Hosting clients at Christmas

A Christmas dinner for clients is a different animal from the office party. Guests come partly out of courtesy, and every detail says something about your company. A hotel known for attentive service helps a great deal, but the hosting still has to come from your own people.

Why some teams choose a quieter address

The St. Regis Singapore, in the Tanglin area near the Singapore Botanic Gardens, is often shortlisted for this kind of evening because of its reputation for butler-style service and a calm, private atmosphere. It suits a seated dinner more than a loud late-night party. As with any venue, check current details with the venue before you plan around a particular room.

Decide who hosts whom

Work out early which clients to invite and which colleague will look after each table. Too few hosts and guests drift. Too many and the evening turns into an internal event with clients watching. Each host should know the account well enough to keep conversation easy.

Treat seating as part of the plan

• Seat clients who would value meeting each other side by side.
• Keep competitors apart.
• Share the seating plan with hosts a few days ahead.
• Brief the hotel team on VIPs, dietary needs and anyone who needs extra care.

Keep the programme light

A warm welcome from your most senior leader and a brief thank-you are usually enough. Skip the business presentation. Music that supports conversation, such as a jazz trio or a string quartet, suits the room better than a loud band.

Agree a photography approach

Some clients prefer not to appear in social posts. Decide your approach before the night and ask before sharing any images.

For more on seating hosts, briefing service staff and following up afterwards, see Get Out! Events' notes on hosting clients at a St. Regis Christmas dinner.