Montreal's vibrant energy truly comes alive during terrace season, and at L'Ambroisie et L’Espace Canal, we're ready to welcome you to an unparalleled outdoor experience. With not one, but two stunning venues, each boasting a beautiful terrace with 200 seats, we offer the perfect backdrop to enjoy the city's warm months. Our unique location provides an abundance of exterior spaces, making L'Ambroisie et L’Espace Canal in Montreal the ideal choice for a wide range of events, from casual gatherings to grand celebrations.

Unbeatable Location: Downtown Waterfront by the Lachine Canal

What sets L'Ambroisie in Montreal apart is our exceptional location right downtown on the waterfront by the Lachine Canal. This prime spot not only offers breathtaking views but also grants us access to the picturesque Château St-Ambroise gardens & gazebo and the scenic Parcs Canada area with its bike path and waterway. Imagine your guests strolling through lush gardens or enjoying a leisurely walk along the canal before or after your event – it's an added touch that makes all the difference.

Endless Possibilities on Our Expansive Terraces

Our terraces are more than just outdoor seating; they're versatile spaces ready to be transformed for any occasion. Whether you're planning a relaxed BBQ & méchoui, a romantic wedding ceremony, fun outdoor games, or sophisticated business cocktails, our terraces can accommodate your vision. The possibilities are truly endless, and our team is dedicated to helping you create the perfect atmosphere for your event.

Elevate Your Terrace Event with Chef-Inspired Culinary Experiences

When planning a terrace event in Montreal, the setting is just the beginning. At L’Ambroisie et L’Espace Canal, we believe the culinary experience should be just as memorable as the view. That’s why our menu is guided by the creative vision of Stuart Abrams, Chef Owner, who has personally led the venue for over 20 years. His passion and hands-on approach are reflected in every dish we serve.

We specialize in unique culinary features that go far beyond the standard event fare. Imagine the excitement of a live oyster shucking station, the smoky drama of a traditional méchoui, or the buzz around a custom cocktail bar staffed by our in-house mixologists. These interactive and visually engaging elements don’t just feed your guests—they create moments they’ll talk about long after the event ends.

Working closely with you, our team can tailor a menu to suit your vision, preferences, and guest list, whether you're planning a relaxed summer soirée or a sophisticated corporate celebration. With Chef Stuart at the helm, you can expect a dining experience that’s as thoughtful, personalized, and elevated as the venue itself.

Live Music Thursdays: The Perfect Summer Vibe

Join us on the L'Ambroisie terrace for free live music every Thursday throughout the summer. These lively evenings are ideal for group reservations looking for a fun night out or a casual 5à7 with friends and colleagues. Enjoy great tunes, delicious drinks, and the beautiful Montreal scenery – it's the perfect way to unwind after a long week.

Space and Amenities for Every Need

Just like our indoor venues, our terraces can accommodate groups of 25 and up & private events up to 500 guests. And while you're enjoying the outdoors, you'll still have access to our integrated amenities, including:In-house DJ Service, A/V systems, Polychrome lighting, Projectors and wireless microphones.These amenities ensure that even outdoor events can be polished, professional, and immersive. Plus, with 200 onsite parking spaces and close proximity to the subway/metro, getting to L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal is convenient for all your guests.

Mark Your Calendars: Terrace Season Launch!

Get ready to kick off the summer season with us! We are thrilled to officially launch our terrace season on Thursday, May 22nd, with an exciting evening featuring live music, special promotions, and delicious cocktails. Stay tuned to our website and social media channels for more details as we get closer to the date – you won't want to miss it!

Don't wait to plan your perfect summer event. Book your BBQ, méchoui, wedding ceremony, corporate cocktail party, or any other special occasion on our beautiful terraces now! Contact us today to discuss your needs and secure your preferred date. We look forward to helping you create a memorable experience under the Montreal sunshine!

Call us at 514-932-0641 or contact us online

As the Montreal summer heats up, so does the desire for exceptional outdoor gatherings. At L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal in Montreal, we're thrilled to bring back our signature summer BBQs and traditional méchouis, offering a unique culinary experience right on our beautiful terraces. Imagine the tantalizing aroma of expertly grilled food wafting through the air as you and your guests enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of our waterfront location.

A Culinary Experience Cooked Live, Just for You

Our summer BBQs and méchouis are more than just a meal – they're an interactive event. Our talented chefs take center stage right on the terrace, cooking your chosen fare live for everyone to see. This adds an exciting element to your event, allowing your guests to witness the culinary magic firsthand. The delicious food is then served buffet style, offering a relaxed and communal dining experience.

Your Vision, Our Expertise: Direct Interaction with the Chef

At L’Ambroisie et L’Espace Canal, we believe that great food should be personal—and that starts with direct access to the person behind it all. For over 20 years, Chef Owner Stuart Abrams has been the driving force behind the culinary identity and event experience at L’Ambroisie. As a hands-on founder who built the business from the ground up, Stuart brings unmatched passion and attention to detail to every event.

Whether you want your steak cooked to perfection or prefer a specific cut of meat for the méchoui, your guests can speak directly with Stuart to tailor the menu to their tastes. It’s this one-on-one interaction that elevates each event, transforming it from a standard gathering into a custom-crafted celebration.

Backed by a family-operated philosophy and Stuart’s clear vision—from curated turn-key packages and menus to thoughtful room layouts and amenities—L’Ambroisie et L’Espace Canal offers more than just a venue. It offers an experience where nothing is off the rack and everything is built with your guests in mind.

Downtown Waterfront Delight: The Perfect Montreal Backdrop

Our prime location near downtown Montreal on the waterfront by the Lachine Canal offers a picturesque backdrop for your summer event. The gentle breezes and scenic views create an idyllic setting that's both easily accessible and feels like a true escape from the city bustle.

The Perfect Choice for Every Occasion

Summer BBQs and méchouis on our terraces are incredibly popular for a wide variety of events. Whether you're planning a corporate team-building event, a unique wedding celebration, or a vibrant cultural gathering, our outdoor spaces provide the ideal atmosphere. The casual yet sophisticated setting encourages connection and creates lasting memories.

Accommodating Your Guest List: From Intimate to Grand

No matter the size of your group, L’Ambroisie et L’Espace Canal can comfortably host your summer BBQ or méchoui. We cater to groups of 25 and up, and our private event options can accommodate up to 500 guests. This flexibility ensures that whether you have a small department gathering or a large company-wide celebration, we have the perfect space for you.

Elevate Your Menu with Unique Features

To make your summer event even more memorable, we offer a selection of unique menu features. Imagine a dedicated oyster shucker preparing fresh oysters for your guests, the impressive sight of a whole méchoui being carved, or the artistry of our cocktail mixologists crafting signature drinks.

These special touches add a layer of sophistication and excitement to your gathering. With that in mind, Stuart continues to lead the company with a focus on exceptional service, curated packages, refined menus, and attention to detail.

Seamless Event Execution: Integrated Amenities

While you're enjoying the outdoor setting, you'll still benefit from L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal’s integrated amenities. We offer in-house DJ services, integrated A/V systems, polychrome lighting, projectors, and wireless mics to ensure any presentations or entertainment aspects of your event run smoothly.

Convenience is Key: Easy Access for All

L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal in Montreal offers the convenience of 200 onsite parking spaces, making it easy for guests arriving by car. We are also conveniently located close to the subway/metro, providing a hassle-free option for those using public transportation.

Don't Miss Out: Book Your Summer BBQ Today!

There’s nothing quite like a summer BBQ or méchoui by the water, and at L’Ambroisie et L’Espace Canal in Montreal, we make it unforgettable. Whether you're planning a corporate gathering, family reunion, or milestone celebration, our stunning canal-side terraces provide the perfect backdrop for a warm-weather event filled with flavour, charm, and great memories.

What makes planning easy? Our turn-key packages are designed to take the stress out of organizing. We handle every detail—from menu creation and amenities to layout and service—so you can relax and enjoy the moment.

Summer dates fill up fast, so don’t wait. Reach out for a personalized quote and lock in your preferred date now. Contact us today and let’s start planning a summer celebration that’s as effortless as it is unforgettable.

Call us at 514-932-0641 or contact us online

Planning a corporate event in Montreal requires finding a space that not only accommodates your team and your vision but also elevates the entire experience. L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal in Montreal stands out as a premier venue, seamlessly blending elegance, functionality, and a prime location to ensure your corporate gatherings are both successful and memorable. With a proven track record of hosting a diverse range of events, L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal offers the expertise and amenities to bring your corporate vision to life, no matter the season.

Your Year-Round Partner for Corporate Success: Experience Matters

When it comes to hosting corporate events, experience is paramount. L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal in Montreal isn't just a restaurant; it's a seasoned event venue that proudly hosts an impressive 200 corporate events every year. This significant volume speaks to the trust and confidence that numerous Montreal businesses place in L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal to deliver an exceptional experience. This experience translates directly into a smooth and reliable event planning process for you.

Tailoring to Your Vision: A Spectrum of Corporate Event Styles

The needs of businesses in Montreal are diverse, and L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal understands this implicitly. Whether you're envisioning a sophisticated cocktail reception to foster networking, a professional conference for knowledge sharing, a lively company party to celebrate achievements, a casual summer BBQ for team building, or a meaningful fundraising gala for a worthy cause, L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal offers the versatility to accommodate a wide spectrum of corporate event styles.

Their adaptable spaces can be transformed to perfectly match the ambiance and requirements of your specific occasion. Imagine a stylish cocktail reception in a chic setting, complete with delectable hors d'oeuvres and expertly crafted drinks. Picture a well-organized conference with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment. Consider the energy of a company party with oyster shuckers and a vibrant atmosphere, or a team-building BBQ on their terraces. L'Ambroisie’s experience in these varied event types, including team-building activities, as highlighted in their blog post "5 Reasons to host your Team Building Event at L’Ambroisie", demonstrates their capability to cater to your unique corporate objectives.

Space to Connect: Accommodating Groups of All Sizes

L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal in Montreal offers the flexibility to accommodate both intimate gatherings and large-scale events, with a capacity ranging from 25 up to 500 guests. Their venue features distinct areas, including the elegant L'Ambroisie and the versatile L'Espace Canal. These rooms offer different ambiances and configurations, allowing you to select the perfect setting for your specific event size and style. This adaptability makes the venue ideal for departmental meetings, workshops, or large company-wide celebrations.

Powering Your Event: Integrated Amenities for a Seamless Experience

In today's technologically driven world, seamless event execution relies heavily on integrated amenities. L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal in Montreal provides state-of-the-art technology to ensure your corporate events run smoothly and effectively. Their integrated A/V systems—including projectors, wireless microphones, and customizable polychrome lighting—facilitate impactful presentations and allow you to craft the perfect ambiance, whether it's a formal conference or a celebratory gathering. For events that evolve into evening festivities, their in-house DJ agency offers professional dance party services fully compatible with the venue’s audio setup, making transitions effortless.

These built-in features eliminate the need for external vendors, saving time and simplifying logistics. As emphasized in their blog post "Corporate Party Planning: 8 Tips for a Successful Corporate Event", reliable technical support is essential—and L’Ambroisie has thoughtfully integrated every element for a turn-key corporate event experience.

Location, Location, Location: Convenience for Every Attendee

Accessibility is a critical factor in the success of any corporate event. L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal in Montreal boasts a highly convenient location, offering a significant advantage for attendees. With over 200 onsite parking spaces, guests arriving by car will find ample and hassle-free parking. Furthermore, L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal’s proximity to the subway/metro makes it easily accessible for attendees utilizing public transportation. This dual accessibility ensures that your event is convenient for a wide range of attendees, regardless of their preferred mode of transport.

Unwrap the Magic: Book Your Montreal Christmas Parties Early!

As the holiday season approaches, the demand for exceptional Christmas party venues in Montreal skyrockets. L'Ambroisie et L'Espace Canal in Montreal is a popular choice for festive corporate celebrations, and their calendar fills up quickly. To avoid disappointment and secure your preferred date and time, it is highly recommended to book your Christmas party well in advance. Early booking not only guarantees your spot but also provides you with ample time to plan and customize your event to create a truly memorable experience for your team. Ambroisie's blog post "Holiday Party Planning: 8 Things to Consider When Holiday Party Planning" offers valuable insights into the key considerations for planning a successful holiday reception, demonstrating their expertise in creating magical festive events

Savor the Summer on Our Stunning Terraces: BBQs and Méchoui Await!

Summer in Montreal offers the perfect backdrop for outdoor corporate events, and L'Ambroisie et L’Espace Canal in Montreal provides an exceptional setting with its stunning terrace. Imagine hosting a relaxed and enjoyable summer BBQ or a traditional méchoui for your team, taking advantage of the beautiful weather and the unique ambiance of Ambroisie's outdoor spaces. These types of events are ideal for team building, informal networking, and celebrating the summer season. Similar to the holiday season, popular dates for summer events tend to get booked quickly. To ensure you secure your preferred terrace and date, it is advisable to plan and book your summer BBQ and méchoui well in advance.

Ready to Elevate Your Next Corporate Event? Contact Us Today!

Our expert event sales team is here to support you every step of the way—from answering your questions and preparing customized proposals to securing your booking with ease. With seamless logistics and professional coordination as our hallmark, we ensure your event runs according to plan and delivers exactly what you envisioned.

For over 20 years, Stuart Abrams, Chef Owner of L’Ambroisie, has been the driving force behind our success. As the face of the company, Stuart built L’Ambroisie and L’Espace Canal himself and continues to oversee every detail with a hands-on approach. His vision shapes everything we offer—from fully customizable turn-key packages and tailored services, to thoughtfully planned room layouts, gourmet menus, and carefully curated amenities. His dedication is the foundation of our owner-operated, family-run business, and it’s what sets us apart

Whether you’re planning a corporate gala, a team celebration, or a private event, our custom event solutions and turn-key packages make the process easy and worry-free.

Start planning your next successful corporate event in Montreal today. Call us at 514-932-0641 or contact us online.

Team building initiatives in the workplace are a great way to enhance an organization’s collaborative environment. From inspiring creativity and innovation to building deeper connections between employees and boosting productivity, team building plays an essential role in a company’s overall success.

If you’re looking for the perfect location to host your company’s team building event in Montreal, consider L’Ambroisie. Our meeting venue offers many advantages, especially when it comes to corporate events.

Discover why you should pick L’Ambroisie for your next team building event below.

1. Offsite Meeting Venue

There are many benefits to holding an offsite meeting venue. Removing your employees from their usual work environment will help increase their focus on the initiative or activity you’re hosting. They will be less tempted to check emails or take calls, which means distractions will be significantly reduced.

An offsite team building activity will also be more exciting for your employees. This enhanced experience will create a positive environment and motivate your troops. They will remember this unique experience forever and their overall satisfaction could increase employee retention.

2. L’Ambroisie Location Advantages

You don’t have to seclude yourself in a hotel located hours away to experience the benefits of an offsite meeting venue. By remaining in Montreal, you not only save on time but accommodation and transportation cost too. Montreal is a vibrant city that already offers a wide selection of activities that you and your team can enjoy.

L’Ambroisie is a great choice for your offsite team building event because it offers the best of both worlds. Although it’s only 10 minutes from downtown, it feels like you’re miles away from the city. Featuring beautiful outdoor gardens and terraces, acres of parkland, including walk and bike paths, and waterfront views, our corporate event venue truly is ideal.

Château Saint-Ambroise, the historic building that houses L’Ambroisie, sits on the banks of the Lachine Canal. This beautiful canal is the perfect setting for a wide range of summer and winter activities. It is also easily accessible by public transit and has up to 500 paid parking spaces available for you and your organization.

3. Customized Events

Let us assist you in planning your corporate event. Your team building event can be customized to your organization’s needs and special requests. Our spacious venues offer plenty of room for both indoor and outdoor activities, integrated audiovisual equipment for presentations and a fully equipped kitchen to provide food and beverages throughout the day.

Our team can also help you brainstorm, plan a program and refer you to several vendors should you need their expertise. Whether you wish to rent bikes or kayaks and organize a scavenger hunt around the canal, hold a lip sync battle or plant trees outdoors, L’Ambroisie can provide useful advice. After a full day of fun team building activities, why not reward your employees with a cocktail reception and live entertainment? These are a just a handful of ideas to inspire your planning process, but rest assured that whatever your needs we can make your vision come to life thanks to our turnkey approach.

4. Great Food and Custom Menus

Good food is a must when it comes to organizing a corporate event. We’ll prepare delicious meals in our fully-equipped kitchen, using fresh and quality ingredients. Choosing L’Ambroisie means you don’t have to worry about hiring a caterer for your team building activity since we provide all food and beverages in-house. Chef and Owner Stuart Abrams can customize group menus to your needs, including allergy and dietary restrictions.

Whether you prefer a cocktail reception with theme stations, a buffet or a sit-down meal with several courses, we’ll gladly cater to your needs. We can also provide personalized bar service if you choose to serve alcohol during your event. Leave the meal logistics to us: all you have to do –is enjoy your dish!

5. A Stress-Free Experience

Our highly experienced team has worked with many organizations in the past and knows what it takes to ensure a successful event. Thanks to our hassle-free event coordination service, you can rest assured that your event will run smoothly.

What does this service entail? Not only will we provide on-site management and technical support on the day of your team building activity, but we can also help you in the initial brainstorming stage, build a custom event package and assist you with any special requests.

Convinced Yet?

When you choose L’Ambroisie for your company bonding event, you choose peace of mind. Located only 10 minutes away from Downtown Montreal and on the banks of the Lachine Canal, L’Ambroisie offers the ideal setting for offsite meetings and team building exercises.

Our customized turnkey packages can include anything from beautiful meeting rooms, state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, food and beverages, on-site event assistance and in-house MC and DJ services. Whether you already have a solid vision for your event or need ideas for team building ice breakers and activities, we can help you and make vendors recommendations.

For instance, there is Outback Team Building & Training. Recommended by over 6,000 corporate groups across North America, their activities and programs are available anywhere, anytime, for any sized group.

When it comes to planning a corporate event, consider L’Ambroisie and let us help you make your offsite team building activity unforgettable.

For more information about our custom packages, please contact us today.

Planning a corporate event takes time, organization and sharp multitasking skills. Whether you’re hosting an office party, a conference, a team building retreat or a networking event, there are several elements to check to guarantee success.

To ensure you cover your bases, you first and foremost need to develop a checklist. Your checklist is the core of your planning strategy and will help guide you through the whole process. Here are 8 items you should be including on your list.

1: Venue & Date

The venue should be your priority. You should choose a venue according to the type of event you’re holding. For example, if you’re organizing a retreat, consider a hotel or resort that is secluded from the downtown core so you and your coworkers can focus on the content of your meetings and activities.

If you’re hosting a networking event or conference, it’s best that you pick a venue that is easily accessible to maximize the number of attendees.

You also must determine the date of the event and whether your desired venue can accommodate you. Budget is another element that will influence your choice, so make sure you have a clear idea of how much your company is willing to spend.

Another thing you should be looking for in a venue is whether they offer built-in services or provide in-house personnel and equipment. If so, you should take advantage of these options as it relieves the burden of managing everything from A to Z. Imagine if you could take items off your checklist and use that time to focus on the content of your event instead. These amenities and on-site assistance from your venue boost the odds that your event goes as planned, without any hiccups or bumps in the road.

2: Equipment & Technical Support

What kind of equipment will you be needing for your event? Notepads, projectors, widescreens, microphones, televisions, computers… the list is endless when it comes to organizing a corporate event. Ensure you make a detailed list of everything you need and whether Internet access will be required.

In addition to having audiovisual equipment on site, some venues will help you with set up and providing technical support. Don’t forget to inquire whether this is a possibility and make sure to test the equipment prior to your event, so you can focus on other important tasks on the day of the event.

3: Food & Refreshments

Believe it or not, food is a crucial part of the event’s overall success. If your attendees are hungry, chances are they’ll be distracted. In-house catering is always the best option for meals as your venue already has the personnel and equipment required to prepare fresh, quality food. From snacks to buffet-style menus and full course meals, many options are available. Keep in mind that you should be serving several meals if you’re planning an all-day event.

Providing easily accessible refreshments such as coffee, water, and juice is another important element. Will alcohol be served? If so, determine what type, the quantities and when it will be served. You don’t want guests to lose their focus during important day meetings or seminars. Alcohol is best suited for evening mix-and-mingle type activities.

You also should take into consideration your guest’s food restrictions and allergies. When sending out your invitations, make sure you ask your invitees if they have special dietary needs. Healthy vegetarian options should always be included in your menu since some non-vegetarians prefer to eat lighter, wholesome food during the day.

4: Floor Plan

Your floorplan inevitably influences your venue choice. Once you’ve ensured your venue fits your layout requirements, determine a floor plan that works best for your event. How many tables will you be needing? Do you need a separate space for eating or will it be a luncheon type of event?

Team building exercises work best if everyone faces each other, whereas presentations and seminars should have a traditional classroom-type layout. If you’re planning a networking event with a “speed dating” activity, rows of separate tables with two chairs facing each other are preferable.

After determining your floorplan, don’t forget to communicate it to your venue so they can prepare the space accordingly.

5: Guest speakers

Your corporate event plan should also include booking guest speakers. Although some events don’t require them, it’s always a good idea to have an industry professional share their knowledge, motivational guidance or other relevant expertise to inspire your attendees.

Your speaker’s tone and style is incredibly important. Ensure he or she has the appropriate personality for your event. As for many items on this checklist, adequate planning is key. Highly sought-out speakers can be booked months in advance, so if there’s someone specific you’d like to invite, plan ahead!

6: Activities & Entertainment

Entertaining your guests with various activities and music is a great idea if you want your corporate event to be memorable. If you’re only allocating time for seminars, meetings or speakers, your guests could easily get bored or worse… leave the event altogether. Activity ideas include icebreakers, mixers, virtual reality booths, and workshops.

If your budget permits, allocate some money for paid entertainment. If your event extends until the evening, it’s always a good idea to hire a DJ, a live band, an impersonator or even a comedian to amuse your guests. Don’t be afraid to ask your venue if they have a list of DJs or bands they recommend. Your venue most likely has an established relationship with several entertainers that already know the ins and outs of their equipment. Keep in mind that the entertainer should fit well with the type of event you’re hosting.

7: Itinerary of Events

Identify the start and end times of the event, including meal times, breaks and activities. Don’t forget to forward the information to your venue to ensure food is served on time. Any key personnel hired for entertainment and keynote speakers should also receive the itinerary of events to ensure the schedule goes according to plan.

A successful event relies heavily on seamless execution. Ensure your corporate event is one of them.

8: Event Sponsors

If you’re planning a product launch or an industry conference, chances are you’ll have event sponsors. If this is the case, you need to determine how you will be showcasing their brand. Will you be including their logos on event banners, invitations, and promotional material – or will there be an allocated booth for these companies?

Goodie bags are another clever marketing tool to represent a brand, and most people love receiving free stuff.

With these tips in mind, planning your corporate event shouldn’t be complicated. Remember: one of the most important elements is to secure a venue. Once you’ve done that, the rest should fall into place.

Looking for the perfect venue to host your corporate event? Please don’t hesitate to contact L’Ambroisie to inquire about our special events packages and turnkey solutions.

The holidays are a time for gatherings, festive music and of course, great food. By the time December comes along, you’ve probably been invited to a wide number of parties by coworkers, friends, and family.

Are you party planning yourself? From big-budget corporate parties to small get-togethers with loved ones, event planning can be overwhelming and stressful. Whether you’re holding an ugly Christmas sweater contest or a chic evening with eggnog cocktails, following these basic holiday party planning rules will ensure a successful event.

1: Select a Type of Party

First and foremost, you need to determine what type of party you’re having. If you’re organizing a corporate holiday celebration, you need to establish whether this is a company-wide event or for a sole department.

The type of party will also be influenced by your guest list and budget. Again, if this is a corporate event, will spouses and plus ones be invited or is it only for employees? If you’re hosting a private event, you need to decide if it will be an intimate gathering or a big bash.

An organized guest list will help you allocate the amount of money you’re willing to spend per person. Depending on your budget, you’ll be able to determine the tone and theme of the party. Will it be an extravagant affair or a casual evening? Will there be a dress code?

2: Set a Date & Choose a Venue

The key to securing the venue you want for your event is to plan ahead. If you’re starting to party plan in late November or early December, you’re probably already too late. You’ll have a hard time reserving the date and venue you have your heart set on if you’re not two steps ahead in the game.

Fridays and Saturdays are often already spoken for, so don’t hesitate to host your party on a Thursday. Of course, if you’re hosting the event in a private home or at the office, setting a date shouldn’t be a problem.

If your employees work tirelessly during the holiday season, start the year in style and instead give them an appreciation party in January. Your chances of getting the coveted room on the desired day increase and several owners will even offer advantageous off-season packages.

3: Send Invitations

Another crucial element to ensure a successful event is the life of the party itself: your guests. It may sound obvious, but you need to let your guests know in advance that you’re inviting them to a holiday celebration. If it’s an adults-only party, this will give your guests enough time to find a babysitter if they have children.

Schedules fill up quite quickly in December, and your party won’t be any fun if nobody shows up.

4: Develop a Menu

When developing the menu, there are several things you need to keep in mind. First, you need to choose and hire your caterer as soon as possible. If you leave it to the last minute, you might not get the quality and level of service you’re looking for. Some venues offer an in-house catering service or have a built-in kitchen, which many find convenient. Already having a chef and kitchen staff on hand makes it that much easier to prepare quality, delicious food for you and your guests.

Secondly, you must decide what type of meal you want to offer your guests. Will be it a standing cocktail event with appetizers? Or would you rather have a sit-down, full course meal? Maybe you’re considering a buffet option… Whatever you choose, ensure the menu falls within your budget and fits the type of Christmas party you’re hosting.

5: Produce Some Bar Options

There are several types of bar options you can choose from for your holiday event. Depending on the number of guests and budget, you can provide an open bar, top-shelf bar service, a partial payment bar or even a full payment bar.

Some people also limit the type of alcohol served to save on costs. For example, some hosts offer two bottles of wine per table or more depending on the number of people seated. Another option is offering one or two free cocktails and having your guests pay for any additional drinks. It really is up to you and how much you’re willing to spend.

If you’re providing alcohol, consider partnering with a drive-home program. People tend to drink more than usual over the holidays, which is why being a responsible host is a good idea to ensure everyone arrives home safely.

6: Select the Entertainment

Holiday party planning also means exploring your entertainment options. If you’re considering hiring a DJ or a live band for the event, once again, secure them in advance. If you’re running a little behind schedule and can’t find live entertainment, don’t hesitate to ask your venue for a list of recommended DJs or bands. Certain venues with built-in audiovisual systems can provide in-house entertainment too.

If you’re tight on cash and can’t afford an entertainer, just ensure you have appropriate background music playing. Your venue can probably provide you with a selection of holiday playlists that would be perfect for your Christmas party. Fun games and activities can also be part of your DIY entertainment.

7: Prizes, Favours& Recognition Ceremony

A good host knows it’s a good idea to treat guests. In the case of a corporate party, treating your employees and recognizing all their hard work over the past year is an absolute must. Whether you distribute gift cards to everyone or hand out a select amount of door prizes, your gesture will be greatly appreciated.

Corporate Christmas parties are also an excellent opportunity to recognize key personnel who have contributed to your company’s success. From awards to trophies and plaques, employees should be rewarded for their outstanding contribution.

In the case of a private party, there are several budget-friendly options you can explore. Homemade Christmas cookies, a tree ornament or a DIY hot cocoa kit are inexpensive yet festive gifts you can give your attendees.

8: Create a Follow-Up

If you hired a photographer to capture the highlights of your corporate holiday party, use the photos to your advantage in your post-party process. In addition to being a perfect social media sharing opportunity, it’s also great content to have for email marketing and company newsletters.

Holiday event planning does require time, research and organization, but with a little inspiration and helpful tips, your Christmas party will be unforgettable.

Looking for the perfect venue to host your holiday party? Please don’t hesitate to contact L’Ambroisie to inquire about our special events packages and turnkey solutions.