Always be ready early

A Christmas party is something that your guests will have been looking forward to for some time. That is especially true when it's an office Christmas Party, because many of guests will have made it an extra special effort when it comes to getting dressed up. So, the least you can do is ensure that when they arrive they have a drink waiting, the music is on, the waitstaff is ready. Nobody wants to turn up and think ‘have I come to the wrong place?’

You want the guests to instantly feel welcome, ready to let their hair down and party.

Make It Easy To Find

If you’re holding an event in Central London then it’s worth considering that you can have venues next door to each other that will be hosting Christmas parties. And, in many cases, there can be multiple Christmas events happening inside the same building.

So, make sure your party is well signposted and think about sending a map of exactly where it will be held. And adding those little touches elevate the event and builds anticipation.

It’s Not Like Any Other Party

You don’t want it to be just another corporate get-together. So, yes, you want there to be food and drink but how about handing out special Christmas cocktails as the guests arrive. Something that instantly makes the night feel different and special.

A pretty drink in a pretty glass can be so effective. I went to a summer party and they were serving this lovely rosemary and lavender lemonade drink. It was so delicious and created a bit of talking point but also made a statement that there has been a bit of extra thought has gone into this.

Also, consider having the waitstaff wear something special. It doesn’t have to be over the top or cheesy but something that is in keeping with the occasion. You can dress up anything from the napkins to the name tags. You can add some seasonal foliage to drinks trays. It's all about those little touches.

At 116 we have chairs included but perhaps you do something special for the evening and you hire in gold chairs. This can often be done at a minimal cost but, again, it’s another one of those little touches that bring the event to life.

But we also have Christmas decorations already taken care of, so that is something you don’t have to worry about as a party planner. So, there are two lovely Christmas trees by the staircase. There are decorations on the mantelpieces and tables.

I often use the word ‘fancy’ to describe 116 to but that’s what it is, right? This isn’t just a studio or a blank white space. It is a venue that encourages people to want to dress up a bit to match the surroundings.

Be Picture Perfect

Taking pictures and posting them online has become such an important part of hosting a party. You might want to set up a photo booth, or it could be a photo wall, but you want somewhere which is designed for people to take pictures of themselves and with their colleagues.

Include a hashtag so everyone knows where to send, and find, pictures from the night.

The thing about 116 it that has a very grand feel to it. But also, it’s a great venue for taking pictures that look amazing on social media. I think it immediately feels like a special place from the moment you step inside and then you walk through and see that amazing chandelier!

Everything in Moderation

Never have a party when you’re providing a lot of drinks but only crisps and nuts for food. It means people will get tipsy. Remember not everyone wants to have alcoholic drinks. You have to think of all of your guests.

You want to have a limit to what you’re serving. Provide your guests with drinks and food but when it gets to later in the evening you might want to provide them with suggestions of other venues in the area that are open until later if they feel like they want to keep the party going.

Also, provide some numbers for taxi companies. Of course, in the case of 116, it is within walking distance of Piccadilly Circus and Charing Cross stations.

Last Impressions Count

If you’re thinking about giving people a gift as they’re leaving just for the sake of it then you’re better off spending the money on food and drink. Who needs another cheap tote bag?

But if it is going to be something special then great. Who doesn’t like a special gift!?!

I’ve been to parties where there have been illustrators walking around and it always goes down well with party guests. They will produce something that is unique and will create a talking point that guests will want to take home and keep.

There is a cookie company in the city and they will create personalised treats. You might like to put your name on it or the names of your kids.

Last impressions matter. You don’t want the guests to be leaving with a gift that doesn’t reflect all the hard work and effort that has been put into the rest of the evening.

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CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS AT 116 PALL MALL

Spectacular lighting, opulent decorations and flexible packages mean that planning your party will be a breeze, whether you’re celebrating with colleagues, friends or family.

Make an enquiry to find out more information, including arranging a personal tour of 116 Pall Mall.