Make the journey work for you
Turn the RSVP into a travel list
A party headcount is not a transport headcount. Some colleagues may travel from the office, others may meet you at the venue, and partners may join for the return. Ask each person which journey they need before requesting the final vehicle arrangement.
- Record an outward and a return choice separately.
- Collect a pickup or drop-off address for each travelling group.
- Include partners and accompanying children in the relevant leg.
- Set a date for replies and nominate one person to consolidate changes.
Keep a provisional list if invitations are still open. Tell Connect which numbers are estimates and when you expect to confirm them.
Choose a return pattern staff can use
Decide whether the function ends at one agreed time or whether some staff need to leave earlier. A second departure is an additional movement to quote and confirm. Do not offer it on the invitation until the transport arrangement is agreed.
| Party arrangement | Transport decision |
|---|---|
| Office to venue | Confirm who can reach the office and whether returning there helps them get home. |
| Dinner with one finish | Agree a gathering point and departure after the meal, including time to collect belongings. |
| Early and later returns | Allocate names to each requested journey and ask whether both are available. |
| Several home addresses | Send the complete address list so the route and price can be assessed. |
Give the venue a practical brief
Ask the venue which entrance your group should use and where a vehicle may stop. A restaurant booking time does not tell the driver when guests will be ready outside. Share the meal start, expected finish and any venue closing requirement with Connect.
If the evening includes another stop, such as moving from an activity to dinner, include it in the original request. Ask who should contact Connect if a course is delayed or the programme changes. Keep one organiser responsible for approving changes.
Send the booking and payment details together
Make it clear whether the employer or another organiser is arranging payment. Ask about any receipt or invoice requirements before accepting the quote. Connect's published overnight policy adds a cost for transport between 10pm and 7am, so quote the actual return time.
Connect encourages advance booking. A submitted request is a discussion of availability and terms; wait for confirmation before telling staff their transport is booked.
Before you enquire
Is this a scheduled Christmas party bus?
This page is for a group booking enquiry. It does not advertise a scheduled departure, entertainment package or venue ticket.
Can everyone be dropped at home?
Send every requested address. Connect must assess the route, available time and price before home drop-offs can be confirmed.
Planning information checked 1 October 2026. Recheck operator instructions before travelling.
Connect's Christmas function and vehicle information