Times may be tough, but morale is still important in the workplace. Many companies are swapping their swanky perks for simple office picnics. The family-oriented gatherings show appreciation, reduce stress and strengthen teamwork. Plus, expenses for food, beverages and entertainment are fully tax deductible!

You can tie your picnic to a summer promotion, a fun theme or both. One car dealership celebrated the end of a successful sales campaign with a baseball theme. Attendees were given baseball bat shaped pens when they arrived. It was later announced those with certain colored pens won door prizes – such as baseball jackets, bats, tickets, caps and coolers. Employees scrambled to check their pens, and everybody had a ball.

An insurance company holds a "Summer Fiesta" picnic every year featuring an auction of camping equipment, sporting goods, beach gear and other summer products. Employees bid on the items with "bonus bucks" they earn by meeting selected goals. Families and coworkers cheer on hopeful bidders, adding to the merriment.

To make your picnic memorable, present each family with a "picnic survival" pack they can use that day and later on. This could be an insulated lunch cooler filled with sun-block, water bottles, mini beach balls, koozies or foam visors - all of which can be imprinted with your logo for lasting memories. When planning outdoor activities, consider team-building events, and set aside popular (and useful) items to use as prizes. Folding camping chairs, deluxe picnic baskets and stainless steel thermoses are excellent choices.

Call us today for great ideas to make your summer outing a home run!