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5 Essential items for office parties

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Productivity is crucial at the office, but so is building chemistry. An office party can be a way to bond without looking at spreadsheets or talking shop.

Happy hours are a popular way to spend time with colleagues outside of the office, but having a few items in-house can allow you to raise a glass as soon as the clock strikes 5. Parties don’t have to involve alcohol, either. There are plenty of options for booze-free parties whether you’re a dry office (no shame), are supporting a colleague in sobriety, or simply want to have fun in a different way. Dessert soirees and cheese and charcuterie nights make for delicious options.

Raise a glass to the employee of the month or a new business deal at office happy hour. This eight-piece bartender set boasts everything you need to get the party started and keep it going. It comes with a shaker, jigger, mixing spoon, two pourers, and a built-in strainer. The cocktail cards can inspire you and your employees to try out new beverages as a team.
$0 from Amazon

This whiskey stones gift set makes the perfect addition to the office that binge-watched Mad Men together. Toast to the end of a solid workweek with a pair of 10 oz. whiskey glasses. The set also comes with two coasters to help you avoid ruining office furniture, chilling rocks, and tongs. It can all sit in a beautiful wooden crate with cocktail cards that inspire you to get creative with craft beverages.
$25 from Amazon

Lite bites are essential whether you’re having a cocktail party or a booze-free gathering. This large wooden cutting board from Thirteen Chefs is a gorgeous way to display, serve, and prepare appetizers. Made from acacia wood, it boasts subtle gold walnut accents. It’s durable and water-resistant, so it can withstand cleaning, cuts, and spills.
$26 from Amazon

Cake is a must-have for office birthday parties. Really, though, it’s a perfect addition to any gathering. Though taste matters most, a flawless presentation shows employees you put a little extra effort into the party. The square display, modest 3.75-inch height, and solid wood design make it sophisticated without trying too hard.
$61 from Amazon

Having options for staffers who don’t drink makes the party more inclusive. This soda siphon from Innovee Home lets people sip something alcohol-free that is sparkling and special. It comes with a carbonator, and it’s easy to clean and dishwasher-safe — your office manager will be thrilled. If people are using it as mixers for alcohol, there can grab a cocktail recipe card. They’re included with the set for added creativity.
$23 from Amazon $22 from Walmart

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Office parties serve as a way to get to know one another outside of the 9-to-5(ish) grind. People can let loose and let their guards down a bit, and it can build chemistry within the business. Happy hours are a tried-and-true option, and for a good reason — they’re fun. Cocktail shakers and whiskey stones set the stage for a buzz-worthy affair. However, alcohol-free options are also on the table. Serve up a delicious cheese and charcuterie board with multiple options to expand your staff’s palettes, or play to their sweet tooths with a cake even when it’s no one’s birthday. Make it fun and creative, and your employees will be toasting to you.

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BethAnn Mayer
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Beth Ann's work has appeared on healthline.com and parents.com. In her spare time, you can find her running (either marathons…
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