Ah the office Christmas party, potentially the biggest social event of your office calendar. And with Christmas less than 90 days away, it’s time to start planning! We’ve got plenty of ideas and all the elements you need to create the perfect Christmas event - great food, drinks, photographers to capture the whole evening - but to get you started we’ve covered some of the most popular themes below.

# Winter Wonderland
A Christmas classic, and done right, this theme can make your party a real show stopper. Picture decorations in white, silver and ice blue, with wintery trees and lots of fairy lights to create an enchanting winter scene. Think tables covered in white tablecloths, fake snow and hanging silver decorations, all lit up with blue mood lighting. There’s a lot to work with, especially with the right blank canvas venue - [check out our top venues here](https://feast-it.com/suppliers?tier1=venues).

# Masquerade
This theme works better for larger companies, where you might not recognise everyone immediately. It’s also a great theme to allow guests to unleash their creative side, dress up, and feel fancy, all the while easing the age-old question of what to wear! For this theme, look for a venue with a bit of mystery, like [Aures London](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/aures-london) or [Village Underground](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/village-underground).

[![Azure Bar Events](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/73eFHr3TJTklAd9pH5Edf5/0fb75c6fc2f6aab6260a8886be775cad/Feast_It_azure-bar-events-cY1sbhMupt.jpeg)](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/azure-bar-events)

# Circus
One of the most in-demand party themes and a great way to make your Christmas party stand out from the crowd.  Think popcorn carts and candy floss, and if you want to get really creative, hire in some magicians, stilt walkers or fire breathers. Looking to take the theme a step further? How about drinks created with a bit of theatre? We’ve got plenty of dry ice [cocktails & master mixologists](https://feast-it.com/event/cocktail-bar-hire) on hand to give your party that edge.

# Christmas jumper
Did you know one of the most googled questions in December is what to wear for the work Christmas party? Take away that stress for your staff and keep things simple by having a Christmas jumper theme - it’s a classic choice, immediately festive and super easy to organise. Lean into the spirit of Christmas with over the top decorations, santa hats and an incredible Christmas menu on offer. We’ve got some of the [best caterers in the country](https://feast-it.com/event/corporate-catering) with delicious festive menus.

![Cookie decorating](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/6lNrQsE2x5yI5hY8F9nW4O/42736586b859924e15a34ebc878f71db/cookie_decorating.jpeg)

# Cookie decorating
Want to have an activity at your party? Look no further than cookie decorating - it’s fun, suitable for everyone, and easy to scale up or down depending on how many people you have. All you need is a big enough space, some cookies in a variety of Christmas shapes and sizes (you can buy them or ask everyone to bring their own batch), icing, food dye pens and sprinkles. Complete the cosy atmosphere by [hiring a mobile bar](https://feast-it.com/event/mobile-bars) to serve mulled wine.

# Get started
Whatever theme you choose, organising the work Christmas party can be quite a strenuous task, and that’s where we come in. Keep your venue, catering, drinks, and even photographer under one roof and let our Event Experts help. Just fill out a [short form here](https://feast-it.com/enquiry) and we'll get started.

Feast It studio-spaces-RqRFQMP3cL

Our top holiday party themes to up your festive game

Ultimate Christmas Party Themes

Determining your holiday party budget is vital, and should be agreed before you start thinking about the venue, food or drinks. But it’s often hard to know what to spend - too much is costly for the organisation, but too little and employees may feel their year’s worth of hard work isn’t being rewarded. 

# By the numbers
While businesses obviously vary hugely in both size and success, the average spend is around £70 per person - this includes the venue, decorations, food and drinks. 

If you’ve got room to spend more, it’s worth keeping the cost below £150 per head. Many new businesses aren’t aware that HMRC provides tax relief against the cost of holding an annual event providing certain conditions are met - the party must be annual; it must be available to all employees; and the cost must cover all expenses and not exceed £150 per head. [Get more info here](https://www.gov.uk/hmrc-internal-manuals/employment-income-manual/eim21691). 

![spotify event 2 (1)](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/1aYfh2Cr9Taqmvs58rvDdV/6db981411748276533b262d7f4792809/spotify_event_2__1_.jpeg)

# It's all about the food
When it comes to the holidays, food is often what most people look forward to the most. There are plenty of different options to consider and different ways to budget, we've outlined a rough idea below.

__Canapés and finger food__ - Expect to spend around £6 per person

__Street food truck or pop up stall__ - Expect to spend around £12 per person

__Sit down Christmas dinner with all the trimmings__ - Expect to spend £60 per person for 3 courses and £48 per person for 2 courses

![Small_beer_brewery](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/GhpkJ5DrdjTmkwFym3NUt/3b63f212dd0baf04d638315f4c44b702/Small_Beer_Brewery.png)

# Keeping costs down
Without a doubt, the best way to keep costs down is to hold the party in your office. This gives you more budget to spend on decorations, food and drink.

If this isn’t possible, consider hiring a [dry hire venue](https://feast-it.com/magazine/dry-hire-venue) so you're not tied to the venue’s food and drink options and costs. With dry hire, you have a blank canvas and can get creative with new flavours, formats and have more control over the price. 

[![Studio_spaces](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/7sfTcgAvAP0fxAGwfCyHWj/2daaeae5629f095e2a65a3a52c7ef4bf/Studio_Spaces.png)](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/studio-spaces?tier1=venues)

Whether it's in the office or an external venue, if you’re looking to hire in [caterers](https://feast-it.com/suppliers?tier1=food&tier2[]=caterers), [street food](https://feast-it.com/suppliers?tier1=food&tier2[]=street_food), [cocktail bars](https://feast-it.com/suppliers?tier1=drink), or even [photographers](https://feast-it.com/suppliers?tier1=audio_visual), we have thousands ready and available. With all of our suppliers you can prepay and select menu options in advance to maintain control of the budget. 

Another way to save costs is if you are prepared to take a Monday/Tuesday date, which will cost on average 20% less. You can also get better prices per head if you book close to the maximum capacity, so find a venue that's the right size for your party. For inspiration, check out our blog on [what makes a great Christmas party venue](https://feast-it.com/magazine/what-makes-a-great-christmas-party-venue).

Christmas Party

Organising your holiday party doesn’t need to cost a fortune

How much should your Christmas party cost?

A Christmas party is a great way to celebrate a productive year with your colleagues but finding the perfect venue in London during this festive time can be overwhelming. It’s important to carefully consider several factors before selecting the venue. 

Thankfully, there’s a huge selection of great spaces in London you can choose from for your next corporate Christmas party, whether you're looking for a big bash or a low-key affair.

We’ve pulled together some of our favourite corporate Christmas party locations so, let's get going, shall we? 

![Dry hire venue](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/4elRNNSrnjWAacBy4zywpC/8898d34def5c168b534e55d346b76773/Feast_It_amp-studios-0PR6ZWWV1G.jpeg)

# What to consider when looking for the perfect corporate Christmas party venue?
The venue plays an important role in turning your corporate Christmas bash into a night to remember where everyone from the CEO to the interns can have fun. Take a look at some of the factors you should consider while looking for a venue.  

## The capacity of the venue
It’s crucial to pick a venue that’s just right for the size of your party. If it’s too big, the party will feel soulless and empty, but if it’s too small, people will feel cramped for space and claustrophobic. 
It’s always a good idea to visit the venue before you book. Also, ensure that when you visit the venue, all the chairs and tables are laid out so you can visualize your group in the space.

## The location
The location of the venue is equally important. The venue you select must be easy to access for your colleagues. 
It's also important to remember the party's timing when booking a venue. People might prefer it to be near the office if the party starts soon after work hours. Access to public transport is also important as people will likely want to have a few drinks. 

## Packages or dry hire
Many venues offer various services as a package, while some might just include the venue as dry hire. If you want a unique experience and to save money, dry hire venues are perfect. Besides, most packages limit you to the venue's food and drink options. 

## The ambience 
Creating a good atmosphere is half the battle won when planning a corporate Christmas Party. Choosing a venue that gives you the liberty to create your theme can be a great option. 

Ask important questions like do you need a dance floor? Or custom tables and chairs? A photo booth or a mixologist at the bar can also add a touch of flair to your event. 

## Get help
You don’t have to do it alone. Searching for venues and ensuring that the catering is right can be an ordeal, especially during Christmas.
We’re here to provide you with an exciting range of venues for your next corporate Christmas Party. Here is a list of some of our favourite venues:

__[RSA House](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/rsa-house)__
RSA House, is a Grade II listed Georgian Townhouse in London’s W2. With 11 unique and versatile spaces to choose from, capacity options for 30-220 people, and the same facade as 10 Downing Street!
Theme: Georgian Town House.
Price range: £500 - £3500.
Location: 8 John Adam Street, London, WC2N 6EZ.
Food: RSA House have their own caterers on site.
Other things to consider: The venue is home to The Royal Society of Arts, by hosting an event there, you directly contribute to charity and the three current programmes of work: Sustainability, Education and Learning and The Future of Work.

__[The Venue on Middle St.](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/the-venue-on-middle-st)__
The Venue is a happening location for a corporate Christmas Party in the middle of London. The venue has three floors which can be hired separately or together.    
Theme: Industrial-luxe.
Price range: £50 to £105 hire fee per hour.
Location: 3 to 7 Middle Street, Croydon, CR0 1RE.
Food: The Venue does not have a catering service, but they will work with some excellent local caterers.  
Other Options: The middle Floor of the Venue has a banging sound system and a spacious dance floor. The floor is ideal if you want a club ambience for your party.  
Other things to consider: As the Venue has three floors, you have the option to hire any one of the floors.   

__[Village Underground](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/village-underground)__
Village Underground is a beautiful 5000 square feet former Victorian warehouse turned into a party space. From the fabulous bare brickwork to the elegant main antrum, this venue is an ideal space to plan your next corporate Christmas event.  
Theme: Victorian warehouse.
Price range: Available upon request.
Location: 54 Holywell Lane, London, EC2A 3PQ
Food: Village Underground does not operate a catering service, but you can hire your own.   
Other Options: The venue has one main space, two arches, and a fully equipped green room. An Encore PA sound system and full lighting rig can transform it into a full-on party mode. 

__[Shoreditch Studios](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/shoreditch-studios)__
Shoreditch Studios is a railway arch event space perfect for corporate parties. The event has two interlinked studios with a total capacity of 350 people. 
Theme: Railway arch.
Price range: Available upon request.
Location: 347 Bateman's Row, London, EC2A 3PY.
Food: Being a dry hire venue, you will be required to arrange for catering services.    
Other Options: One of the most happening spaces in London, the Shoreditch Studios is booked for over 350 days a year. 

## Hire a professional to find the perfect Christmas Party venue in London
Finding the perfect venue in London can be difficult, especially during Christmas. Professionals like Feast It can make your job a lot easier. Our list of vetted venues eliminates the risk of booking a sub-par venue. 
Feast It will assign an Event Expert from when you enquire until after your event is done. We will guide you at every step of the booking process and point you in the direction of a supplier that suits your needs and budgets the best, so you get exactly what you're looking for. 

Picking a venue for a corporate Christmas Party in London can be difficult. Having professionals like Feast It can make the process easy and streamlined. Let us help you plan an evening to remember. Visit us today to [get a free quote](https://feast-it.com/enquiry). 

Studio_spaces

How to Find the Perfect Corporate Christmas Party Venue in London

We know, we know - it's only June - why are we harping on about Christmas already?? Well, when it comes to planning a festive celebration to remember, you can never be too prepared! Believe it or not, we see Christmas bookings start to roll in thick and fast during the summer months so if you want your pick of the bunch of our suppliers, you might want to move fast! 

We've come up with five ways to celebrate Christmas with your team, from small gestures in the office to a blow-out party. 

![Sparklers & champagne](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/3WLbLx3wTJ6iHZ1A2WgnnC/a6feb8d040ad64609a97930d7e6f24b6/AdobeStock_298856453.jpeg)

# Mulled wine & mince pies for all 
What better way to kick off the festive season than to have one of our gorgeous food trucks visit your office with mulled wine and mince pies for your team! Able to park up and serve outside, or provide an indoor setup, it's the perfect way to say thank you to your team and get everyone in the festive spirit! [Let us know](https://feast-it.com/enquiry) what you're looking for and our team will connect you with the perfect supplier. 

# A cocktail class 
Treat your team to a cocktail class to learn how to make some festive classics. Our talented mixologists will bring everything your team needs to take part in the workshop, including non-alcoholic alternatives if required - a brilliantly fun activitiy to spread some festive cheer, and one the Feast It team has enjoyed in the past for our own Christmas celebrations! 

# The classic Christmas party (with a twist!)
Forget a cold buffet of sandwiches and meats and room temperature wine, Feast It is here to set a whole new standard of Christmas party! Freshly prepared street food served by our passionate and talented suppliers, and cocktails, wine and beer served with flair from fun mobile bars. Make sure it's a night to relive for years to come with one of our event photographers to capture all the fun! [Tell us about](https://feast-it.com/enquiry) your Christmas do and we'll find the right suppliers for the job! 

# Gifting 
Treat your team from afar with one of our hampers or gifts. Handcrafted and expertly curated corporate gifts with branding and personalisation choices for every business-to-business need. Simply get in touch with our Senior Partnerships Manager, Lisa at l.mifsud@feast-it.com and she'll send over some brilliant options for you! 

# Celebrate virtually 
If your team are spread across the country, making getting together difficult....no problem! Why not celebrate together virtually with one of our classes or experiences? Our suppliers lead incredible wine and cheese tasting sessions, with all ingredients sent to each team member beforehand, or maybe an evening of drag bingo is more your style? Bring your team together to [kick off the festive season online](https://feast-it.com/suppliers?tier1=virtual)!

Feast It is here to do all of the legwork for you - our team will connect you with the perfect suppliers for any company event. Just [let us know](https://feast-it.com/enquiry) what you're looking for and our team will take care of the rest! 

Sparklers & champagne

Check out Feast It's top 5 ways to kick off the festive season this year - with something to suit every budget! 

Top 5 ways for your company to celebrate the festive season

Dry hire, Wet hire, Flexible hire... what does it all mean? What are the benefits of dry hire over wet? We've got the lowdown on venue hire and are sharing it all with you here! 
![Night Tales](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/2aIQVg2yCvGQ3YxqL3W4R7/af2c64828b7debabbd61f24cbbab9827/NightTales.png)

# What is a dry hire venue?
A [dry hire venue](https://feast-it.com/event/london-venues) is when you just hire the space, without any of the extras like catering, lighting, furniture or staff. You're literally hiring the space as a blank canvas for you to fill. 

Some venues will only be available as a dry hire, whilst others offer wet hire options too, where all the extras are included in the price. 

# What are the benefits of a dry hire venue?
The beauty of dry hire is that everything is up to you. You can bring in your own catering, AV equipment, decorations, entertainment and staff, rather than being limited to the options or preferred suppliers the venue provide. This means you can really put your own stamp on your event and make it completely unique. Wet hire venues can sometimes feel like a bit of an 'event factory', offering people options A,B or C to choose from, rather than allowing event organisers to create the event of their dreams. 

Dry hire is a great way to save money - you can choose your own suppliers that match your budget and spend money in areas that are most important to you. If you'd rather put more of your budget towards incredible food, and less on decorations, that's all your decision to make! 

# Where do I find a dry hire venue?
You're in exactly the right place! Feast It works with a selection of the best venues in the UK. We've got everything from intimate spaces for small weddings, to sprawling venues for large corporate events. All of them are the perfect blank canvas for you to bring your Pinterest board to life - and we're here to help fill in the other details like food, drink, photography, floristry and more. Just [tell us a little about your event](https://feast-it.com/enquiry) and we'll get to work matching you with the perfect suppliers for your event. 


Feast It kachette venue

We explain the difference between dry and wet hire, and which might be right for you. 

What is a dry hire venue? 

Wedding cocktails have been a huge trend over the last few years, especially those that represent the couple's personalities. Choosing yours will be one of the most exciting parts of your planning, and there are lots of options to choose from. 

To save you the headache (maybe literally) of going through too many of them, we’ve listed our favourites below.

# Consider your guests and theme
Like the rest of your planning, you’ll want to think about who your guests are and the theme of your day.

Sex on the Beach, for example, might not be appropriate for an elderly or conservative guest list, or you may want to pick a cocktail that goes with the colour scheme of your day. Take a look at our selection below and see if any take your fancy. 

![Champagne raspberry](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/3bLhb0vlIiqREtmir15Wd2/fcc849b3ccd42bd7c68ead39e7c63c79/AdobeStock_397512309.jpeg)

# 1: Champagne and fruit
Champagne is the classic wedding day welcome drink. But why not add a fruity twist by adding a few berries to the fizz? This adds a sweetness to the glass and makes a perfect summertime aperitive.

# 2: Daiquiri
Mixing rum, sugar, and lime makes for a delicious combination, topped with a slice of lime over the glass. Mix it up with aged rum for a darker look – or add banana syrup for a tropical zing.

# 3: St. Germain Spritz
A classic take on the French elderflower liqueur. Add martini and Rossi prosecco, club soda, ice, and garnish with a lemon twist. It’s perfect for a spring or summer wedding and makes a refreshing change to the usual cocktail choices.

![Pink Gin Spritz](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/3uo6mNjBB71vxka6ybSeBS/d3d4f6e6a4686f2735917d242b5ad947/AdobeStock_513342360.jpeg)

# 4: Pink Gin Spritz
The instagrammable blush pink cocktail that's perfect for summer. Floral and refreshing, add rose-flavoured gin to lychee liqueur, sparkling water and ice for the perfect mix. Grapefruit or blueberries make a pretty and delicious garnish.

# 5: Pimm’s 
It may not be the most creative of wedding cocktails, but it is a British classic, and you know it will go down well with everyone. Perfect for summer weddings, fill your pitchers with ice, pour in the Pimm’s and lemonade, and add a fruit mix of your choice. Delicious!

# 6: Mulled wine
If you’re having a wedding in winter, consider warming your guests when they arrive with mulled wine. This perfect cocktail of red wine, orange juice and lemonade, complete with cinnamon sticks, oranges and cloves, will melt everyone’s hearts. 

[![The Little Orange Van](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/AoxBAQxpmKLpxtjfrdjWZ/38b60af8191fcdf5bbd463ca59379add/Feast-It-Little-Orange-Van-Street-Food-Truck-Juices-Smoothies-Cocktails-Event-Catering-Mobile-Bar-Book-Now-six__1_.JPG)](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/little-orange-van)

# 7: Aperol Spritz
Another ideal refreshment for a summer wedding, just add prosecco to Aperol and a dash of soda. Aperol Spritz is refreshing as it is colourful, and will go down well with everyone. You could even have something like our [Little Orange Van](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/little-orange-van) for a real showstopper!

# 8: Blueberry Mojito
Mojitos are always popular but consider adding blueberries for an attractive variation. Mix the blueberries, mint and sugar with white rum and club soda for a glorious twist on this Cuban favourite.

# 9: Negroni
Perhaps an acquired taste, but a Negroni brings colour to your serving trays. This red aperitive is one part gin, one part Campari and one part sweet vermouth. Mix with ice and garnish with an orange peel for a bitter treat.

[![Feast It sip-n-swig](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/4QMkDf6FasUGvHQhPoh7Le/bdbd02380baeec181751a830fba6bbe8/Feast_It_the-globe-trotter-bars-QmAqxbe8iA.jpeg)](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/the-globe-trotter-bars)

# 9: Espresso Martini
A great choice if you want to serve later in the day, Espresso Martini is the perfect pick-me-up for your guests after a large meal and a turn on the dance floor. Just add vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur and golden caster sugar.

# 11: Singapore Sling
This gin-based cocktail is long and lovely and was famously invented in the famous Raffles Hotel in Singapore. Mix your gin with cherry brandy and add Benedictine, Angostura bitters, pineapple and lime juice, topped off with a cherry.

# 12: Strawberry Basil Mule
Try this fresh take on the classic Moscow Mule. Add fresh strawberries to lime wedges and basil, then pour over vodka and ginger beer. Add plenty of ice and decorate with a lime wedge and basil leaves.

![English garden cocktail](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/6e95cWROLWQPJad4ERa6h3/fdb4019e56d56e420fec4fe5deb11ce3/English_garden_cocktail.png)

# 13: English Garden
Fruity and refreshing, this one’s perfect for a country wedding venue. Mix the mint leaves, gin, cordial and lemon juice together. Add ice and top up with apple juice before adding a stick of cucumber.

# 14: Coconut Margarita
Even if your wedding isn’t beachside, you’ll evoke feelings of tropical paradise with this delightful creamy take on a margarita. Mix coconut milk, water, tequila blanco and triple sec, then top it with a dash of squeezed lime.

# 15: Sparkling punch
The perfect summer cocktail to complete the list; it's got the bonafide summer rosé, fresh strawberries to add colour and flavour, and a dash of Limoncello to give it a delicious kick.

[![Feast-It-Midsummer-Nightcap-Cocktail-Mobile-Bar-Drinks-Truck-Event-Catering-Book-Now-Vintage-Caravan-main-image](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/2iPmUHajeka8iuK2isKSUG/0178b103bc334a23bf577bddab3c550a/Feast-It-Midsummer-Nightcap-Cocktail-Mobile-Bar-Drinks-Truck-Event-Catering-Book-Now-Vintage-Caravan-main-image.jpg)](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/midsummer-nightcap-tipi-bar)

# Can't decide?
If selecting just one drink for your wedding guests is too tricky, why not give them a choice?

Consider a [cocktail bar hire](https://feast-it.com/event/cocktail-bar-hire) so your guests can choose what they like. These can be set up in your venue, or an outside extra like a mobile bar - they come in all shapes and sizes, from a tuk-tuk and a retro caravan to a milk float and double-decker bus!

Whatever you’re looking for, we have thousands of master mixologists ready and available. Just [tell us about your wedding](https://feast-it.com/enquiry?tier1=drink), and one of our experienced and friendly Event Experts will guide you through every step.

Cocktails

With so many to choose from, we’ve picked our favourites to treat your guests

15 signature cocktails to serve at your wedding

We know it’s summer, the sun is shining, and the last thing on your mind is Christmas, but take it from us - now really is the time to start planning to avoid stress down the line and all the best venues being snapped up. 

If you're responsible for planning the work Christmas do, the pressure is on to plan a night that everyone will enjoy, from the CEO to the interns, and one of the most important decisions is the venue. Take a look at our top tips to make yours the best yet.

[![Night_tales](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/F6PII4idWOPF9GRPPEYWK/eca8398e1452fb76765026a9af91419c/NightTales.png)](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/night-tales?page=1&tier1=venues)

# Size
It might seem obvious but finding the right size venue is vital - too big will feel empty and soulless, too small will feel cramped and claustrophobic. Ensure your venue has the right capacity and go for a visit before you book - with any tables or chairs set out - so you can visualise your group in the space.

# Location
Next up and equally as important is location. If you’re not staying in the office, your venue should be accessible for people to arrive and leave easily and safely. 

Think about timings; when you’ll stop working and what time you want the party to start - this will dictate how far from the office the venue needs to be. Most people will likely have a few drinks, so access to public transport to get home could be key too.

[![Studio_spaces](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/7sfTcgAvAP0fxAGwfCyHWj/2daaeae5629f095e2a65a3a52c7ef4bf/Studio_Spaces.png)](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/studio-spaces?tier1=venues)

# Packages vs Dry Hire
Make sure you find out what's included at each venue. Some more traditional venues will offer packages, others may just be venue hire only. There’s no doubt that dry hire venues are the way to go if you want to save money and put your own stamp on things. 

Often with package options you can be limited too as you're tied to the venue’s food and drink options and costs. With dry hire, you have a blank canvas and can infuse the event with new flavours, formats and have more control over the price.

# Food & Drink
Speaking of food and drink, think about if you want a sit down catered meal, a buffet or canapes. Or why not get more creative and have some different street food stalls and bars? You could even have a street food truck parked outside as a real talking point! 

Whichever it is, we have hundreds of incredible [caterers](https://feast-it.com/suppliers?tier1=food&tier2[]=caterers), [street food](https://feast-it.com/suppliers?tier1=food&tier2[]=street_food), and [cocktail bars](https://feast-it.com/suppliers?tier1=drink) ready and available.  

[![Village_underground](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/5uwfeDWsyBxQjZUfMlfJkb/7113b36086ec955949af6be5e369a561/Village_Underground.png)](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/village-underground?tier1=venues)

# Atmosphere
Choosing the right [Christmas party venue](https://feast-it.com/event/christmas-party-venues-london) is half the battle with creating a good atmosphere. A conference function room will offer little atmosphere compared to the dramatic vaults of somewhere like [Village Underground](https://feast-it.com/suppliers/village-underground?tier1=venues). 

Think how you can organise the room to follow the format of your event - do you need tables for food? A dance floor? You can also drum up more atmosphere by choosing something a little different, like a photo booth, mixologist or a signature cocktail. 

# Don't go it alone 
Our biggest tip of all? Don’t do it all by yourself – searching for a venue and sorting all the catering especially during the Christmas period is a strenuous task. 

We're at your service to provide you with an exciting and innovative range of [Christmas party venue options](https://feast-it.com/event/christmas-party-venues-london), and offer a place to find and manage all quotes for food and drink centrally in your Feast It dashboard. It’s free to use, just [fill out a quick form](https://https://feast-it.com/enquiry) and our team will get right on it!

Night_tales

How to make your Christmas do the best yet

What makes a great Christmas party venue?

When you're searching for your perfect London venue, it can be overwhelming. There are so many options - you’ll find some you never knew existed and hear event planning lingo you’ve never heard before.

If you're thinking of [dry hire venues in London](https://feast-it.com/event/venues-dry-hire-london), this guide will answer all your questions and provide the all-important dos and don’ts. So...what is a dry hire venue anyway? 
![Small_beer_brewery](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/GhpkJ5DrdjTmkwFym3NUt/3b63f212dd0baf04d638315f4c44b702/Small_Beer_Brewery.png)

# Dry hire venues explained
In simple terms, a dry hire means the hire of the venue only. The space available will be different for each venue and can include rooms, floors, halls, and outdoor spaces. The cost is based on you using only the space they have - nothing else is included. This means you have the freedom to plan a unique event built around you.

In comparison, a ‘wet hire’ comes with most of the bells and whistles. It includes the use of the space and any available on-site elements such as a bar, catering, entertainment, audio-visual equipment, and decorations, among other things.

Hiring a venue with most things included sounds like an easy decision, but it’s not always that straightforward. This guide will explain the benefits of dry hiring and how to get the most from your dry hire venue in London.

# What are the benefits of venue dry hire in London?
So, you’ve decided to dry hire your London venue – great! If you’ve chosen the dry hire option, it’s likely that you enjoy putting together events and have good organisation skills as there will be more to sort out with a dry hire. 

Let’s talk about all the benefits of a dry hire and how you’ll be able to unleash your creativity without limits. 

## You’re in control of your event
A dry hire allows you to be in control of your event. You can build it how you want rather than having to stick to what the venue can accommodate. It may seem like a lot to organise, but a dry hire venue means you can bring in suppliers and businesses that line up with your vision. You have the freedom to tailor your event to your needs and the flexibility to host an occasion that hits the mark. You can organise your own:

- Caterers ([we can help with that](https://feast-it.com/event/street-food-catering)!)
- Drinks (we've [got that covered](https://feast-it.com/event/bars) too...)
- Cake designers
- Staff ([we've got all you need](https://feast-it.com/event/event-staff)) 
- Performers/DJ
- Decorations
- Photographers and videographers (you can find [some of the UK's best](https://feast-it.com/event/event-photography) on Feast It!)

## You can plan the event schedule
With dry hire venues, you’re not restricted to the venue’s schedule or staff availability. You can choose what you do with it when you have the space.

You won’t be restricted to the timings of in-house bar or catering staff, so you can tailor your event timings perfectly. Breakfast in the afternoon? Why not? It’s your event. When you choose dry hire, the limit is your imagination (and budget, unfortunately). 

## You aren’t limited to packages
Venues will often offer packages as part of their venue hire. Depending on your requirements and budget, you can choose a package that suits you. But you are always compromising on something along the way.

Whether it’s more food than you need or not enough drinks, too much space, or an event photographer you’re not familiar with. The list goes on. With a dry hire, you can choose exactly what you want.

## You can get stuck into your theme
Is there anything worse than a themed event that doesn’t hit the mark? We’ve all been there. An ‘Ocean Wonderland’ themed event where the only nod to the theme when you arrive is blue table cloths and a projector with an underwater scene on loop. Absolutely not.

A dry hire venue in London lets you showcase the theme fully. You can commit to a theme because you control the event décor, design, and suppliers. Not a sad sea-blue napkin in sight. Perfect if you're looking for a [Christmas party venue](https://feast-it.com/event/christmas-party-venues-london) to decorate! 

# A recap of what you should do when you dry hire a venue in London:

- Be clear and honest with your venue and event planner
- Check exactly what the cost includes and which space you will have access to
- Check the timings with the venue so you know when you can begin setting up and take down your event
- Get involved with every touch point to make your event unique and distinct

And the things you shouldn’t do

- Don’t assume you can do anything with your dry hire. There will be restrictions, especially in boutique and more exclusive London venues.
- Don’t leave the organisation until the last minute. Sourcing everything for yourself will take time, and suppliers are booked months in advance. The venue might be sorted, but the rest is still on the to-do list.
- Don’t underestimate the power of communication. Weekly catch ups and calls - whatever works to keep everyone in the loop at all times.

## Do choose dry hire for your London wedding 
The rise of the modern wedding is showing no signs of slowing down; this is where dry hire wedding venues have their time to shine. Choosing to dry hire a venue for your wedding is an exciting route to take, especially if you are interested in a less traditional wedding. It gives you the option to tailor your special day with endless details that are personal to you and your partner. From bespoke décor and fun street food to flowers and signature cocktails, a dry hire means your wedding can be unequivocally yours. 

We can help you find and organise your perfect event, simply. On our website, you can choose from over 1,500 of the best suppliers in the UK for your event. Whether you host a birthday party, fashion show, or exhibition, a dry hire venue could be the best option. Get quotes on Feast It today to bring your venue dry hire in London to life. 


Dry hire venue

If you're thinking of dry hire venues in London, this guide will answer all your questions and provide the all-important dos and don’ts!

Dry hire venues in London: Dos and Don’ts

Hands up if you prefer dogs to people. We’re joking, but not really. In the UK, people __love__ their dogs and so not including them on their wedding day is out of the question.

In recent years there's been a rise in the number of couples including their dogs in their wedding. Some just like their dog to be there for a few photos - others get them involved as ring bearers or even to accompany them down the aisle. 

If your wedding wouldn’t be the same without your four-legged BFF, here are the best ways to include your dog in your wedding.

![Dogs at a wedding](//images.ctfassets.net/91pq7vxbip7x/3oxZVbi7nPTegQBkhAmhOS/15dcde2624513797cca9b07eea6cb686/pexels-oliver-li-6490261.jpg)

## Keep them in mind from the start
The most important thing is to find a venue that is dog friendly. Luckily, Feast It has that covered.

Simply [tell us about your event](https://feast-it.com/enquiry) and add a note that you’re looking for a dog-friendly venue, and we can tailor your quotes straight away.

Many couples now request that their dogs be in attendance, and venues are adapting. This means more venues are allowing dogs, but not all of them. Find out in advance if they're dog-friendly, so you don’t waste any time on wedding planning.

## Have them walk down the aisle
The ultimate way to involve your dog in your wedding is to have them walk down the aisle with you. You could get a custom lead or harness, so everything matches. You'll need to organise who you'll be handing them over to beforehand - usually one of your bridesmaids or groomsmen.

You could also have them walk down the aisle as a ringbearer and bring the rings to you via a basket that they carry (if they are trained to do so) or strapped onto them with a cushion. Either way is equally cute.

## Reserve a seat for them on the front row
Your dog deserves the best seat in the house - they're part of the family, after all. You could reserve a seat for them on the front row and hope they sit there for the duration like a good dog, or simply place a framed photo there instead, so they can be with you in spirit.

## Feature them on your signage, décor, or stationery
Another great way to include dogs at weddings is to feature them in the design and décor in some way. This can be from your save the dates and invitations to your place names and wedding favours on the day.

You could discreetly (or not so discreetly) embroider their name or image onto pocket squares, suits, or dresses. You can get custom cufflinks, hair pins, and jewellery, too. Get creative. There’s no limit to what you can get for pets nowadays as the market is so popular right now. You can search online to find what’s right for your special relationship with your dog.

## Dress them for the occasion
Imagine your fur baby wearing a bow tie, bandana or outfit that matches the theme of your wedding. You can get custom pet accessories on sites like Etsy to get the perfect match for your big day.

You could even get them a custom collar or nametag. Of course, only do this if your pet is comfortable wearing accessories or outfits – you don’t want dramas on the day!

## Feature them on your wedding cake
While you might not want your dog sitting with you as part of the wedding catering, you could ask your cake designer to feature your pet on your wedding cake. This can be as obvious or as subtle as you want. Get the designer to make something that matches your pet and their personality.
There are some great examples online of wedding cakes that feature their dog biting a chuck of cake from the bottom or sitting proudly next to their paw-rents on the top tier. Give the cake designer plenty of notice and lots of good quality photographs to work from, so the icing version is just as
cute as the real thing. Lots of our [wedding caterers](https://feast-it.com/event/wedding-catering) are also able to personalise their menus and dish names, so you could have a nod to your furry friend there too! 

## Take photos during the ‘getting ready’ portion of your day
If your dog won’t be there to celebrate with you for the whole day, set time aside for a photo shoot as you’re getting ready. Tell your wedding photographer in advance that your dog will be there so they can plan some dog-friendly photo ideas.

You can still involve them in your day and get some great photos to cherish. These work best as candid photos as your pet interacts with you naturally and will make sure they feel part of your special day.

## Ask for donations
If your dog was a rescue, you could set up a table for donations of money, toys, and treats for a local animal shelter or charity. This is also a good idea if your beloved pet has passed away and you still want them to be a part of your day.

## Make them into a cardboard cutout
Ok, stay with us on this one. It’s a quirky idea, but it works. Guests will find it funny; your dog can still be in all the photos, and they will be perfectly posing every time. You can get custom cardboard cutouts online, and they will last for other events too.

## Make time for training
Training for dogs before the big day will make them more comfortable on the big day itself. Get them used to busy spaces with lots going on. Take them to your local pub or dog-friendly shops to give them the exposure they need to feel comfortable in similar situations.

If someone you know is having a dog-friendly wedding too, even better. No matter how much you plan, you should be aware that having your dog there may not always go the way you hoped. You should make some allowances and enjoy this special time with your dog.

## What to consider with dogs at weddings
At the risk of sounding like a killjoy, there are some potential downsides to bringing your dog along. Take a moment to think about what is best for them. Every dog is different. Will they really be comfortable and enjoy the day alongside you, or would it be best to arrange for them to spend a fun-filled weekend at doggy day care instead?

- Your dog will need a designated carer for the day. Think about who'll take care of your dog when you are having photos taken or are chatting with guests
- Is your dog a large breed that gets over-excited sometimes?
- Who'll walk your dog down the aisle?
- Is your dog comfortable in busy places?
- Does your dog tend to bark a lot?
- Who'll be responsible for the dog during the wedding ceremony?
- Will the noises scare them?
- Will your dog be there for the evening celebrations?
- What about toilet breaks and exercise?
- Is there space for them to have their food away from the main event?
- Some venues require you to pay a fee to bring your dog to cover any accidents or damages.

Having your dog at your wedding could be great, but it needs to be right for you and your dog. To get quotes from the best dog-friendly venues or research suppliers that have experience working with pets at all kinds of events, [start your journey](https://feast-it.com/enquiry) to the perfect dog-friendly wedding. If you're looking for an [epic gin bar for your wedding](https://feast-it.com/event/wedding-gin-bar), we can help with that too! 

Dog at wedding

We look at all the ways you can make your four legged friend an important part of your big day! 

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