We basically have Prince Albert and Charles Dickens to thank for the shape of the Christmas parties we still enjoy today. They understood the importance of holly and ivy bathed in candlelight, of festive food and of uplifting drinks. Here, in the spirit of their bounteousness, are our suggestions for a Christmas party with panache.

The Mixologist: House Party Bar Tenders


Xmas Party Hosting The Mixologist–bartender-hire

There is no greater treat as a host than NOT being the one to pour the drinks. Engage the services of House Party Bar Tenders and you can enjoy yourself as much as your guests will. This brilliant company will match you with the right mixologist for your event. Trust us, this is one area you mind splashing out in. Book here.

The Florist: Flowers By Flourish


Xmas Party THE FLORIST SF001-1206-e1614287611735-scaled

Flowers – or at least sprays of festive foliage – maketh the décor at a Christmas party. Flower by Flourish deliver generous bunches of eucalyptus that smell great, look Christmassy and won’t break the bank (don’t forget how prettily they dry, too). Book here.

The Food: Canape Box


Xmas Party Hosting THE FOOD Bundles_cold-and-classy

Keep things simple and stress-free by ordering in a range of mouth-watering canapes from the brilliant Canape Box. The process couldn’t be easier: choose your canapes (or opt for noe of their bundles), complete the online order form, await a call to refine and confirm the plan and then sit back until you take delivery of your chilled recyclable trays of joy. NB Canape Box has a minimum spend of £250. Order here. Order here.

The Photos: Polaroid Camera


Host Xmas Party Polaroid

A really fun way to avoid paying for a photographer is to buy a polaroid camera and encourage guests to use it liberally. A fun focus to make lasting memories. Buy here. Buy here.

The Stationer: Papier


Xmas Party Hosting Papier London Invitations

If you’re in the mood for swankier invitations than those provided by a WhatsApp or email, look no further than the chic online stationer, Papier. Their styles are seriously elegant and promise to set a sophisticated tone for your soiree. Buy here.Buy here.

The Music: Entertainment Nation





There is nothing wrong with the time-honoured Spotify and Bluetooth speaker combo but you will life the roof off your Christmas party if you lay in some pros for the music. Entertainment Nation is a godsend for this. A sort of one-stop shop for party musicians, you can hire anything through them from a band to a DJ to a soloist to a string quartet. Book here. Book here.

If All Else Fails



Failing such high-falutin ideas, remember that all people really need at Christmas is a salty snack, a perky playlist and plenty of good cheer.

By Becky Ladenburg
November 2023