When work don’t pay, I think the organiser of any party should keep an eye on cost and limit the price. Christmas is an expensive time of year and £45 for a meal, can easily turn into £60 once a couple of drinks and a tip are added on.
Extras can escalate the bill, with some people drinking lots and bills being split. It can all cause a lot of resentment and often the unpredictable nature of the cost is a reason people don’t go.
The fact some are willing to spend a vast sum, isn’t a reason to choose an expensive venue or menu in my view. Better to go simple, with something like a buffet and a cash bar if work aren’t paying. And I know there are loads of places, particularly public sector where you’d be lucky to get a sandwich provided.
Lots of people have multiple things going on at Christmas - meals with groups of friends, new year events, family hosting or meals out….it can all add up to hundreds and hundreds, especially if there are 2 of you getting invited to all these things. Therefore, keeping a lid on the price of inficivduak events is good.
I remember going as the +1 to a couple of corporate paid for Christmas do’s in the early 90s. Fantastic venues, 5 course meals, free bar, fantastic bands and discos and other entertainment and then a night in the hotel and breakfast all provided. Was a lavish splurge…and so much enjoyed because it was small laid on. But none of us would have chosen to spend the several hundred pounds that event would have cost over head, if we’d had to pay ourselves.
Personally I really do t want to spend in excess of £35 all-in for a works do and I understand lots of people might prefer under £20. You either go for an expensive event which effectively excludes lots of people or keep it cheaper and accessible.