SHOW TRIP BUILDER 
SHOW TRIP BUILDER
SHOW TRIP BUILDER
Office Christmas Party Tender
Office Christmas Tender
We’re opening a tender process for the application to build a significant bespoke website with an integrated CRM and event booking engine with the capability to consume external data sets through a custom developed API(s). This exciting new platform will offer extensive functionality to a wide range of supplier partners and party bookers. The project will deliver a seamless, feature rich and easy to use booking platform that will connect people to their ideal Christmas party making it quick and simple to view and book Christmas Parties online.
Interested parties should first complete the Expression of Interest (EOI) form below (closing date for receipt of completed EOI forms: Wednesday 9th March 2022).
On receipt of a satisfactorily completed EOI form, we will send you a Non-Disclosure Agreement to complete followed by a Business Requirements Specification and full details of the application and selection process.
Please note that award of this project is dependent on the receipt of grant funding and this tender process will follow the National Guidance set out in the ESIF National Procurement Requirements (ESIF-GN-1-001).
All tenders should be quoted in Pounds Sterling, with invoicing and payment also to be made in Pounds Sterling.
Full details will be released to you once you have completed the form below.
You must select Y for the multiple choice section below, or have an exceptional answer why you did not.
Please do not apply if you do not have extensive experience backed up by case studies displaying work within the travel and events market. Or an exceptional reason why we should consider you.
Timescale: 8-10 months
Closing date for completed tender applications: Wednesday 23rd March 2022
Successful supplier notified: Wednesday 30th March 2022
Subject to confirmation of grant funding, development is scheduled to commence in April 2022 with launch of the new platform scheduled for January 2023. Please do not apply if you do not have the capacity to deliver to these timescales.
10 of the best Christmas party theme ideas
10 of the best Christmas party theme ideas
Who wants a Christmas party that comprises of a few glasses of cava and cold sausage rolls in your local hall? No one. Especially when there are so many brilliant Christmas party theme ideas out there. That’s why we’ve put together ten of our favourites that will have your guests letting their hair down and talking about the party for months to come – for all the right reasons…
A masquerade ball
There’s something magical about a Christmas party theme that means you don’t have to stare at the same faces of your colleagues you have to look at every day! Whirl your guests back in time to a lavish and mysterious Masquerade ball with an experience they won’t forget in a hurry. Tell everyone to dress up in the appropriate attire, then have them greeted at the venue with a glass of bubbly and live band while they wait for dinner. Serve an appropriately themed feast and watch as masks are removed, and true identities revealed! Once the meal has been finished, have your guests slip their masks back on and whirl straight to the dance floor to dance the rest of the night away.
A circus theme
Christmas is a time for fun and for releasing your inner child, so why not play on this with an exuberant circus themed Christmas party. Decorate your venue to look like a circus ring, or find a venue which is already complete with ringmaster to welcome you and your guests and guide you to the circus arena. Have your team nibble on circus themed canapes and cocktails before a full seated dinner which watching an amazing show of circus acts. Why not invest in a classic retro sweets or popcorn stand for guests to dip into throughout the evening, and you could also have extras such as a characterturist, juggler, mime or magician to keep things entertaining into the evening.
You may be interested in: 30 Alternative Christmas Party Ideas
Apres Ski
Let’s face it, nothing can quite beat the festive feel of Apres ski and while taking the whole company to the slopes is probably a bit expensive, you can still bring the feel of the slopes to the party. Decorate the venue with traditional chalet accoutrements such as furry rugs, wooden furnishing and old skis – you could even go one step further and hire a venue specifically for Apres Ski parties complete with log cabins, cosy throws and trees covered in snow. Make sure to organise an outdoor log fire surrounded by benches where you can sit round and drink boozy hot chocolate or mulled wine and toast marshmallows under the stars. Drink ski-themed cocktails and dance until the early hours to a DJ who will play a host of festive themed tunes that will have you believing you really have joined an Apres Ski of the mountains.
Reverse Christmas in July
As many in different industries know, July is the time to start planning festive content – hence the name Christmas in July. So why not flip it on its head with a summer themed party? Have the venue transformed into a total beach paradise complete with deckchairs, beach balls and parasols, an ice cream van, paddling pools and an array of summery cocktails. Why not serve up an indoor BBQ and have a competition to see who can wear the most outrageous Hawaiian shirt? Hire a photobooth and have all summer themed props such as sun hats, sunglasses, arm bands and pool floats. You could have the DJ play an entire summer themed set too!
Casino Royale
There’s nothing like a Casino Royale themed Christmas party to get your guests excited and an excuse to dress to the nines. The men will don their finest penguin suits, while the ladies slip into sparkling cocktail dresses. Be handed a glass of bubbly (or a martini!) as you arrive to a glitzy venue, before sitting down to a delicious three course dinner. Following this, your guests can take to the tables for a turn on a fun casino with the chance to win a number of fun prizes, before making their way to the dance floor to dance the night away.
Chocolate Factory
Relive your childhood memories of being let loose in a sweet shop with a chocolate themed Christmas party. A perfect mix of nostalgic fun and entertainment, this is the ideal way to get into the festive spirit and have a party your guests will never forget. Begin the evening by walking through famous Wonka gates, before entering a sweet shop paradise complete with colourful giant candy canes. Have your guests enjoy a chocolate-themed cocktail before taking their seats for a themed dinner where live music will be played (and perhaps even an appearance by an oompa loompa or two!) When plates are cleared, why not direct your guests to a chocolate fountain or retro sweet stand before letting loose on the dance floor until the early hours.
Murder Mystery party
Think Cluedo on a big scale for this Christmas party theme idea! At a murder mystery party, members of the team are each given their own identity at the beginning of the night. They are then to play this character throughout the evening – props and costumes help make this one truly special! The basis of the story is that someone at the party has been murdered and the murderer is a member of the team. It’s up to you all to try and figure out how the murderer is, while the culprit has to evade suspicion! You could have themed cocktails and a three-course meal to enjoy all while trying to discover the main suspect…
Check out: London’s top Christmas party venues
Narnia Themed Party
A Narnia themed party is a great one for really getting into the spirit of the theme. Step through a coat-filled wardrobe to enter a magical world complete with white Christmas trees, Aslan and castle scene silhouettes, props, live music and faun stilt performers to do a meet and greet. Enjoy cocktails before a delicious three course dinner surrounded by the spectacular decor. There could be competitions for the best dressed, a quiz, or live music to accompany while you eat. Round the night off with DJ and a disco before heading off in your carriages at the end of the evening.
Winter Wonderland Christmas Party
For an extra special twist on the classic Christmas party, why not hold a Winter Wonderland themed party? Have your guests arrive to the venue complete with alpine backdrops, fake snow, Christmas trees and twinkly lights – the perfect set up for a night of festivities. Greet them with a mug of mulled wine and a live band on arrival, before having them sit for a delicious three course Christmas dinner. Have everyone dress in white or festive colours and let them dance the night away to a live band or a DJ. Be sure to get a photobooth with Christmassy themed props to remember the night by!
80s themed party
This Christmas party theme idea is one guaranteed to get everyone down and footloose and enjoying themselves! A real retro treat, have your guests dress up in appropriate 80s attire, with cocktails such as a Long Island Iced Tea or peach schnapps to greet them. Enjoy themed table settings, a red-carpet entrance and fun photo booths complete with props, before setting down to a three course meal. During the night make use of a multi-coloured dance floor while boogying along to the likes of Madonna, Fame and Duran Duran under a glittering disco ball. You can run eighties quizzes or challenges, with prizes such as for the best dressed or highest quiz score. It’s a night that everyone is sure to love!
The best Christmas party outfits of the year
While clothes shopping is fun all year round, there is nothing like the excuse of a party to update your wardrobe and what better shindig to do so, than your Christmas party? The festive season is the best reason to imbue your party wear with some serious jazz and sparkle, where you can wear outfits that any other time of year can be deemed garish or over the top. But hey, it’s Christmas so why not go all out? After all, you’ll want to be dancing your way through the season in real style. It can however, be a bit of a minefield when it comes to choosing just what outfit you want. This is why we have put together some of our top Christmas party outfits.
The statement dress
This has to be top of our list, because it’s such a popular festive choice. Be sure to think carefully of your outfit and the theme of the party before choosing which sort of dress you would like. If you are going to opt for something sparkly (which is a great choice for the festive season) remember it can be a very glamorous choice. Think about what sort of shoes you will wear – remember you can dress it down with a pair of fancy flats – and the jewellery too. There are also a lot of other dress styles to consider and remember what sort of look you want to pull off. For example, a plunge neckline can be great for when you’re heading to a party with friends, but might be inappropriate for a work Christmas do – same as the length of the dress. Remember if you are going to be dancing you don’t want anything too short or that might ride up when you sit down! There are plenty of styles from floor length to midi to short, so no matter your body shape you’ll find a dress you can pull off!
Remember the colour scheme
For Christmas party outfits try to think of a similar colour scheme to the traditional décor to create a season appropriate look. For this, think silvers, golds, greens and reds – and a traditional LBD never goes amiss!
Play around with formal
Dresses and skirts not your thing, but the Christmas party is still a formal affair? There are plenty of jumpsuits out there which can be both formal without being too feminine. Or why not go for a trouser suit with heels and statement jewellery? There are a lot of ways you can play around with the formal dress code, so why not make the most of it!
Don’t forget the skirt and top combo
While many will be tempted to opt for a statement dress for their Christmas party outfits, don’t forget you can equally make your own great outfit combination with a skirt and top ensemble. This is also a great way if you like to be creative to put together something a bit different and also to use items you already have in your wardrobe without looking like you’re simply re-using last years choice.
Look for ruffles
Look out for ruffles as they are a great way to instantly smarten up a piece of clothing – plus they are wearable all year round so you know you are getting your moneys worth. A romantic blouse is always an easy go to, wear with a pencil skirt and a small pair of heels for an effortless Christmas party outfit. Ruffles can be more extravagant, or simply on the cuffs of your sleeves, hem of your dress or neckline.
You might also like: Help understanding a Christmas dress-code
Don’t forget the accessories
Once you have the perfect piece of clothing sorted, it can be easy to leave accessories such as your jewellery, bag and shoes until last minute. This is never a good idea as while the dress may look perfect, if you don’t have a dainty clutch to accompany it, it can totally ruin the effect. The same as if you have a relatively simple look, you will probably want to jazz it up with some statement jewellery pieces – something which can be a nightmare to find last minute! Think of what you will pair with your clothes on the night of your Christmas party to avoid any last minute dashes to the shop. It is also a good idea when purchasing your new outfit to remember that accessories are a great way to change the vibe of your clothing, so if you think something looks nice, but a little drab, it is easy enough to add some vava-voom with a few accessories and a pair of heels!
Alternative Christmas Party Ideas
Unusual work Christmas party ideas your employees will love
Looking to celebrate your office Christmas party but want something a little different? We’ve compiled a list of our favourite alternative venues in London that you can celebrate your Christmas-do at. From weird and wacky bars to stand-alone event spaces with unusual themes, London is the home to 1000’s of Christmas party spaces so we’ve listed just a few that really stand out this year.
1) London Aquarium
The Aquarium is one of London’s most popular venues and they are now hosting a party under the sea! As you walk into the Sea Life Centre you will be greeted with a glass of fizz and some interactive divers that can communicate with your guests with special boards! You can then venture through the experience and then dine with the fishes in the main hall.
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: | Price from: £80+VAT pp
2) Bat & Ball
Located at Westfield Stratford, Bat & Ball is a quirky bar filled with ping pong tables which is ideal for groups looking for a more casual event than a formal sit-down dinner. The catering team at Bat & Ball can serve buffet dinners for groups up to 550 and the open space serves as an ideal place for a speech, award ceremony and toasts. As the night progresses the team can create space for a dance floor and the tables can be transformed into beer-pong arenas!
Shared parties: ✘ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 550 | Price from: £20.00+VAT pp
3) Alcotraz
Inspired by Hollywood Movies that have brought to life America’s most infamous prison, Alcotraz is London’s first immersive theatrical cocktail bar. From the orange jumpsuits upon entrance, to the real metallic cells, Alcotraz becomes the perfect backdrop to enjoy a drink within an epic yet intimate environment. Guests will be immersed into a prison setting where they smuggle alcohol past the guards and the prison officials can create some devishly good cocktails throughout the evening. Alcotraz is one of London’s most unique Christmas parties this year!
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 50 | POA
4) Winterville
If a traditional seated meal is what you are after then Winterville is not for you! Located on Clapham Common the Winterville Street Feast will be celebrating Christmas throughout December with a variety of different entertainment! From American whiskey bars, skating rinks and fairground rides this Winter Wonderland serves as an ideal setting for a unique Christmas party. You can hire private tents within the park that will have a private bar and heaters (of course) inside which serves as a base for the evening. Guests will then be given food tokens to spend on different street food stalls throughout the evening.
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 4000 | POA
5) The Great British Bakery Off
The Great British bakery off is a stunning corporate activity that can host smaller groups in true Bake Off fashion. You will be split into teams and given a couple of recipes to follow and once the bakes are out of the office the judging commences! Typically our kitchens will provide free-flowing alcohol throughout the event and can also provide light lunches and dinners to enjoy whilst the bakes are in the oven.
Shared parties: ✘ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 4000 | POA
6) Murder Mystery Evenings
As news of a murder sweeps across the hall drama unfolds while you and your guests enjoy a delicious 3 course meal. Upon arrival you will be greeted with a welcome drink and then our actors will take to the stage before dinner and in between each course. If you have a private group the team can incorporate members of your party into the act and then each table will have to decide at the end of the meal who the murderer was! The murder mysteries are a fabulous way of hosting a traditional seated meal with a tongue & cheek twist!
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 200| Price from: £65.00+VAT pp
7) London Zoo
If you want something completely out-of-the-ordinary then ZSL London Zoo can throw a wacky Christmas party like no other! Your lavish evening begins at our fairy-lit entrance, prosecco is served whilst admiring the animals in our fascinating Animal Houses and you can even experience a close encounter with one of our friendliest residents (and their keeper). Then treat your guests with a choice of creative, festive menus in one of our beautifully decorated rooms.
Shared parties: ✘ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 700 | POA
8) Swingers
Swingers is a private crazy golf course located in London’s West End or City Central. You can hire the venue as a whole or just certain areas for a truly competitive Christmas party idea. The kitchens can supply mouth-watering street food and the bar staff can supply unique cocktails to enjoy whilst out on the course! Whilst guests are waiting for their tee-off they can relax in one of the lounge areas or cocktail bars! The venue also has nightly DJ’s for when the competition is over!
Shared parties: ✘ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 500 | POA
9) The Natural History Museum
Dine with the dinosaurs in London’s most famous museum! Made up of multiple spaces and reception areas the Natural History Museum can play host to all sorts of Christmas parties, from seated dinner-dances to fossil-fueled drinks receptions! Hintze Hall is the highlight area which can be transformed into a great dining hall under the skeleton of a magnificent blue whale.
Shared parties: ✘ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 3000| POA
10) Steam Dreams
Looking for something different to do for your office Christmas party this year then look no further. Steam Dreams Rail Co are offering unique packages on one of 8 different Christmas Steam trains travelling from various destinations in London and the South East to some of the most exciting Christmas markets with an eclectic array of gifts to inspire even the most hardened shopper! Alternatively you can visit a selection of stunning Churches and Cathedrals which will host some beautiful Carol services exclusively for Steam Dreams passengers. With various price brackets and choices of dining or non-dining there is something for everyone as you are whisked away for magical day out by steam train. You can book a whole carriage or just a table for 4.
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 64 | Price from: £109.00+VAT pp
11) City Treasure Hunts
If you need a great idea for a day out where everyone has an active role in the activities success, then an organised treasure hunt is perfect! London treasure hunts offer a wealth of opportunities, with so many landmarks, unique and historic buildings and quirky avenues, a London Treasure Hunt is not only great fun but an excellent team builder. A treasure hunt is the ideal way to get the team out of the office in the day and bonding, we can tailor the hunt to end in a bar or restaurant where you can enjoy a dinner or a few drinks afterwards.
Shared parties: ✘ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: N/A | Price from: £20.00+VAT pp
12) Lucky Voice
Lucky Voice can host private events where you take over the entire venue or semi-private parties where you have private rooms but share a communal area with other groups. Each room is fitted with a state of the art karaoke machine and seating area so your group can enjoy the show with some drinks and nibbles!
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 150 | POA
13) Cutty Sark
The Cutty Sark is one of the world’s most famous ships and is the last surviving tea clipper, the fastest and greatest of her time. She stands as a glorious monument to the age of sail and to all those who lost their lives in the merchant service. Situated on the shore of the mighty Thames River the ship provides commanding views over Canary Wharf and the City of London. Underneath the dry berth is one of London’s most versatile dining areas, whilst you dine and dance you will be forever dropping your jaw at the shear amazement of the venue!
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 450 | Price from: £95.83 +VAT pp
14) London Dungeons
There aren’t many more Christmas parties that are more alternative than the London Dungeons! Telling the story of some of London’s most infamous moments in history, the London Dungeon is a themed, scarily fun, unique & intimate dinner venue. Starting off, you’ll be welcomed into the Palace to enjoy a delicious welcome drink with a cast of talented actors taking you on an immersive theatre tour of 40 minutes through London’s darkest history. You’ll meet infamous characters such as Jack the Ripper, Mrs Lovett in her Pie shop and Sweeny Todd for a cheeky haircut! Afterwards, you’ll be welcomed into our 18th century themed pub, The Tavern, for some traditional pub grub, cheerful drinks and our resident DJ playing the ultimate party tunes!
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 150 | Price from: £80.00 +VAT pp
15) The Greatest Show!
This year in Bloomsbury, London a spectacular extravaganza of circus wonders comes to town! Marvel as the mesmerizing entertainment performs overhead whilst you feast on a delicious 3 course meal, before enjoying all that The Greatest Show has to offer – a sparkling reception, amazing acts and a party to remember.
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 800 | Price from: £65 +VAT pp
16) The Tower of London
There are only a few more buildings in the world more famous than the Tower of London. In the grounds is a temporary pavilion that is created each year to play home to fabulous Christmas parties throughout December. An exclusive destination within the North Moat, The Pavilion is ideal for those looking for a touch of glamour and sparkle to their party.
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 700 | Price from: £115.00 +VAT pp
17) Medieval Banquet
Located just 5 minutes from the Tower of London are the Ivory Vaults, based in the cellars of St Katharine’s Docks. This evening will take you on a journey complete with minstrels and jesters, acrobats and dragons. Shout for your Wench or dance with a unicorn but come ready to eat a five course banquet with drinks to finish the event with dancing till late.
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 450 | Price from: £41.67 +VAT pp
18) The Apprentice Tasks
If you are trying to steer completely away from the traditional Christmas party and would rather organise a team-building event instead then the Apprentice games is the perfect alternative! As guests enter the ‘Boardroom’ they know that only high performance teams will succeed! For the next few hours their feet will not touch the ground as back to back assignments test their ambition, business flair and wits to the full! Fluttering eyelids and flattering remarks won’t impress our business tycoon, who will rage against shoddy workmanship,
Shared parties: ✘ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: N/A | POA
19) Dinerama
Winter at Dinerama becomes full of Christmas market and festival vibes; the venue is roofed and winter-proofed so is toasty and warm with log-burning fires throughout the festive season. Once a former bullion truck yard, in the heart of Shoreditch Dinerama is a great festive party venue split over two-levels, has a 1,000 capacity, creating the ultimate Christmas party playground.
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 1000 | POA
20) Madame Tussauds
If you are searching for an alternative Christmas party, look no further than Madame Tussauds. Arrive for your Xmas Party at one of the most famous venues in the world. Mingle with A-List celebs including the Beckhams, Beyonce, J-Lo, the Kardashians and Brad Pitt at this star-studded event. Whilst enjoying drinks, you can pose for a few pictures with your favourite celebrities. As the party gets going the incredibly life-like waxworks seem to come alive and catch you by surprise as you notice more and more famous faces. The illusion is complete, you are at a party for the rich and famous!
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 350 | Price from: £82.50 +VAT pp
21) Shaka Zulu
Shaka Zulu is a themed restaurant, bar and night club in Camden. Its original features are enhanced with its fabulous furnishings to make sure your guests have a “write home about” first impression. Enjoy an excellent meal and then move onto the club for the after party later on in the evening! This venue also hosts themed nights with a collection of entertainment and shows to watch throughout the evening.
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 350 | Price from: £82.50 +VAT pp
22) Moonshine Saloon
Moonshine Saloon, combining immersive theatre with a world-class cocktail drinking experience, transports all guests to the rugged American West on the promise of making a fortune in an illicit moonshine smuggling operation at the top of its game. Outlaws must bring their own liquor to join the gang and enter the multi-room environment of Cold Water.
First stop is a visit to the local tailor to ensure you look the part and don’t attract the wrong type of attention from the local Sheriff. With the right togs and Stetson, you’re ready to handover your hidden liquor to Clyde and enjoy bespoke, delicious cocktails that are expertly prepared by a world-class team of barkeeps. While in the West, outlaws can try their luck at card or dice games, visit the General Store or perhaps be lucky enough to be invited into the notorious Moonshine Distillery.
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 80| POA
23) Glittervault
If you would rather get up and dance than have a seated dinner then the Glittervault is the ideal option for your office Christmas party. Take a dive into our world of elite live music, top London DJs and the hottest world class acts on the scene right now. Contemporary laser shows, exclusive dance acts combined with sensational Street Food cuisine. Without doubt Central London’s finest party atmosphere.
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 300 | POA
24) Hire a private cinema
The Everyman cinema is available for private hire through December for unique Christmas parties! The cinema is full with a mixture of sofas and comfortable arm chairs to relax and watch the movie in and afterwards there is a super chic retro-feel bar serving amazing cocktails!
Shared parties: ✘ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 109 | POA
25) Skylight at Tobacco Dock
Our stunning rooftop bar affords far-reaching views of the city skyline and is home to London’s only rooftop ice rink. Sip on festive cocktails, relax in an igloo, feast on delicious street food and take a spin on the ice!
Shared parties: ✘ | Private parties: ✔ | POA
26) Somerset House
Host your Christmas festivity at one of the city’s most spectacular and well-loved venues, Somerset House. On arrival, your guests will be met by the ultimate Christmas backdrop. Entering through the striking stone arches, they will be greeted by Somerset House’s spectacular ice rink and soaring Christmas tree. Hire the ice rink out to kick off your evening and then dine in a beautiful venue with ties leading back to 1776.
Shared parties: ✘ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 300| POA
27) Billingsgate Vaults
Every year, Billingsgate Vaults host a themed Christmas party with award winning caterers and a stunning production set. In 2019 the venue hosted a Christmas night by order of the Peaky Blinders! Head back in time to experience the aftermath of the Great War and doff your caps with live entertainment in an exceptional party venue.
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 600| Price from: £115.00+VAT pp
28) Freemasons Hall
Experience at the most iconic art-deco building in the Heart of central London. This amazing grade II listed Venue is available for exclusive events this December and plays host to the Gatsby Club! It’s the roaring twenties – the era of prohibition. A live jazz band will perform in the gallery Suite whilst you and your fellow flappers And dappers dance the Charleston Until the small hours.
Shared parties: ✘ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: 1450 | POA
29) Escape Rooms
Looking for a thought-provoking challenge for your special event? Escape rooms are a new form of interactive and intuitive puzzle in which you are locked in some sort of scenario with only your wits to help you escape. You will be split into smaller teams and the team that solves the puzzle the quickest wins!
Shared parties: ✘ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: N/A | Price from: £25.00 +VAT pp
30) Hilton Tower of London
Although the a hotel dinner-dance is probably what you are trying to avoid by reading an article on alternative Christmas party ideas, this year the Hilton is throwing a magnificent themed party night! Dance to some Motown classics or experience the glitz and glamour of a Hollywood casino night!
Shared parties: ✔ | Private parties: ✔ | Capacity: N/A | Price from: £120.00 +VAT pp
An Experts Guide To Planning Your Christmas Work Do
We know what you’re thinking. It’s August, Autumn hasn’t even hit yet and I’m in the middle of the Summer rush, why would I even to begin to think (or have the time for that matter!) to plan a Christmas party for my employees?
The weather may not yet have plummeted, but now is the perfect time to start putting plans in place to thank all of your employees for all of their hard work this year.
But where to start? Here are our top ten tips to help guide you through the fun (and considerations) behind planning your Christmas office celebrations.
Set the date
There are only a limited number of Friday/Saturday dates from mid-November through to near-end December, so pick one and stick to it.
Consider your budget
Perhaps the most important element to your event, the budget will determine elements such as the food, entertainment and even any potential theming. Always communicate with your party planner (if applicable) so that they can manage expectations to create the best night possible!
Confirm the numbers
Send an email around the office letting your employees know the proposed date. Ask them to RSVP within a week so that you can move on to…
Choosing the perfect party venue
Do you want to venture out of stay close to home? If you’re considering a party venue that is a drive away, you may want to check that they have overnight accommodation, especially once the mulled wine gets flowing!
TIP: Don’t have time for a night time event? Why not organise a Christmas lunch instead! Many venues offer Christmas lunch packages to suit all party sizes and can be just as fun!
Shared or Exclusive?
Shared parties come with the fantastic opportunity to mix with groups from other companies, allowing you to benefit from the high end production and entertainment of a big event, whereas choosing an Exclusive Christmas party can be as simple or extravagant as you wish, giving you complete control over your own event.
Theming
Looking to blow your colleagues away? A themed Christmas party may be the way to go and are extremely high in demand for 2014. From Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Winter Wonderland all the way through to Viva Las Vegas, Office Christmas has a theme for everyone. More info here.
Entertainment
DJ and Disco, live music, magicians, dancers, awards ceremonies, stilt walkers – there are so many options to choose from! To build a truly bespoke Christmas party, check out our Party Planner tool here.
Food and Drink
How would you like the party food to be served? Three-course meals may be perfect for some, but there are other options such as Buffet or bowl food to take advantage of.Photographers, goody bags and party games can also be a great way to keep the festive party spirit going!
Check any dietary requirements within your team and then send the menu to them via email. As for drink options, you will have the option of preparing a bar tab or perhaps arranging drink vouchers, choose what is best for your audience.
Putting the finishing touches
If you’re going to a themed party, props can be the perfect way to make your office Christmas party a night to remember.
Have fun!
Corporate Christmas parties are a great way to create unity within your business. This is especially beneficial if your company operates under a number of different departments. Just remember the number one rule….no photos after 10 pm!
Need help organising the perfect bespoke Christmas party for your team? Office Christmas is always on hand to help. Just drop us an email via or call 01273 856001.
Office Christmas Bakes
The days are definitely getting cooler, the John Lewis advert is on telly, and the phones are ringing off the hook here at Office Christmas. Aside from crawling under our duvets and hibernating until Easter, there’s no way to deny it; Christmas is here. We’ve put together a few Christmas bake ideas to help you get your office into the festive spirit.
As things can get so hectic around Christmas time, we think that bringing in a few homemade treats can really brighten up your colleagues’ day. Whatever you decide to make, there’s one sure-fire pre-bake method to follow to ensure your festive delights really taste the reindeer’s baubles:
1. Turn on radio and switch to any station shamelessly playing Christmas music.
2. Take a large glass.
3. Add wine.
4. Taste.
5. Smile.
Festive Sausage Rolls
Ingredients
375g Ready-Roll Puff Pastry
1 Beaten Egg
450g Good Quality Pork Sausages
30g Chopped Dried Cranberries
Zest of 1 Orange
6 Sage Leaves, Finely Chopped
Plain Flour for Dusting
Method
1. Preheat the oven to 220°c/ Gas Mark 7/ 200°c Fan.
2. Place the puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface and roll out a little. Slice the pastry lengthways so that you have two long strips.
3. Remove the sausage meat from their skins and add to a bowl. Mix in the cranberries, orange zest and sage leaves until well combined.
4. Halve the sausage mixture and form into a long sausage shape on one half of the pastry. Brush egg on one side of the pastry and fold over the mixture, ensuring that it overlaps the other side. Repeat with the other strip of pastry.
5. Cut each long roll into 6 different pieces and gently pinch the edges to avoid any sausage over-hang. Move to a tray covered with a non-stick baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and allow to cool before moving to a tin.
7. Take to work and share with only the Merriest of Meat-eaters.
Classic Mince Pies
Ingredients
225g Cold Diced Butter
350g Plain Flour
100g Caster Sugar
Pinch of Salt
280g Mincemeat
1 Small Egg
Icing Sugar to Dust
Method
1. Sift plain flour into a large mixing bowl. Add diced butter and rub together.
2. Add caster sugar and salt and mix until well combined. Form a ball, turn out and knead briefly.
3. Preheat the oven to 200°c/ Gas Mark 6/ 180°c Fan.
4. Line a tin with walnut-sized balls of pastry and push down gently to make a pie shape, leaving some aside for the lids. Spoon mincemeat into each of the pies.
5. Take slightly larger balls of the pastry and flatten the lids. Gently seal the pies. Brush the tops with beaten egg.
6. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and leave to cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack. When cooled put in a tin and dust with icing sugar.
7. Take to work and make someone’s day.
Gingerbread Christmas Tree
Ingredients
500g Plain Flour
1tsp Baking Powder
1tsp Bicarbonate of Soda
3tsp Ground Ginger
½tsp Ground Cardamom
150g Unsalted Butter
175g Dark Brown Sugar
150g Honey
1 Whole Egg & 1 Egg White
240g Icing Sugar (Plus more for dusting)
Edible Silver Balls to Decorate
Method
1. Preheat the oven to 180°c/ Gas Mark 4/ 160°c Fan.
2. Sift the flour, bicarbonate of soda, baking powder, spices and a pinch of salt into a bowl and put aside.
3. Beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the honey and whole egg. Gently beat in the dry ingredients until the mixture comes together. Divide in half, wrap separately in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Trace 19cm, 15cm, and 10cm stars onto cardboard and cut out. For 7.5cm and 4.5cm stars use cutters. Roll out the dough halves between baking paper until 4mm thick. Using the star templates and 7.5cm cutter, cut out 3 stars of each size from the dough. Using a 4.5cm cutter, cut as many stars as possible from the remaining dough. (However fiddly this may sound, just ensure you have gingerbread stars of progressively smaller sizes.)
5. Place the stars of the same size on a baking sheet lined tray, around 3cm apart. Larger stars need to be baked for around 8-10 minutes, smaller stars for less; perfect stars should be deep golden in colour.
6. While your gingerbread is cooling, make the icing by adding the icing sugar bit by bit to the egg white until combined.
7. Stack the largest stars at offset angles, placing 2-3 4.5cm stars in between. Glue each layer with icing. Continue stacking in decreasing size until all 7.5cm stars are used. Finish with on 4.5cm star flat and a second one upright.
8. Decorate the points of your gingerbread tree with the rest of the icing and edible silver balls. Leave to set for around an hour and dust with icing sugar.
9. Take to the office, place on the side, admire for around 5 minutes and devour.
Christmas Cocktail Recipes
Get into the Christmas ‘spirit’ with a delicious Christmas cocktail. Here are some of the Office Christmas team’s favourite Christmas cocktail recipes, one for each day of Christmas!
We hope you enjoy tasting these delicious Christmas beverages. If you have a go at making any yourself we’d love to hear how you do. Send us your pics.
1. Christmas Grinch
A delicious green coloured cocktail that looks terrifying but tastes delightful! Add a cherry garnish for added Christmassy colour.
You’ll need:
- 50ml Midori
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp sugar
- Maraschino cherry for garnish
- Crushed ice
How to make your Christmas cocktail:
- Add all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker
- Shake well for at least 1 minute
- Strain into a chilled martini glass
2. Mulled Wine with a Twist!
With a large helping of cranberry juice, this is a great recipe for enjoying the delicious taste of mulled wine whilst avoiding a terrible hangover.
You’ll need:
- 1 bottle red wine
- 500ml of cranberry juice
- 1 orange, halved
- 60g demerara sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Grated nutmeg
How to make your Christmas cocktail:
- Put the wine and cranberry juice in a saucepan with the orange, sugar, and the spices.
- Heat gently until the sugar has dissolved. Taste to see if you want the wine sweeter, and add more sugar to taste.
- Strain into heatproof glasses and serve at once.
3. The White Christmas
You may well recognise this recipe as the famous ‘White Russian’, add white chocolate instead of dark to complete the snowy feel of this delicious after dinner treat.
You’ll need:
- 50ml Vodka
- 25ml Kahlua
- 25ml cream
- 50ml Milk
- 25g of grated white chocolate
- Crushed ice
How to make your Christmas cocktail:
- Add half the ice and all the other ingredients apart from the chocolate into a cocktail shaker
- Shake well for at least 1 minute
- Pour into a large cocktail glass over the rest of the ice
4. The Poinsettia
For chic sophistication at your Christmas party create a delicious Champagne cocktail reflecting the colours of this beautiful Christmas plant.
You’ll need:
- 75ml of Champagne
- 25ml of triple sec
- 75ml of cranberry juice
How to make your Christmas cocktail:
- Chill the Champagne and cranberry juice
- Pour the ingredients into a fluted Champagne glass
- Stir gently
5. Christmas Hopper
This is the traditional ‘Grasshopper’ cocktail with a delicious Christmas twist!
You’ll need:
- 25ml Midori melon liqueur
- 15ml green creme de menthe
- 15ml white creme de cacao
- 25ml milk
- Mint leaves for garnish
- Raspberry for garnish
- Crushed ice
How to make your Christmas cocktail:
- Pour the ingredients into cocktail shaker
- Shake well for at least 1 minute
- Strain into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a mint leaves and a raspberry
6. Snow Ball
Made famous by Nana Royle this vintage Christmas treat is sure to tickle those taste buds this festive season.
You’ll need:
- 50ml Advocaat
- 300ml chilled Lemonade
- 1 slice lemon
- Crushed ice
How to make your Christmas cocktail:
- Add the crushed ice to a glass
- Pour in the Advocaat
- Fill the glass with lemonade
- Add the slice of lemon
7. Strawberry Cheesecake Martini
Great as a dinner party dessert!
You’ll need:
- 5ml Gomme
- 5 strawberries
- 25ml vodka
- 25ml chambord
Topping:
- 50ml cream
- 30ml frangelico
- 1 x digestive biscuit
How to make your Christmas cocktail:
- Bash together in a glass to get all the juice from strawberries
- Shake with ice
- Strain into martini glass
- Shake with ice
- Strain and pour over the back of a spoon to make the cream float on top
- Sprinkle with crushed digestive biscuits
8. Egg Nog
A classic Christmas drink perfect for serving to a crowd on Christmas Eve
You’ll need (serves 4-6):
- 2 pints whole milk
- 6 free range eggs
- 50g caster sugar
- 1 vanilla pod, split
- 200ml bourbon
- Chocolate shavings to garnish
How to make your Christmas cocktail:
- Place the milk, sugar, vanilla pod and eggs into a pan and heat gently on the hob, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon – be careful not to boil the mixture or your eggs will scramble!
- Divide the bourbon into the bottom of six small heatproof tumblers and top up with the egg nog mixture
- Garnish with chocolate shavings
Get ahead tip: You can chill the mixture at the end of step one and store in the fridge until ready to serve as a cold drink later in the evening. The mixture will keep for up to 24 hours.
9. Apple Strudel
A fruity, spiced winter warmer for a cold Christmas night.
You’ll need:
- 50ml vodka
- 15ml Krupnik (honey liqueur)
- 1 tbsp blackberry puree
- 1 tsp sugar syrup
- 75ml apple juice
- Grated nutmeg to garnish
How to make your Christmas cocktail:
- Pour the ingredients into cocktail shaker
- Shake well for at least 1 minute
- Strain into a cocktail glass
- Garnish with a pinch of fresh grated nutmeg
10. Candy Cane Martini
A colourful cocktail to serve to a party crowd.
You’ll need:
- 50ml vanilla vodka
- 15ml peppermint schnapps
- 50ml club soda
- Candy canes (garnish)
- 1 egg white, beaten (garnish)
How to make your Christmas cocktail:
- Pour the ingredients into cocktail shaker
- Shake well for at least 1 minute
- To make the garnish, crush the candy canes with a rolling pin and spread on a plate in an even layer
- Pour the beaten egg white on to a plate and dip the rim of a martini glass into the egg white, then into the crushed candy canes which should stick to the rim of the glass
- Strain the cocktail mixture into the glass and serve
11. Christmas Pudding
If the main course leaves little room for pudding, try this delightful cocktail instead.
You’ll need:
- 30ml Drambuie
- 150ml Guinness
- 30ml Southern Comfort
How to make your Christmas cocktail:
- Combine all the ingredients in a jug and stir gently to combine
- Pour into a red wine glass to serve
12. The Snow Berry
A short party shot that looks the part for a festive soiree.
You’ll need:
- 15ml cranberry liqueur (chilled)
- 10ml Baileys (chilled)
How to make your Christmas cocktail:
- Pour the cranberry liqueur in first
- Take a teaspoon and pour the baileys over the back of the spoon on top of the cranberry to keep the layers separate
Christmas Cracker Jokes
We all love a good Christmas cracker joke, however corny. Here are a few of the Office Christmas team’s favourites. Email your Christmas cracker joke to us and we’ll post it here!
What do reindeer hang on their Christmas trees?
…Horn-aments!
What did Cinderella say when the chemist lost her photographs?
Someday my prints will come.
What do you get if you eat Christmas decorations?
Tinsilitis!
Why did the elf put his bed in the fireplace
Because he wanted to sleep like a log
What does Santa suffer from if he gets stuck in a chimney?
Claustrophobia!
Who beats his chest and swings from Christmas cake to Christmas cake?
Tarzipan!
What do you call Santa’s little helpers?
Subordinate clauses!
Why was Cinderella such a poor football player?
Because she kept running away from the ball!
Because she had a pumpkin for a coach! (Christine Garnham @ Berg Kaprow Lewis)
What food do you get when you cross a snowman with a polar bear?
A “brr” – “grr”!
What do angry mice send to each other at Christmas?
Cross-mouse cards!
What do you call a bunch of chess players bragging about their games in a hotel lobby?
Chess nuts boasting in an open foyer.
How did Darth Vadar know what Luke was getting for Christmas?
Because he felt his presents.
Who looks after Father Christmas when he is ill?
The National Elf Service.
What is Santa’s favourite pizza?
One that is deep-pan, crisp and even
Who hides in the bakery at Christmas?
Mince Spies!
What Christmas drink gets on your nerves?
Eggnagg
What’s a snowman’s favourite mode of transport?
An icicle!
What is an Ig?
An Eskimos home without a loo! (Joke courtesy of Beverley Randall, Tuthill)
Dress Code Dilemmas
You’ve booked and organised your Christmas party and now all you have left to do is decide what to wear. One small problem… you have a dress code but you’re not entirely sure what it means.
In true fashionista style, here is the Office Christmas guide to dress codes. If you have any questions please leave a comment below or tweet us and we’ll offer our best advice.
Smart Casual: A loosely defined dress code, casual, yet “smart” enough to conform
This is the most common dress code for Christmas parties, especially for shared events. Guests are expected to avoid overly casual clothing such as t-shirts and trainers. Jeans are deemed inappropriate for this dress code but ladies may get away with a smart pair of black jeans.
Ladies: Choose a dress or a pretty top with a skirt or tailored trousers. Finish the look with a pair of heels.
Gentlemen: Choose a collared shirt and jacket; a matching suit is not necessary, nor is a tie.
Smart: Dashingly or impressively neat or trim in appearance
This dress code is common for large-scale private Christmas parties held at glamorous venues. This dress code requires guests to make a special effort with their attire and choose something sophisticated.
Ladies: Choose a glamorous dress and add a glitzy bag, shoes and accessories.
Gentlemen: Choose a dark suit and match a dress shirt with a tie. Tuxedos are a great way to impress but ask your colleagues if they are wearing one too to avoid an awkward situation. Don’t forget to polish your shoes!
Black Tie: Formal evening wear for men
Black tie is a strict dress code and guests will be expected to wear formal attire. We recommend hiring an outfit if you don’t already own something appropriate as this way you get to wear something really special without having to fork out for a hefty price tag.
Ladies: Choose a ball gown or a long length dress with matching accessories.
Gentlemen: Choose a tuxedo and a black bow tie.
Dress to Impress and Party Wear:
Whilst, not official dress codes, these are often used for shared parties. Guests are expected to choose something special to wear that will impress your colleagues and friends.
Ladies: Choose your favourite ‘night on the town’ outfit and don’t forget the heels!
Gentlemen: This dress code is not as strict as the others meaning you are free to choose any outfit; we recommend something that makes you feel smart and sophisticated.
Fancy Dress: A costume for a ball or masquerade, chosen to please the fancy or theme. Usually a costume characteristic of a particular period or place, class of persons, or historical or fictitious character
This is your chance to shine! Once you know the theme of the party you can go to town with creating your costume. Don’t forget about wigs, accessories and make-up which can really add to the overall effect.
In our experience, guests approach fancy dress in groups, if one person chooses to dress-up, others will follow. Be courageous and lead the group by brainstorming ideas. Fancy dress can really add something spectacular to a themed event and is sure to make your Christmas party one to remember.
Fancy Dress Christmas Parties
Companies looking to use their Christmas parties as an ice-breaker event often ask the Office Christmas team for advice on how to break down barriers within a company. Mixing departments in the seating arrangements is one way to do this, though it can make the atmosphere a little more subdued than usual as guests are on their best behaviour sizing up their newly discovered colleagues. A way to get around this is to introduce fancy dress into the equation.
Fancy dress may take you back to embarrassing photos of your 10thbirthday party, but it undoubtedly injects fun and laughter into a Christmas party and fosters its own unique atmosphere of unity. We’ve seen our fair share of fancy dress Christmas parties and yet to see one that hasn’t gone down an absolute storm. Here are our top 5 fancy dress Christmas party ideas:
When I Grow Up
What did you want to be when you grew up? This fancy dress idea makes for a guest list filled with vets, air hostesses, astronauts, mad professors and athletes to name a few.
3D Films
A one-of-a-kind themed fancy dress idea seen in 2017, tailored to a particular client’s industry – guests were asked to dress up as characters featured only in 3D films. The most creative costume of the evening was a motion capture actor, whose black full-body leotard was decked with white ping pong balls at joints and limbs.
Medieval
A particular favourite of company directors with an enthusiasm for history – a medieval themed fancy dress party works well at Christmas when all those layers of fine cloth do a fine job at keeping out the winter cold. The medieval theme lends itself to a raft of interactive entertainment including duelling knights, strolling minstrels and court jesters.
Heroes and Villains
Taking inspiration from films, books, comics, video games and history there is something for all ages to take from the interpretation of a heroes and villains themed dress code. Extend the theme into the party with a ‘Kryptonite’ vodka luge, Wii games, green screen photo studio and performers incognito posing as waiters until battle commences on the dance floor…
Black and White Ball
A themed Christmas party dress code can be more stylish and sophisticated than the suggestions above. The Black and White Ball is an enduringly popular Christmas party theme for corporate events and commands a black tie approach to the wardrobe. Think Bond, James Bond.