Party people extraordinaire Wonky Dog throw the best parties (ask the rock and roll legends and Hollywood A-listers recently seen dancing on their tables). So who better to ask for tips on planning a Christmas bash than Wonky’s super-talented organisers of parties, weddings, weekenders and general shindigs all over the world but often at Somerset party palace, Sparkford Hall, Danny and Laleh…

Themes are good

They get guests in the party mood and create a great atmos from the off.

Keep the drinks flowing

Always order plenty of of beer, ice, mixers, lemons and limes for drinks – they run out so much quicker than spirits. Look to get mixers and alcohol on sale or return.  Arrange for someone to be behind the bar keeping an eye on the stock.

Take your guests on an ‘all sensory’ journey

Its ALL about the lighting, start a bit brighter at the beginning and turn lighting down as the night goes on. It’s a simple trick that changes the space. Use warm lighting, not bright white and try to manage it so that it’s not shining in anyone’s face.  Walk through the party and experience as a guest would.

Create a music progression

Make a play list, starting with background tunes for when guests arrive and then increasing the tempo as the evening progresses and the alcohol starts to work.  Consider having someone in charge of music to prevent guests from throwing on random tunes.

Keep it clean

Have someone clearing and keeping the place clean and tidy as the party progresses.  It’s all in the detail and people notice. It’s better to go to bed to a tidy house and not wake up to the previous night’s debris on a hangover.  Or book cleaners for the morning so the house is in good shape for when you wake up.

Your carriage awaits

Always have a number of a private driver or late night taxi operator handy, especially if you’re in the sticks.  There’s nothing worse than being ready to go home and not having anyone available to take you (or if you’re hosting, having a house full of guests unable to get home).

Enjoy it!

Parties are a celebration of life and all the people in your life. Dance like nobody’s watching and have fun!

 

WANT TO SEE HOW IT’S DONE?

Wonky Dog are hosting two Christmas Supper Club Parties at Sparkford Hall, near Yeovil on Fri 7 and Fri 14 December.

With Christmas sharing plates by Love Cafe and Darren Omar: pan fried breast of guinea fowl and rich Madeira gravy, honey mustard glazed roast smoked gammon and wild mushroom and butternut wellington; roasted root veg and winter green, chestnuts and bacon; and stacks of Christmas sticky chocolate Christmas brownies with a brandy toffee sauce. I wouldn’t say no!

Tickets £55 per head with discounts of 10% for tables of 10 or more. Drinks packages available. To book: bookings@wonkydogproductions.com Want to stay the night? There’s room at the inn, I mean, Sparkford Hall, too: office@sparkfordhall.co.uk

WIN TICKETS!

We’ve got a pair of tickets worth £110 to give away to the supper on Fri 14 December, just write PARTY in the comments box below, or head over to our Facebook or Twitter pages. We’ll be picking a winner on Mon 3 Dec.