How to Plan the Perfect Christmas Party: A Guide by Eventrent

1. Start with Your Vision

Every great event starts with a vision. Are you imagining a glamorous red-and-gold Christmas, a rustic woodland setting with candlelight, or a modern white-and-green palette?

Once you’ve chosen your look and feel, everything else — from your venue setup to your hire items — will fall into place.

Pro Tip: Create a Pinterest board or mood board to help visualise your theme and share it with the team at Eventrent, so we can help you bring your vision to life.

2. Choose the Perfect Venue
Your venue sets the tone for the whole event. For many, a marquee is the perfect solution — flexible, weatherproof, and able to transform into any style of Christmas celebration.

When planning your layout, think about:

• Space for dining and dancing
• Access for catering or food trucks
• Lighting and power needs
• Flow between bar, seating, and mingling areas

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure what size marquee or layout works best, our team can help you plan your setup to make the most of your space. Request a copy of our Ultimate Marquee Guide to help you work through this.

3. Styling That Wows

Styling is where the festive spirit really comes to life. Think lush table settings, beautiful lighting, and those extra details that make guests stop and smile.

Some of our favourite Christmas styling ideas include:

• Tablescapes: Linen runners, greenery, candles, and crystal glassware for a refined, festive look.
• Lighting: Fairy lights, festoon strings, and lanterns to create warmth and atmosphere.
• Feature pieces: Styled bar areas, statement centrepieces, or a photo backdrop for those must-have snaps.

Need help bringing it all together? Our hire collection includes everything from tables and chairs to lighting, bar setups, and decorative accents — so you can create the perfect festive setting with ease. Book a no obligation consultation here.

4. Food, Drinks & Festive Cheer

No Christmas party is complete without great food and flowing drinks. Decide whether you’re going for a relaxed grazing table, a formal dinner, or cocktail-style service — then plan your hire items around it.

Include a self-serve bar or drinks station with glassware and styling touches to keep things easy and elegant. And don’t forget to stock up on festive favourites like sparkling wine, mulled cider, and mocktails for the non-drinkers.

5. Create Atmosphere with Music & Entertainment

Set the tone with music that fits your crowd. Whether it’s a curated playlist, a DJ, or a live band, music helps bring people together and keep the energy high.

Add some fun extras too — think Secret Santa, photo booths, or Christmas trivia. Little touches like these turn an event into an experience.

6. Plan the Flow

A well-planned schedule keeps things running smoothly. Consider:

• Guest arrival and welcome drinks
• When food will be served
• Speeches or games
• Dancing or after-dinner entertainment

If it’s a corporate event, include a short thank-you toast or awards moment — it’s a great way to acknowledge your team and wrap up the year on a high note.

7. Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches

It’s often the small details that guests remember most. Add:

• A welcome sign or festive message board
• Candlelight or fairy lights for ambience
• A small takeaway treat, like a cookie or ornament

Let’s Make It Merry

Planning a Christmas party shouldn’t feel stressful — it should be exciting! With the right hire items, styling, and a clear plan, you can host a celebration that’s both effortless and unforgettable.

At Eventrent we’re here to help with everything from marquee layouts and furniture hire to styling inspiration and setup on the day.

Let’s make your Christmas celebration one to remember — get in touch today to start planning your perfect festive event.