As the chilly breeze of winter begins to wrap around us, the anticipation for the holiday season grows. It’s a time when we are drawn to the warmth of gatherings, the sparkle of decorations, and the joy of celebrating with loved ones. To delve deeper into the art of hosting a memorable holiday party, I sat down with Emma Lyons, a seasoned event organiser based in London, who shared her expert tips for making this festive season truly unforgettable.
Emma, with her 15 years of experience in event management, has seen trends come and go but believes that the essence of a great holiday party remains timeless. Her insights offer a blend of traditional charm and contemporary twists, ensuring your party will be the talk of the season.
1. Embrace Sustainability and Tradition
Emma begins with a nod to sustainability, reflecting a growing trend among party hosts. “This year, it’s all about multipurpose items that you can use repeatedly,” she notes. The idea is to invest in pieces that not only serve a purpose now but will be cherished in years to come. Emma suggests opting for reusable decorations like elegant faux trees or LED-light embellished pine trees, which add a modern touch without sacrificing festive cheer.
2. Innovate with Food Presentation
Gone are the days of standard buffet spreads. Emma recommends rethinking how food is served by presenting it in individual, beautifully crafted boxes. “It’s like giving your guests a little gift to open,” she explains. This method not only adds a creative twist but also maintains hygiene and ease of service, perfect for the current times.
3. Nostalgia is the New Nostalgic
Emma has observed a surge in the desire to reconnect with the past, particularly through visual storytelling. “Dig out those old family photos and put them in matching frames,” she suggests. By creating a display of vintage holiday photographs, you provide your guests with conversation starters and a walk down memory lane.
4. Minimalism Meets Chic
In a world brimming with excess, Emma champions a minimalist approach. “The sophisticated use of metallics and whites can transform your space,” she advises. Incorporating simple yet elegant touches, like faux evergreen garlands adorned with lights or minimalist decorations, can create a serene and stylish atmosphere.
5. Get Creative with Serving Ware
Emma encourages hosts to look beyond the usual when it comes to serving food and drinks. “Think about repurposing antique glassware as serving vessels,” she says. Whether it’s using cordial glasses for desserts or showcasing your grandmother’s china for cocktails, these unique touches can evoke a sense of nostalgia and charm.
6. Set the Mood with Lighting
Creating the right ambience is crucial, and Emma highlights the power of lighting. “Patio lights, uplights, or even simple candles can transform a space,” she notes. By playing with different lighting options, you can tailor the feel of your party, whether you’re aiming for cosy warmth or modern elegance.
7. Focus on Family and Connection
Finally, Emma stresses the importance of bringing the focus back to family and connection. Setting up interactive stations, like a gift-wrapping corner for children, can engage guests of all ages. “It’s about creating memories and fostering those connections that have become even more precious,” she emphasises.
As we wrapped up our conversation, it was clear that Emma’s approach to holiday hosting is about blending the old with the new, the sustainable with the memorable. Her passion for creating meaningful experiences shines through, offering a guide for anyone looking to host a holiday party that’s both glorious and heartfelt. This season, let your gatherings be a celebration of tradition, innovation, and connection.
By Sarah Dale
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