Christmas guide: tips for hosting a Christmas party at home
Wondering how to host a successful Christmas party? Our planning experts share the ultimate guide to hosting a stress-free Christmas Day dinner!
It's Christmas! The season of indulgence, festive music and Santa sweaters. But the best part is spending quality time with your favorite people. If you're hosting this year, we know it can be stressful - especially if you're in charge of the big day. But don't panic. We're sharing our secrets and hacks for pulling off the best Christmas Day ever.
Get prepping for Christmas
So, it's your turn to host Christmas, and you're understandably a little nervous. You know how the phrase goes – "if you fail to plan, you're planning to fail", so you know that the secret to pulling off a stress-free Christmas day is prep! Once you've locked down the drinks and cocktails you want to serve, stock up on ingredients and make sure the non-drinkers are covered too. Our top tip is to pre-batch cocktails to save yourself time and effort. We recommend Negronis as the ultimate timesaver. Batch mix it by using an empty bottle, add 6 oz. gin, Italian aperitif, sweet vermouth and water and put it in the freezer. It's then already mixed, so all you have to do is pour over ice and garnish with orange peel on the day. It also means you can serve smaller sizes or tasters if needed!
'Tis the season to deck the halls
While there's no rule book that says you must have a theme, choosing one will definitely help make your home look more magical and, of course, impress your guests. Think about the theme you want to convey. A white winter wonderland complete with sparkles can look fresh and modern, or a traditional style with multicolored lights can look cozy and nostalgic. The key to this is remembering that you don’t need to spend hundreds on decor. Take a look at what you might already have stored away or have a look at our glassware and tablescape options for beautifully designed items that will dress up your table.
The big day has arrived
It's Christmas day and you're all prepped and ready to go. There's nothing left to do except serve up the drinks and celebrate. If you're looking for a festive drinks menu that will delight your guests throughout the day, look no further! Have a look below at some suggestions:
Arrival cocktails to serve
Wow your guests on arrival with these welcome drinks.
Winter Jewel French 75 cocktail
Kick off Christmas Day and toast to good times with this elegant riff on the classic cocktail. Pomegranates, also known as “winter jewels,” are beloved for their bold, tart flavor. When combined with Tanqueray No. Ten Gin, the result is juicy and botanical, while a healthy Champagne topping really makes this jewel sparkle.
CosNOpolitan: non-alcoholic cosmo
Enjoy a non-alcoholic alternative to the classic Cosmopolitan cocktail, starring the unique Seedlip Grove 42 spirit. This sophisticated CosNOpolitan offers herbal, blood orange and ginger notes, along with sweet cranberry juice.
Pre-dinner cocktails to serve
While guests are indulging in canapés and exchanging presents, freshen their drinks with these pre-dinner recipes.
Pimm's Royale cocktail
Thinking pink and fruity? Then the Pimm's Royale will look picture perfect.
Seedlip Spice 94 and Cola
With a warm aromatic blend of allspice, cardamom and cascarilla bark, Seedlip Spice is made for Christmas. Top with your favorite premium cola for the perfect pre-dinner drink.
Cocktails to serve during Christmas dinner
For those who aren’t partial to a glass of wine with food, we have some options that will keep guests happy all the way through dinner.
Gin cocktails
For gin, something long, fizzy and light in flavor always goes down well during a big meal - think a Tom Collins or a Vodka Soda with fresh lime to help aid digestion. Swap out the alcohol for Seedlip to keep things alcohol-free if you prefer.
Whiskey cocktails
If you're serving turkey, consider Johnnie Walker Black Label due to its delicious blend of orchard fruits and smoky undertones that complement the succulent flavor of poultry. Opt for a classic whisky and soda, or level up the wintery vibes by switching your mixer to a ginger ale. If you're looking for something with vermouth, go for a rich Manhattan which will pair perfectly with richer meats you may be serving.
Cocktails to serve after dinner
With dinner finished and guests enjoying board games, quizzes or a festive movie, thoughts inevitably turn to dessert. For those not wanting a dessert, consider serving these post-dinner cocktails as alternatives.
Peppermint Twist hot chocolate
This lovely blend of vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and hot chocolate will transport you to a winter wonderland. Add in a mini candy cane as whimsical garnish.
Baileys Chocolate on the rocks
This classic chocolate martini combines premium Ketel One Vodka with the creamy, delicious Baileys Chocolate Liqueur – made with real Belgian chocolate. Just combine, shake and garnish with flair for the perfect dessert cocktail.
And Christmas Day is served…
As you prepare to host a memorable Christmas gathering, don't forget that the drinks you serve can really set the mood. There are lots of options to choose from, like old favorites such as French 75 and Baileys on the rocks, or more unique drinks like Peppermint Twist hot chocolate. The most important thing to remember is to relax and enjoy spending time with your loved ones. Have a Merry Christmas!
The Bar Team
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