The toss is the high point, but the minutes either side decide whether it feels joyful or chaotic. A simple sequence with a named owner for each step keeps things relaxed.
Gathering: guests are directed to their table or station and told when the programme starts.
Welcome: the host acknowledges the occasion and explains how everyone will take part.
Ingredients and phrases: as each ingredient is added, the host offers the matching auspicious phrase in a short, friendly way.
The toss: everyone lifts together on the host's cue, with enough elbow room at each table.
Photographs: capture each table before platters are cleared.
Transition: guide guests into lunch, games or back to their desks.
Close: end on time with any announcements.
A professional emcee helps for a large or mixed audience, while a confident colleague can lead a small office session. Either way, the host should practise the phrases, explain them simply for colleagues new to the custom and keep the tone inclusive. Nobody should feel pressured to shout or perform.
Employees often have different break windows, so plan backwards from the time people must return to work. Place the toss early, before plates of food arrive and attention drifts to the meal. If leaders are giving a short message, put it just before the toss when everyone is already standing together.
Lo hei is meant to be lively, but ask guests to toss upwards rather than outwards and keep chairs tucked in. Hosts at each station can watch for crowding and step in gently.
About this guide: Corporate Lo Hei Event Guide is written and maintained by Get Out! Events, a Singapore corporate event company at 14 Robinson Road #08-01A, Singapore 048545. It contains general planning guidance only; confirm current venue rules, permits and partner requirements before you book anything.