As the winter chill begins to settle in and twinkling lights adorn neighbourhoods, the season of holiday gatherings is upon us. To explore the art of throwing a memorable holiday party, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Lucy Bennett, an experienced event planner from Manchester. Lucy shared her wisdom on creating a celebration that captures the essence of the season, seamlessly blending sustainability, nostalgia, and family traditions.
Lucy Bennett’s passion for holiday celebrations is infectious. “The holiday season is a time to reconnect with loved ones and create lasting memories,” she says with a warm smile. “It’s about bringing people together in a way that’s both meaningful and joyous.” With that spirit in mind, Lucy offered seven simple yet impactful tips for hosting a holiday party that guests will cherish.
1. Embrace Sustainability with Reusable Décor
In recent years, sustainability has become a central theme in holiday celebrations. Lucy advocates for incorporating multipurpose decor that can be used year after year. “There are so many beautiful and unique items available now that aren’t just for one-time use,” she explains. From decorative paper floor trees to subtly coloured faux LED trees, these options add a touch of elegance without the environmental impact. Lucy herself favours a pink tree, which she says reflects her personal style and adds a whimsical touch to her gatherings.
2. Reimagine Your Festive Fare
Food presentation can be as delightful as the meal itself. Lucy suggests serving festive fare in elegant boxes with magnetic flip lids. “It’s like giving your guests a little gift,” she notes. “Each box can hold an individual serving, which not only looks charming but also helps with portion control.” This creative approach adds a layer of excitement as guests uncover their culinary surprises.
3. Infuse Nostalgia with Vintage Photos
Nostalgia is a powerful element during the holidays. Lucy encourages hosts to incorporate vintage photos into their decor. “Old family photos are wonderful conversation starters,” she says. Displaying these cherished memories in matching frames helps guests reminisce about holidays past. Lucy shares a personal tradition of showcasing childhood photos with Santa, which never fails to bring laughter and fond memories to the forefront.
4. Keep It Minimalist and Chic
Minimalism, Lucy observes, is both sophisticated and timeless. She often incorporates metallics and whites into her decor, creating a serene and elegant atmosphere. “I love using faux evergreen with lights strung through it,” she says. “It can spell out words like ‘joy’ or ‘peace,’ adding a personalised touch to your home.”
5. Make Earth-Friendly Serving Choices
For a more sustainable approach to serving, Lucy recommends repurposing antique glassware and china. “Instead of buying plastic serving pieces, use what you already have,” she advises. “Antique cordial glasses can be perfect for individual desserts or vegetable crudités.” This not only reduces waste but also brings a sense of history and familial connection to the table.
6. Transform Your Space with Lighting
Lighting is a powerful tool in setting the mood for any gathering. Lucy highlights the transformative effect of using patio lights or coloured uplights to create a cosy, inviting atmosphere. “Lighting can change the entire feel of a space,” she says. “Whether you’re going for a modern look or something more traditional, the right lighting can make it happen.”
7. Foster Family Connection
Finally, Lucy emphasises the importance of bringing the focus back to family. “The past few years have shown us how precious time with loved ones is,” she reflects. Including activities like a gift-wrapping station for children not only involves them in the festivities but also creates opportunities for family bonding. “Let kids paint kraft paper and use stickers or pom poms for wrapping gifts,” she suggests. “It’s a fun way for them to express their creativity.”
As our conversation drew to a close, it was clear that Lucy Bennett’s approach to holiday parties is deeply rooted in creating experiences that resonate with both tradition and innovation. Her insights remind us that the true essence of the holiday season lies in celebrating with loved ones and crafting memories that last a lifetime. So, as you plan your own holiday gathering, consider these tips to ensure a celebration filled with joy, warmth, and a touch of magic.
Sarah Dale
Be the first to comment