Luxury party planner Benjamin Shaw share's his top tips and absolute must-have for fabulous festive entertaining
This autumn/winter, event and party planning extraordinaire Benjamin Shaw predicts that we’re going to see a stronger embrace of the elements, so rather than considering the cooler months as a hindrance when it comes to having fun, we’ll be seeing new ways to celebrate these seasons, which is of course music to our event-loving ears.
As a professional planner with over 25 years’ experience, working with a plethora of royalty and celebs, here Benjamin share's his top tips and absolute must-have for fabulous festive entertaining.
BENJAMIN SHAW'S EXPERT TIPS ON CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINING
- What's Ben's Absolute Must-Have For Festive Entertaining?
“Champagne” he smiles. “Christmas is a great time of the year to toast what’s been achieved, and to start plotting what we want the next year to bring. And nothing says celebration than the sound of a cork popping!”
- The Devil Is In The Detail
When it comes to the details - think about how you can rework classics. Think about the garnishes in your drinks or how you present your cheese board. It’s these little details that make all the difference.
- Set The Mood
Lighting is important - warm, diffused light makes everyone look good. Cold, fluro/LED lights don’t. Enough said.
- Abundance
Always over cater so that nobody feels like they’re squabbling over the last canapé. You can always save any excess for left overs.
- Create A Refreshment Station
Set aside an area where people can help themselves to drinks. Have ice, glasses, drinks and swizzle sticks at the ready so guests feel a part of your party.
- De-clutter
Wherever you’re hosting your event, clear it out and remove all signs of mundane life, you only clean surfaces for your party to spring off.
- Farm To Plate
Everyone talks about it and that’s because it’s the best way to enjoy what you eat - freshness and seasonality are everything.
- Pop the Fizz
Champagne is a perennial favourite, and nothing says celebration than the sound of a cork popping!
For more party planning advice from luxury planner Benjamin Shaw, read our recent Spotlight interview over on TheEDIT, and you can also find his page in Toast.Life’s Little Black Book, complete with more information and contact details.