If you’ve ever planned a Christmas party before you’ll know it takes more than mince pies, mistletoe and mulled wine to create the perfect Noël celebration. Here are some useful tips on how to get into the holiday spirit and plan a party full of festive cheer for your friends, family and colleagues this Christmas:
Curate the perfect guest list
Are you organising a close-knit Christmas party with your nearest and dearest, a professional work event or a full out celebration incorporating your entire friends list? Whatever you choose make sure you draw up a list of everyone you want to invite so you can stay on top of numbers and find a venue and budget that fits. Bignell Park caters for private dining as well as larger parties, which can include music, dancing and a festive menu at your request.
Send out your invitations early
Give your guests plenty of advance notice by sending your invites as early as possible. Traditional paper invites are a seasonal classic but you can also send out emails or video messages for an extra touch of personalised sparkle this Christmas.
Choose a theme and create a personalised playlist
The party atmosphere will depend on the time of day that you hold your event. Daytime get-togethers tend to be brighter, breezier and shorter where as evening affairs can last well into the early hours of the morning. Choose a theme that fits in with the time of day and the type of people on your guest list – classic Christmas decor, tableware and napkins are ideal for family events with children but bolder options that don’t fit the traditional mould can be perfect for an event with friends, like a murder mystery theme or fancy dress. Spend time creating a playlist that guests can dance to or allow the expert Christmas party planners at Bignell Park to do it for you; you get all the glory with none of the leg work!
Cater for every taste
Traditional Christmas lunch is a must at any Xmas party and Bignell Park offers a show-stopping yuletide menu featuring turkey and all the trimmings, fillet of beef, venison and cod loin alongside decadent desserts like crème caramel, chocolate tart and Christmas pudding. However, remember to include an option for vegetarians, vegans and other guests with special diets. Caterers will always make adjustments to the menu to ensure everyone has something delicious to feast on. Choose a buffet for larger groups or opt for a sit-down meal for smaller get-togethers with crackers and party poppers. If you’re hosting the party at home make sure everyone gets a drink and something to nibble on as soon as they arrive.
Organise transportation
The finishing touch is to organise everyone’s transportation home. Remember it can be challenging to get taxis during Christmas week so a little pre-booking will ensure all your guests get home safely.
Bignell Park Hotel 