bundles make budgeting easier and more predictable.
Ready to Compare Costs for Your Team?
If you’re debating between hosting your Kansas City holiday party in the office or at a venue, take a closer look at the full picture. The cost difference might be smaller than you think, and the experience difference is enormous.
Plan your celebration with UNION, where convenience, flexibility, and atmosphere come together to create a stress-free, unforgettable event. Tour UNION today and explore custom options that fit your budget while maximizing your “wow” factor this holiday season.
