
One of the first big projects that we newcomers are entrusted with by the company is the organisation of the company party. Once again this year, all 23 of us trainees and students went all out to make the event a success. Apart from the celebration in the colder season, we had planned another change for this year’s event: We also decided to expand the list of invitees to include people who have already retired from Messe Frankfurt. We wanted to strengthen the ties between the generations.
Instead of a conventional Christmas party, we opted for a more original concept focused on a winter wonderland. For us, this meant snow-covered landscapes and twinkling lights, and a conscious decision to do without the traditional colours of red and green. Our project manager, Miriam Linke, who is in her second year of training to become an event professional, was very clear: “It was not supposed to be a traditional pre-Christmas party.” The goal was to allow partygoers to immerse themselves in the magic of winter. To this end, we decked out the Forum here on the exhibition grounds with lots of fairy lights and other wintry decorations including a real Christmas tree. The festive adornments contributed to the special atmosphere of our party. Holding the event during the colder time of the year also offered a very practical benefit for our trainees and students: no one had to work up quite as much of a sweat.

Creative planning and teamwork
Planning this party took a real team effort. We began getting together in groups for brainstorming sessions and drawing up initial plans months in advance. During this time, even the craziest ideas were welcome as we sought a theme for this year’s event. Then, as planning progressed, the trainees and students split up into teams to look after the various tasks involved – from decorations and equipment all the way to the supporting programme. Regular meetings with our project management and the entire planning team offered opportunities to present the progress being made and to get feedback. This not only helped the organisation of the party, but also strengthened the collaboration amongst trainees and students. In addition, it allowed us to move beyond the boundaries of our own departments and make contacts with other colleagues, something that is very important for our work in future.

An evening packed full of highlights
The winter landscape in the Forum offered an enchanting backdrop, inviting everyone to leave their hectic workdays behind. One of the most striking features was an oversized snowman with a target that invited visitors to throw Velcro snowballs at it. Another popular highlight was the photo station with winter disguise accessories and an arts and crafts station where participants could design their own bracelets or key fobs – practical keepsakes for their everyday lives and work.
Our project manager summed it up nicely: “We can all be proud of what we achieved – the party was a complete success.” The company party offered everyone a wonderful opportunity to get together in a wintry atmosphere and enjoy the magic of the colder months of the year.