Not everyone is able to plan a holiday event months in advance, and that’s okay. If you’re searching for last-minute corporate holiday party venues in Chicago, Wintrust Sports Complex can help. Here, we’ll discuss how we make pulling off a last-minute holiday party easy, as well as some tips for making up for lost time.
Planning a Holiday Party Last-Minute? You’re Not Alone
If you’ve found yourself scrambling to plan a holiday party at the last minute, you’re not alone. Plenty of businesses get caught up in the rush of end-of-the-year deadlines, travel, shopping for gifts, hosting family, coordinating events in their personal lives, and more, only to realize their work party somehow slipped through the cracks. In fact, it’s very common for companies to book holiday party venues in Chicago just weeks or even days before their event.
The good news is that just because you’re planning last-minute doesn’t mean the party itself will be a failure. It’s a great thing that you’re choosing to host a party at all, since only an estimated 64 percent of companies choose to do so. As long as you pick the right space with a team that knows how to handle quick turnarounds, and if you can make a few time-saving decisions in the process, your event can feel just as festive and memorable as one you might have planned well in advance.
Why Wintrust Sports Complex is the Perfect Last-Minute Holiday Party Venue
Wintrust Sports Complex is one of the best last-minute corporate holiday party venues in Chicago since we offer many in-house options and flexible setups to fit your theme and group with little advance notice. If you find yourself in a rush trying to book a venue at the last minute, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’re here to help!
On-Site Catering
We offer on-site catering that allows you to choose from a variety of menu options, or you can work with our chefs to create a personalized one. If you’re planning a party at the last minute, you don’t want the added complexity of dealing with external vendors, and everything at Wintrust Sports Complex is handled in-house.
Flexible Spaces
Whether you’re throwing a large event or a small one, we have options for mingling, dining, and games throughout our 72,000-square-foot center. Additionally, all of our options can be customized at the last minute, so you won’t be missing out just because you booked late.
Low or No Setup
Rather than spending extra time renting tents or heaters for an outdoor venue, we offer a climate-controlled event area that’s perfect for corporate holiday gatherings.
Family-Friendly
Looking to host a family-friendly corporate party in Chicago? Wintrust Sports Complex welcomes guests of all ages. Kids and adults can enjoy a range of activities, including our 4,000-square-foot arcade and laser tag arena, no extra setup necessary.
Full Access
We offer all-inclusive packages that make planning a breeze. Instead of piecing together food, activities, and entertainment separately, you can book a deal that covers access to our games, activities, and equipment, giving you everything you need. The best part is that every amenity is ready and available when you are, so there’s no extra coordination, setup, or stress. All you have to do is show up and let us take care of the rest.
Experienced Event Coordinators
Our Wintrust Sports Complex team is here to help your party run smoothly. We’ll work with you to understand your plans and make them happen, including coordinating with vendors, managing timelines, and addressing last-minute changes. Don’t have a plan? That’s okay too! Our company holiday party venue offers many built-in amenities that are already in place for you.
Tips for Throwing a Last-Minute Corporate Party
Are you throwing a last-minute corporate party? Here are some time-saving tips to help your event still feel thoughtful and fun.
Choose a Venue with Built-In Entertainment
Entertainment is often the trickiest part to plan last minute. Instead of hiring bands or entertainers (which may be booked up), look for company holiday party venues near you that come with built-in options. That way, you don’t have to coordinate extra vendors, and instead, your guests can just jump in and start having fun.
Simplify the Menu
Food can get complicated, so we suggest skipping an elaborate multi-course dinner and instead going for buffet-style meals or appetizers.
Keep Décor Minimal
If you’re planning last minute, a few holiday touches like string lights, seasonal centerpieces, and a holiday photo backdrop can go a long way. Focus on items that make the space feel festive without requiring hours of setup or cleanup.
Delegate
If you’re the organizer, break your tasks into small chunks and assign them to volunteers. This will make the planning process much faster.
Use Digital Invites
If it’s too late for printed invitations, you can send out a quick email invite or use a tool like Evite or Canva to design something cute and festive. As a bonus, you’ll also get a headcount faster.
Focus on the Experience
At the end of the day, people will remember if they felt appreciated, had good food, and got to share a good time. If you’re planning last minute, focus on the big picture, like space, food, drinks, and atmosphere, and let go of the rest.
Host Your Last-Minute Corporate Holiday Party at Wintrust Sports Complex
Even if you’re planning at the last minute, Wintrust Sports Complex is here to help. Our 72,000-square-foot center can be set up with different-sized areas depending on your plans and the size of your guest list. Kids and adults alike can enjoy a range of activities, and we offer on-site catering and event planners, meaning you can focus on your attendees while we handle the details.
Ready to get started at our corporate holiday party venue? Contact us today to learn more about hosting your party with us!