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If you’ve ever watched The Office’s chaotic holiday parties, you know exactly what not to do. From awkward gift exchanges to karaoke gone horribly wrong, watching the Dunder Mifflin crew celebrate is hilarious, but your actual company holiday party doesn’t have to be a comedy of errors.
Whether your team’s based near the Carmel Arts & Design District or in neighboring suburbs like Fishers or Westfield, here’s how to throw an unforgettable office holiday party in Carmel — with no remnants of a Michael Scott meltdown.
DO Set the Scene (Don’t Use the Break Room)
The Dunder Mifflin crew made do with tinsel and desk lamps, but your accounting team has budgeted for actual decorations. A truly memorable celebration starts with the right setting: one that feels like a treat, not just another team meeting with punch and pretzels.
Hosting your party outside the office completely transforms the experience. At BASH in Carmel, our bright, modern space gives your event an instant upgrade with high ceilings, white walls, and room for everything from dinner and dancing to cozy cocktail hours. Bring in decor with your company’s branding, choose your favorite vendors, and customize every detail to fit your team’s vibe, whether that’s classic and elegant or fun and festive.
DO Plan Ahead (Don’t Send Invites the Day Before)
Remember how The Office always seemed to throw things together last-minute? Don’t be that team. December dates book up fast in Carmel with weddings, corporate events, and community galas, and the best venues go quickly.
Start planning early so you can lock in your dream space and preferred vendors. At BASH, our team makes it easy to coordinate everything, from catering and rentals to setup and breakdown. If planning isn’t your strong suit, consider partnering with an event planner like 828 Planning who can take the reins (instead of relying on an untrained “party planning committee”).
Pro tip: Secure your Carmel office holiday party venue early to get the best dates, pricing, and planning support.
DO Keep It Classy (Don’t Let It Turn into a Meredith Moment)
We all love Meredith, but her version of “holiday spirit” might not fly with HR. Keep things classy — and fun — by choosing a bar setup that fits your group. From open bars to drink tickets to festive mocktail stations, there are plenty of ways to celebrate responsibly.
Pair drinks with crowd-pleasing catering options, and let BASH’s flexible vendor policy help you bring in your favorites. Plus, our staff ensures your bar and service run smoothly throughout the night, so you can focus on mingling — not managing.
Local twist? Swap the eggnog overload for craft beers from Carmel favorites or a loaded hot cocoa bar that everyone can enjoy.
DO Make It About the Team (Don’t Make It Awkward Like Secret Santa)
Ah yes — the infamous Office gift exchange. The iPod, the oven mitt… the chaos. Avoid the awkwardness by focusing your party on connection, not confusion.
Consider raffle prizes, team awards, or a lighthearted gift swap with a local twist — maybe something sourced from small businesses right here in Carmel. BASH’s versatile layout works for any setup: cocktail-style mingling, a formal seated dinner, or even a dance floor reveal when the night gets going.
DO Capture the Moment (Don’t Rely on Blurry Photos from HR)
If it’s not on camera, did it even happen? Make sure your holiday party memories last longer than Monday morning chatter by hiring a photographer or setting up a photo booth.
BASH’s bright interiors and modern décor make for the perfect backdrop, and we offer photo booth and décor add-ons to make your setup extra Insta-worthy. Want to brand the event with your company logo or colors? Our planning team can make that happen seamlessly.
Ask about our photo booth and décor add-ons to make your Carmel holiday party picture-perfect.
Leave the Cringe Moments to The Office Reruns
Your company’s holiday party should be memorable for all the right reasons. When planned well, it’s more than a fun night out; it’s an investment in team morale, culture, and connection.
With stunning modern spaces, flexible options, and a Carmel vibe everyone loves, BASH is the perfect setting for your company’s holiday celebration.
Book your Carmel office holiday party today before Michael gets another bright idea.
Related Reading: Every The Office Christmas Episode to Watch Now If You’re Craving Some Festive Chaos
