From spreadsheets to sparkles

A holiday party shouldn’t feel like another day at the office with tinsel on top. When you celebrate in the same space where deadlines loom and meetings happen, it’s hard for anyone to truly relax. The conversation never fully leaves work mode, and the surroundings are a constant reminder of where you’ll be sitting again come Monday morning.

We’ve seen it firsthand—take the celebration somewhere new, and the energy changes completely. People open up, conversations flow, and colleagues connect in ways they never do over the coffee machine. The night becomes about celebrating shared successes and enjoying each other’s company, not just marking the end of the year. At Glass House, we combine modern design, thoughtful details, and flexible spaces to help you host a gathering your employees will actually remember.

Here’s how to make your corporate holiday party feel personal, engaging, and memorable.

The setting shapes the entire event. Glass House offers an open, light-filled layout anchored by handmade glass lighting created on site by our sister company, Hennepin Made. Curved walls, warm wood accents, and clean architectural lines create a backdrop that feels inviting and adaptable to any style.

Pair the space with a theme to tie everything together—Winter Wonderland, Great Gatsby, or Holidays Around the World—to make the celebration feel distinct from any other night of the year.

An invitation is your first opportunity to set the tone. Whether printed or digital, thoughtful design and clear details go a long way in sparking excitement. Include a note about your venue and any special experiences guests can look forward to.

Food and drink shape the atmosphere as much as décor. Work with one of our preferred catering partners to design a menu that blends seasonal flavors with inclusive options for every guest. Add interactive elements—like a cookie station, global tasting booths, or chef-led demonstrations—to keep things engaging.

Our in-house bar service can create seasonal cocktails, wine pairings, or beer selections that match your theme. Personal touches—like custom drink names or a whiskey tasting—add to the experience.

Décor can transform the mood of the space. Layer in lighting, centerpieces, and even seasonal scents like evergreen or peppermint to create a fully immersive environment. Our mobile walls offer opportunities for branded backdrops, art displays, or statement installations. See more in our furniture and layout guide.

Keep the energy up with activities that encourage connection—holiday trivia, team games, ornament-making, or cocktail classes. Entertainment might include live music, DJs, improv, or a glass blowing demonstration from Hennepin Made. For more ideas, browse our vendor resource guide.

Mark the occasion by recognizing individual and team accomplishments. You can also incorporate a charitable element, like making donations in employees’ names or planning a volunteer activity. Our in-house AV or trusted partners can ensure presentations and speeches run smoothly.

Photo zones, themed backdrops, and professional photography help guests remember the night. Create a custom hashtag to make sharing easy and keep the celebration going after the event.

A surprise performance, giveaway, or personalized gift can turn a great party into one people talk about long after the holidays are over.

Send invites with plenty of lead time, follow up with reminders, and manage RSVPs for a smooth planning process. After the event, send thank-you notes or share photos as a thoughtful wrap-up.

Glass House makes holiday party planning simple. From our light-filled, design-forward space to our curated list of partners and in-house services, we provide everything you need to create a celebration that feels thoughtful, personal, and effortless.

Contact us to start planning your holiday event.