Hosting the Perfect Holiday Party
Holiday season is upon us! The most wonderful time of the year. A time of gathering and celebrating with friends, family, and loved ones. A time to create memories, exchange gifts, and look forward to the new year. Whether you’re welcoming close friends or high profile guests/clients, the details matter. From the custom invitations to the embroidered napkins, to the splendid décor, to the thoughtfully curated menu. In this blog, we’ll guide you through every aspect of planning and hosting a luxurious holiday party, ensuring your event leaves a lasting impression of opulence and charm.
Set the tone with invitations. An invitation not only provides the details of your event, it sets the tone for the style of party that you plan on throwing. Brands such as Boxed Wedding Invitations (IG: @boxedweddinginvitations), Papered Wonders (IG: @paperedwonders), Ceci New York (@cecinewyork) provide services where you can personalize your invitation. Minted Luxe and Etsy offer elegant options as well. Be sure to include clear instructions on the dress code and any other thematic details. If you’re looking to go the digital route, platforms such Paperless Post provide some of the best digital platforms. PP offers a premium collection of designs that exude sophistication.
Venue. When it comes to the venue, grand ballrooms, historic estates, private mansions, or private clubs should be top priority. If you’re hosting at home, transform your residence into a space with opulent decor.
Setting the scene. When it comes to the theme, choose a concept that’s overarching. Themes such as “Winter Wonderland”, “Golden Age Glamour”, “Hollywood Glamour” , and of course the classic “Royal Black Tie”.
Décor. Bespoke elements such as glass ornaments, floral installations, and custom linens for the table settings. Brands such as Baccarat and William Yeoward can be used for crystals, glassware, and tableware. When it comes to lighting, combine the utilization of ambient lighting with candlebras, LED Uplights, and dimmed chandeliers to create a mood that is elegant and cozy. Include firepits, or powerful fireplaces for the intimacy.
Guest Experience. White glove service is essential. Hire butlers or concierges to attend to guests’ needs, such as valet parking, coat checks, hotel check-ins, and personalized cocktails on arrival.
Culinary excellence. Collaborate with a Michelin-starred chef or a James Beard award winning chef to create a seasonal, multi-course dining experience with wine pairings. Highlight gourmet touches such as truffle-infused dishes, caviar-topped canapes, or tableside flambé desserts. Also consider elevated dishes such as beef Wellington bites and lobster rolls for passed hors d’oeuvres. Be sure to include a dessert bar. Options for the dessert bar: macarons, petit fours, chocolate-dipped fruits, or you can serve an impressive croquembouche.
Entertainment. To enhance the atmosphere of elegance, feature a harpist, jazz band, or opera singer. Later in the evening, transition to a well-known DJ, or a live band. A live painter capturing the event is a unique touch. And a champagne tower will always create a lasting impression. For interactive elements, consider booking a Photo Booth with luxury props or a holiday gifting station where guests can create personalized ornaments and candles.
Specialty drinks. Create a signature holiday cocktail. See our “Signature Holiday Cocktail” blog post. Be sure to include vintage wines or curated spirits. Hire a professional mixologist or sommelier to enhance the guest experience. Greet guests with flutes of premium champagne or a signature sparkling cocktail.
Special Touches. Offer monogrammed gifts or holiday-themed items like candles, bespoke ornaments, or mini bottles of champagne. If you’re curating outdoor experiences, provide guests with blankets.
Ending the night in style. Conclude the evening with a midnight toast to the holidays, using premium champagnes (Dom Perignon, Vueve Cliquot, Louis Roederer). Present each guest with a thank you card and a small box of artisanal chocolates.