13 Company Summer Party Ideas for Connection & Collaboration

Come summertime, nature is in its zenith. Trees boast lush, verdant leaves. Flowers dazzle with one bright hue after another. Take your cues from the season’s color palette, and embrace a bright and bold color scheme for your own corporate soirée. Incorporate bright florals, vibrant uplighting, and vivid rentals (like these pink-frosted donut-shaped floaties) to make your party pop. 

Pro Tip: Create your own mood board by saving your favorite photos to an Idea Slate. Just click on the image to see the celebration’s event album in full. From there, click on the heart at the top right corner of your favorite photos. 

A great party starts with a great party theme — regardless of the season. Consider a party theme, like this neon cactus-inspired bash, that lets you play with bright summer hues. Of course, even a sci-fi theme can exude luxury with a chic rooftop space and refined details.

Pro Tip: Find the perfect party theme with The Best Party Themes [Resource & Guide].

If April showers bring May flowers, then June brings a whole lot more. In the natural world, florals are a summer staple — and the perfect décor choice for a summer fête. Lean into blooms that offer a variety of bright hues like mums, anemones, and zinnias. Make sure to supplement your floral installations with plenty of fresh greenery, as well.

Pro Tip: Use PartySlate to find a talented florist near you.

You heard it here first: Ball pits aren’t just for kids. Incorporate a colorful ball pit, accented with summery beach balls, into your corporate event. Not only will guests love the eclectic décor choice, they’ll also appreciate the opportunity for a one-of-a-kind photo op. 

Pro Tip: Use PartySlate to find a rental company near you.

Nothing says “summer” like a pool party. Add a pop of color to your corporate event with fun floaties (and a beach ball or two, of course). For a more sophisticated event, use muted décor like white blooms, candlelight, or fairy lights.

Pro Tip: Use PartySlate to find the perfect outdoor venue for your summer bash.

If you live in Chicago like many on the PartySlate team, you know how crucial it is to take advantage of the fleeting summer weather. Make the most of the summer days (and nights) with an outdoor corporate event — complete with al fresco dining.

Pro Tip: Hire a design and floral company to curate the perfect tablescape, as well Instagram-worthy décor like tenting, signage, and balloon accents. 

Enjoy fresh summer produce with the help of a top-notch caterer. Look to a caterer that values presentation as much as flavor. Whether you opt for a sit-down meal, passed apps, or a laidback snack station, your guests will appreciate the delectable bites.

Pro Tip: Use PartySlate to find a top caterer for your summer corporate event.

Cool off with refreshing summer spritzes, bubbly, and custom cocktails. Elevate your beverage service with custom-print trays, matching serving attire, and immersive sip stations. There’s so much to toast come summertime — so make sure you also offer mocktails for those who prefer not to imbibe.

Pro Tip: Use PartySlate to find bar services and mixologists near you.

Opt for a beverage truck or stationary bar area for a fun photo op and engaging décor moment. Bar setups are also a great opportunity to feature your brand or company color palette. We recommend pairing your bar area with tray service to avoid long lines and missed networking opportunities.

Pro Tip: Find even more bar ideas and inspiration in PartySlate’s “Corporate Idea Gallery.”

Communication and collaboration benefit any company, so make sure you offer a designated area for thoughtful conversations. Consider using throw pillows for a branding moment or a stylish backdrop for the perfect photo op.

Pro Tip: Explore other curated lounge areas from real corporate events on PartySlate.

Corporate events are an extension of your marketing strategy. Make sure your brand stays top of mind with fun photo ops that guests will share on social media. Don’t forget to encourage guests to share a branded hashtag when posting on their private accounts.

Pro Tip: Use PartySlate to find a talented photographer to capture all of your favorite moments.

Keep your guests engaged from the moment they walk in the door with riveting entertainment acts. Entertainment is also a great way to segment your celebration — creating rotating opportunities for networking, learning, team-building, and pure fun. 

Pro Tip: Use PartySlate to find the best in corporate entertainment — from live bands and DJs to performance acts and activities.

Make sure your guests feel cared for with thoughtful party favors. Consider setting up a pop-up shop to display curated gift boxes or summery party bags like picnic baskets or woven totes. Fill your packaging of choice with summer favorites like branded frisbees, sparkling water, colorful sweets, and more. 

Pro Tip: Use PartySlate to find a favors & gifts company for thoughtful keepsakes.