With summer behind us and the year winding down, Christmas is fast approaching! It’s hard to believe, but as we will be in the throes of Christmas Parties in just 2 months time, now is the perfect time to book. While prime dates might be snapped up for larger events, don’t worry—there are still plenty of options out there.
Here’s a helpful guide to make sure your festive celebration is the highlight of the year, and nothing is overlooked, but if you wanted to go straight to venue ideas, scroll the bottom for examples!
Establish Your Budget
The first step in planning any event, especially a corporate Christmas party, is setting a realistic budget. This will help you make decisions about the venue, catering, entertainment, and other important details. A good tip is to break down your budget into smaller categories, such as:
- Venue Hire
- Catering & Drinks
- Service Charge
- Entertainment
- Decorations
- Logistics & Transport
Be sure to include a contingency fund in case any unexpected costs arise.
Select Your Date
Christmas party dates get booked fast, so flexibility is key. Popular venues might be fully booked in December, but don’t let that stop you! Consider these alternatives:
- Late November celebrations: Jumpstart the festive season!
- Post-Christmas in January: Give your team something to look forward to after the holidays, there are some fantastic cost-effective options here enabling you to get more for your budget
- Daytime Events: Easier on schedules and again, can be more cost-effective, especially when considering transport home
A less traditional date can also mean more availability, fewer scheduling conflicts, and potentially lower costs.
Catering: Think Beyond the Traditional
When it comes to food, think outside the box. Traditional sit-down dinners are great, but depending on your team, you might want something more casual and interactive. Here are some catering ideas to consider:
- Buffet or food stations: A variety of choices for different tastes
- Bowl food: Perfect for a stand-up event enabling networking and social mingling
- Festive cocktail receptions: Add some fun and flavour to your event
- Specialty bars and mixologists: For those looking to make a splash!
The catering at your party can make or break the event, so make sure it’s memorable.
Entertainment: Music, Dancing, and More
No Christmas party is complete without great entertainment! From live bands to DJs spinning crowd-pleasing hits, entertainment can transform the mood of your event.
Make sure your venue supports your entertainment needs and ask for recommendations from venue managers—they often have trusted suppliers such as!
- Photo Booth, static or moving!
- Magicians, Caricatures, with personalised twists
- Singing Waiters and Dancers, such a great visual that helps breaks the ice
- or even Flame Throwers! To give it that wow factor (and warmth!)
Choose Your Venue
The venue sets the tone for your Christmas party, so it’s one of the most critical decisions. Whether you’re looking for a grand Winter Wonderland party or a casual gathering in a cozy pub, your options are endless. When comparing venues, make sure to:
- Check what’s included in the price (lighting, music, decorations, in addition to room hire, food and drinks packages)
- Be aware of any hidden costs. It’s ok to ask the venue if they think there is anything further you may need to consider
- Ask about min numbers compared with venue capacity so you have flex with your numbers
Looking for last-minute venue options in London? I’ve got some insider recommendations to ensure you find the perfect spot!
Suggested London Venues: The Stafford Hotel
If you’re looking for an elegant and magical venue for your Christmas party, The Stafford Hotel in St James’s is a top choice. With over 100 years of tradition and stunning, glittering Christmas trees, The Stafford offers a timeless festive experience.
Their bespoke Christmas packages start at £95.00 per person, providing a luxurious yet flexible option for your event. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a larger celebration, The Stafford can accommodate groups from 4 to 44 guests. Christmas Party Menus are available from 29th November until 20th December 2024, making it a perfect choice for your office’s festive celebration.
Why Choose The Stafford?
- Prime Location: Nestled in the heart of St James’s, it’s easy to access for all your guests.
- Elegant Atmosphere: The hotel’s history and holiday décor provide a warm and festive backdrop.
- Tailored Packages: Create a bespoke experience that suits your needs and budget.
Suggested Venues: Tower Bridge – High-Level Walkways
For a truly unique and dynamic Christmas party venue, look no further than the High-Level Walkways at Tower Bridge. Offering stunning, panoramic 360-degree views of London along the River Thames, this space is ideal for both drinks receptions and seated dinners.
The showstopping glass floor provides an unforgettable experience, allowing guests to see the iconic Tower Bridge from a completely new perspective, floating above the traffic and the Thames. This exclusive venue is perfect for those wanting to impress with a once-in-a-lifetime location.
Capacity:
- Dinner: Up to 120 guests
- Drinks Reception: Up to 250 guests
Seated Suggested Festive Package Includes:
- 3 Canapés
- 3-Course Menu
- Festive Drinks Package
- Table Styling
- In-House AV System
- LED Lighting
- Security & Cloakroom
- Venue Hire (minimum 80 guests)
Why Choose Tower Bridge – High-Level Walkways?
- Unique Setting: Host your event in one of London’s most iconic landmarks with breathtaking views.
- Glass Floor Experience: Wow your guests with the thrilling glass walkway, adding an exciting edge to your celebration.
- Exclusive Hire: Enjoy private access to this stunning space for the ultimate wow factor.
- Excellent Catering: Indulge yourselves with catering from Social Pantry.
Whether you’re planning a corporate Christmas dinner or a cocktail reception, the High-Level Walkways at Tower Bridge is guaranteed to be a memorable experience for all your guests.
Suggested Venues: The Montague on the Gardens
For a festive celebration that feels like a cozy winter escape, look no further than The Montague on the Gardens, a charming Georgian townhouse perfectly positioned near Covent Garden. This hidden gem is known for its Winter Lodge, open from 3rd November to 30th December, offering a magical winter wonderland experience.
Step into the warmth of the Winter Lodge and be greeted by the comforting crackle of the fireplace and the scent of freshly fallen snow. The lodge is beautifully themed as a traditional log cabin, complete with twinkling lights and the rich scent of pine, creating a serene winter paradise in the heart of London.
Why Choose The Montague on the Gardens?
- Unique Experience: The Winter Lodge transports guests to a cozy, festive retreat without leaving the city.
- Atmosphere: Twinkling lights and traditional cabin décor provide an unforgettable and intimate ambiance.
- Location: Nestled near Covent Garden, it’s conveniently located for central London guests.
Suggested Venues: The Doyle Collection
For a luxurious and varied festive experience, The Doyle Collection offers three standout hotels: The Marylebone, The Kensington, and The Bloomsbury. Each hotel is located in a charming London neighbourhood and provides a unique festive atmosphere, perfect for any type of celebration—from Thanksgiving through to New Year.
The Marylebone
Celebrate your Christmas party in style at The Marylebone, which offers multiple options for any event size. Whether you’re dining at the elegant 108 Brasserie or hosting a private event in spaces like The Number Six Suite, Blue Room, or Courtyard, the venue offers chic, modern settings for both intimate and larger gatherings. For something extra special, consider a soirée in one of the Terrace Suites, where you can enjoy stunning views of London’s landmarks.
The Bloomsbury
Known for its whimsy and charm, The Bloomsbury is the perfect spot for a fun yet elegant celebration. Host a drinks party at the glamorous Bloomsbury Club Bar, indulge in a festive afternoon tea at Dalloway Terrace, or enjoy a sophisticated dinner at The Coral Room, famous for its extensive collection of English sparkling wines. For larger events, The Queen Mary and The George V halls are available, while more intimate gatherings can take place in the cozy Chapel or Library.
The Kensington
Perfectly positioned near London’s top winter attractions like Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland and the Royal Albert Hall, The Kensington offers a warm, inviting home away from home for your festivities. You can host an intimate dinner in The Study, with a seasonal menu of locally sourced dishes, or opt for a drinks reception in the cozy, stylish K Bar.
Why Choose The Doyle Collection?
- Variety of Venues: Choose from three distinct hotels, each offering something unique and suited for all event sizes.
- Prime Locations: Whether you’re near Hyde Park, Covent Garden, or Bloomsbury, each venue offers proximity to London’s top attractions.
- Charming Atmospheres: From chic private suites to cozy bars and restaurants, The Doyle Collection offers both sophistication and festive warmth.
Suggested Venues: ETM Venues
For a corporate Christmas party that your colleagues will remember, ETM Venues offers a range of exciting and versatile spaces perfect for celebrating the holiday season, including:
- Aviary Rooftop Restaurant & Bar
- Burdock
- The Botanist Sloane Square
- The Botanist Broadgate Circle
- Chiswell Street Dining Rooms
- Marlowe Café, Bar & Restaurant
- The Jugged Hare
- Kitty Hawk
- Wagtail Rooftop Restaurant & Bar
Kitty Hawk
Host your corporate Christmas celebration at Kitty Hawk, a brand-new rooftop restaurant and bar that opened in September. Perched atop the Page 8 Hotel in the heart of London’s West End, Kitty Hawk offers a stunning setting for your event, complete with breathtaking views of the city. With a sophisticated atmosphere, Kitty Hawk is another wonderful choice for a festive office celebration.
Why Choose ETM Venues for Your Corporate Christmas Party?
- Variety of Spaces: With multiple venues available, you can choose the perfect setting that suits your team’s size and style.
- Prime Locations: Enjoy vibrant atmospheres and stunning views, especially at rooftop venues like Kitty Hawk, Avairy and Wagtail which impresses with their unique vantage points.
- Unforgettable Experiences: Each venue is tailored to create memorable moments, making your corporate Christmas party truly special.
Special Offers and Discounts
There are still some great offers for late bookings in and around London. Many venues have last-minute availability or discounted packages for corporate parties, so now is the time to secure a deal. Whether you’re after a rooftop venue, a chic ballroom or an intimate cosy setting, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Need Help Planning Your Christmas Party?
If all this planning sounds a little overwhelming, don’t worry—I’m here to help! Reach out to me at [email protected] for assistance with finding the perfect venue, entertainment, and more. Together, we’ll make this year’s office Christmas party one to remember!