Meeting Organisers: The Key to Successful Meetings
January: Non-Alcoholic Drinks
During January frosts, the desire for comforting, warm drinks, a vital encouragement to your team meeting arrangements. Refreshments and incentives are a great way to support and show new people that they are in the right company for success.
With the festive season in the rear-view mirror, mulled wine has long been a seasonal favourite, and a delicious alternative that’s alcohol-free yet just as delightful.
Raise the Meeting Bar
“One of our deepest human needs is to feel cared for. As babies, without others’ care, we would not survive. Because of the energy necessary to develop a human brain, humans evolve more slowly than other animals. Because human beings are social beings meant to survive in groups, not as individuals, showing that you care about someone helps them feel included in a group that could be vital for their very survival.” (Julie Kratz, Forbes)
Food, Drink and Comfort really matter in the workplace: Working from Home is suddenly challenged with providing balanced space and time. What is needed is plans for human needs, in a way that encourages progress!
We find we can incentivise our day and tasks and personalise the treatment of our bodies for maximum output. This includes nutrition, and the refreshment bar at your next meeting organisers venue needs updating…
Refreshments made with fruits like cranberries, forest fruits, or peach juice, and infused with a blend of spices and fruit peels. Non-alcoholic hot beverages provide the same soothing warmth and festive flavours as mulled wine, without the alcohol.
Deeply nutritious and full of Vitamin C, as well as all the benefits of the minerals and even the heart-warming addition of chilli!
Winter can be a tough time emotionally and economically. The days are shorter, the sun less frequent, and the cold weather makes us crave cozy drinks to warm us from the inside out. Easy-to-make, versatile drinks that not only meet this need but also offer a nutritious boost are next!
Corporate meeting organisers wonderful option for families, gatherings, and looking to provide a comforting drink at events without the complications of alcohol.
Ingredients for Hot Fruit Punch (Non-Alcoholic)
We originally sampled this wonderful recipe from The Gourmet Journal but some very popular chefs are creating their own versions as you also may find exiting!
Your Basic recipe combines fruits, spices, and peels to create a fragrant, delicious, and non-alcoholic punch:
- 1 litre of cranberry juice (or peach juice, or a mix of forest fruits)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 crushed cayenne peppers
- 4-5 cloves
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2-3 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1-2 star anise (optional)
- Fresh orange slices for garnish
Method:
For: Five glasses: Multiply liquid ingredients as needed, and spices to taste.
- Prepare the Ingredients: In a deep pan, pour the cranberry juice (or chosen fruit juice) and heat over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise (if using), and fruit zests.
- Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, letting the spices infuse the juice with their warming aroma.
- Sweeten to Taste: Add honey or maple syrup to taste. Stir well to combine.
- Serve: Pour the hot punch into mugs and garnish with fresh orange slices for a beautiful presentation.
- Optional Add-ins: For extra depth of flavor, you can add apple slices or a splash of lemon juice for a little tang.
Hot Beverages Springclean
Great additional choices for non-caffeine and non-alcoholic subscribers.
A non-alcoholic hot fruit punch, or smoothies are perfect for winter gatherings, as it can easily be prepared in large batches and served to guests who may not drink alcohol. It’s a great drink for meeting organisers looking to provide a comforting, crowd-pleasing option at corporate events or family celebrations.
Health and Warmth!
Working from Home for many people, can bring a sense of isolation especially with financial or emotional burdens during the colder months. This is a reassuringly delicious choice in food and drinks, to offer at company reunions and updates.
At holiday gatherings, at a work event, or simply enjoying cold winter nights at home, hot fruit punch can be as satisfying as mulled wine. Plus it’s added benefit of being alcohol and caffeine-free.
Easily prepared, soothing alternative to mulled wine.
The natural sweetness of the fruit juice, combined with the warming spices, creates a satisfying drink that provides both emotional and physical warmth. It’s also a healthier option for those who may prefer to avoid alcohol but still enjoy the festive feel of the season.
Popular Chefs and Cooks Options and Ideas
If you’re looking for inspiration or recipes for other comforting hot drinks, several chefs and food bloggers specialise in hot beverages perfect for winter:
- Jamie Oliver – Known for his approachable cooking style, Jamie has many recipes for festive and comforting drinks, including mulled non-alcoholic options.
- Nigella Lawson – The queen of comforting food, Nigella often shares recipes that warm the soul, including her take on mulled wine and other hot beverages.
- Food52 – This popular culinary platform offers plenty of seasonal drink recipes that are perfect for the winter months.
- Waitrose Partners – A great source for easy-to-follow recipes that include non-alcoholic versions of hot drinks, perfect for family gatherings or corporate meetings.
Meeting Organisers and Hot Drinks for Winter Events
Team potluck dinners
“Food does wonders at bringing people together, especially when it’s home-cooked. Next time you plan a team dinner, opt for a potluck over a restaurant. It’s a great way to get all employees involved. Food is also at the center of culture, so having your teammates share dishes they love or grew up with is a terrific way to celebrate diversity, an important component of engagement, in your team.” (StaffAny, My)
Meeting organisers
Corporate gathering or a social event, the importance of offering a variety of comforting hot drinks cannot be overstated. In the winter months, when attendees may feel the chill and need a pick-me-up, providing a selection of beverages like hot fruit punch, tea, or non-alcoholic mulled wine can make a huge difference. These drinks not only help people feel cozy and relaxed but also encourage interaction and create a positive atmosphere.
For those organising wintertime events, consider serving this easy hot fruit punch alongside other crowd-pleasing options such as herbal teas or hot chocolate. This will ensure there’s something for everyone, making your event both welcoming and inclusive.
Our Choice for Events
As the days are colder, at least in the Northern Hemisphere, take comfort in the simplicity and deliciousness of hot fruit punch, a non-alcoholic drink that delivers all the warmth and festive cheer of mulled wine, without any of the alcohol.
Meeting organisers looking to offer this type of drink can raise the bar for any winter event, indoors or outside!
Success on the Agenda begins with a great ambiance and setting for your events, with all modern convenience. Team consideration goes a long way to team achievement and company or community success!