How can you throw your staff a Christmas party this year when you're struggling?

I know if I were working at a business that I loved, I wouldn’t mind a pot luck Christmas party as long as everyone was there to celebrate together. Any budget friendly Christmas party ideas you’re planning for your small business? Please share.

Ask people if they want one - sometimes they’d rather have an extra day off to go spend with their family.

I remember years ago I once made a bunch of Christmas themed snacks and my very small team at the time went and sat on the (unfurnished) floor of our brand new factory the last day before we quit for the year. Cost next to nothing and was a heap of fun.

Instead of a party why not a simple gift and a thoughtful message - I loved giving books to my team that I knew they were interested in. Second hand books can be incredibly affordable and it shows you pay attention.

A secret santa where everyone gifts just one person something and you have a pot luck lunch as you suggested?

Whilst it was not done for budget reasons, we have a barbecue every Christmas. One of our core values relates to family, so we encourage the team to bring their kids (who get a gift from Santa) and/or parents.

We usually get around 100 people and the bosses do all the cooking on the barbi. We play games / sports have music and competitions. A fun day that needn’t be too expensive.

I love this. Christmas get togethers don’t have to be fancy, it’s all about the people and it’s a great idea to involve family. Nice one Richard.