Without a doubt, December is the ultimate party season. From work dos and Christmas Day, right up to New Year’s, there’s a lot of celebration to be had. If you’re big on your parties during the festive season, you’re likely to be holding one yourself. Here are six tips and things to consider to create a party to remember.
Create a sense of occasion
The best way to give your party the wow-factor is attention to detail. Pick a theme that will inform your decor and dress code and go all out on the decorations. Mix in some quality centre pieces such as a large bouquet of fresh, seasonal flowers or a decked out Christmas tree. Brian Kirkby in Wimbledon does some beautiful bouquets.
Don’t forget the lighting. Candles and fairy lights can bring a soft, romantic glow to a room and are more welcoming than full, bright lighting.
If you really want to impress, commission a beautiful event invitation that’ll give your party a slick and professional edge. Contact TC Design for your event.
Consider your guest list
When putting together a guest list, think about inviting a range of different people. A mix of ages and professions will mean plenty of interesting topics to discuss and opportunities to network. Saying that, try to make sure there are people there to suit everyone and that they are likely to get on with. If you have the space, let guests bring a plus one to make them feel more comfortable.
Always over-invite rather than under-invite. That’ll give you room for people who can’t make it as well as last-minute drop outs.
Hire catering and a bartender
Hiring a professional catering team and bartender takes the stress away from you and will help your event run more smoothly. Plus, there’s nothing worse than not being able to enjoy your own party because you’re too busy worrying over whether everyone has a drink in hand.
NC Supper Clubs are a brilliant catering team that are available to hire for parties all over London. They work with top chefs such as Anjula Devi, Coco Labelle and The Curry Guy.
For an extra special touch, Hannibal Brown are an artisan wine merchant that offer a personalised wine label service that will really impress your guests.
Nothing beats live entertainment
Music is a big part of the night. Why not upgrade from a playlist to a live performance? Christmas is the perfect excuse to book So Sinatra, the UK’s finest tribute. Or if you’d like something more current, opt for Wimbledon’s own talent Malory Torr whose striking sound has been compared to artists like Lorde and Marina and the Diamonds.
Nothing adds a magical touch to a party quite like… real magic. David Harris is a London based magician who’s performed all over the world from the Monaco Grand Prix to Sipsmith’s Christmas party. He specialises in close-up magic that you can see unfold right before your eyes. Fascinate your guests and leave everyone feeling entertained. Book him here.
“As you can see, David is so much more than a brilliant magician, he’s someone people love spending time with – making him a valuable asset to any party.” – CK Golding
“I highly recommend that you experience David warping your mind!!” – Baz Seal
Create photo opportunities
Capture the atmosphere of the party forever with great photography. Hire a photographer to take professional images, or set up a photobooth or vanity light area. All you need is a camera on a stand and some carefully curated props – then let your guests do the rest.
Create extra space
Have you considered hiring a marquee to create some extra space? If your house allows, the marquee can just become an extension from your back room straight into your garden. With starlit lighting and a heater it’s a beautiful area for guests to relax in.
JF Marquees have some stunning designs to hire in London and Surrey.
Cheers to the party season!
Written by Sunna Naseer
Instagram: @sunna_naseer
Twitter: @Sunna_Naseer
Facebook: @inspiredinthecity