Christmas at Keele
From the moment guests arrive they are swept away through a magical evening of roaring log fires, sparkling Christmas trees and garlands and carols sung by our resident choir
Christmas partygoers want more say in this year’s company celebrations as increasing numbers of employees contribute financially to festive parties, says Keele University Conferences and Events.
Marcus Wilson, head of marketing at Keele University, says: “After the recession forced many businesses to scale back or even cancel their Christmas parties, we’re seeing a growing trend towards employee-funded festive celebrations, with staff now having more of a say in the organisation of an event.
“We’ve therefore listened to the feedback from guests over the years and have honed the perfect recipe for a Christmas party. From the moment guests are welcomed by Keele Hall’s liveried doorman, they are swept away through a magical evening of roaring log fires, sparkling Christmas trees and garlands, and live carols sung by our resident choir”.
As well as scaling back on Christmas parties, the team at Keele has also seen first-hand how businesses are favouring events at other times of the year – such as summer sports days – in lieu of a Christmas celebration, which could have an impact on staff morale.
“Businesses mustn’t forget the importance of a Christmas celebration in keeping their staff engaged” says Marcus. “Christmas provides the ideal opportunity to thank staff for their year-long contribution, but also acts as an opportunity to get people excited about the year ahead and what it will bring. For example, why not combine a corporate meeting with a festive celebration.”
Keele Hall, a Grade II listed 19th Century building located in the heart of the Staffordshire countryside and the region’s biggest events venue, welcomes over 5,000 visitors throughout the Christmas period and this year offers festive events from November 2014 into January 2015.
Christmas party nights at Keele Hall are ever-popular and guests can opt to stay overnight at the Management Centre thanks to affordable accommodation rates and a complimentary door-to-door taxi service to the party and back – as well as the option of a late night bar for a post-party nightcap.
Groups of any size can party the night away at Keele Hall’s Christmas party nights from £37.50 per guest, with a four-course meal prepared by Keele Hall’s award-winning culinary team, followed by the opportunity to strut their stuff on the dance floor ‘til 1am.
There are also daytime options for smaller groups to enjoy a relaxed lunch full of locally sourced seasonal produce in Keele Hall’s Terrace restaurant from £16.50 per person for two courses, while groups of 40 or more guests can book the Salvin Room for a four-course private festive lunch for £24.00 per person.
For more information on Christmas at Keele Hall, call 01782 732020 to speak to a Christmas coordinator, or visit www.keele-conference.com/christmas/