A Guide to Office Christmas Party Catering: How to Plan, What to Serve & When to Book

Before we get to the how-to, let’s take a moment to reflect on the "why." Why is the office Christmas party so important?

Think beyond the free food and drinks. The office Christmas party is a powerful tool for building a positive, cohesive work environment. It's a chance to:

• Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge the hard work and successes of the past year. It’s an opportunity for leadership to express genuine appreciation, showing that their efforts haven't gone unnoticed. 
• Boost Morale: A well-planned, festive event can re-energize a team and foster a sense of camaraderie. It allows colleagues to connect on a more personal level, strengthening professional relationships and making the workplace a more enjoyable space. 
• Build Company Culture: The party is a tangible representation of your company’s values. A fun, inclusive, and generous event shows that you prioritize your people and their well-being. It creates a feeling of belonging and encourages loyalty. 
• Leave a Lasting Impression: A truly memorable party will be a highlight of the year. People will remember the fun, the laughter, and, yes, the amazing food for months to come. This positive association can even become a recruiting tool, as a strong company culture is a powerful attraction.

In a world where remote work and hybrid models are becoming the norm, these in-person moments of connection are more valuable than ever.

You know the old saying, “The early bird gets the worm”? In the world of Office Christmas party catering, the early planner gets the best menu, the perfect delivery slot, and a stress-free lead-up to the event.

The Christmas season is, without a doubt, the busiest time of year for us. Our calendars fill up faster than a plate of our signature canapés at a hungry gathering. If you wait until the last minute, you risk facing a limited menu, unavailable delivery times, or, in the worst-case scenario, finding that your preferred caterer is fully booked.

So, when should you book?

• For Large-Scale Events (50+ people): We recommend you get in touch with us as early as September or October. This might sound ridiculously early, but it gives you a crucial advantage. You’ll have a pick of our full menu, plenty of time for tastings, and the ability to secure a prime delivery slot. It also allows us to meticulously plan the logistics and staffing for your specific needs. 
• For Smaller Team Lunches & Parties: Even if your gathering is more intimate, we still suggest booking at least 3-4 weeks in advance. While our minimum notice is 24-48 hours, giving us more time allows us to perfect every detail and ensures we can accommodate any last-minute changes or dietary requests without a hitch. 
• Last-Minute Lifesavers: If you’re in a bind and the clock is ticking, don’t panic! We’re experts at turning last-minute challenges into culinary successes. Get in touch with us immediately, and we’ll do our absolute best to work our magic and save the day.

Booking early isn't just about us; it's about giving yourself the peace of mind to focus on the other party details, the music, the decorations, and the fun activities knowing that the food is already in expert hands. 

Now for the nitty-gritty. Let’s break down the planning process into manageable, bite-sized steps.

Before you even think about the food, you need to set the parameters.

• Budgeting: Be realistic and transparent. How much can you allocate per person? This will be the single biggest factor in determining your menu options. Our packages are designed to offer incredible value at every price point, so we can work with you no matter the budget. 
• Guest List & Headcount: This is a critical detail. You need an accurate number of confirmed attendees. Send out an RSVP with a clear deadline. Over-catering wastes money and food; under-catering is an embarrassing mistake you want to avoid. 
• The Venue: Where is the party happening? An on-site Office Christmas Party Catering requires different catering logistics than an external venue. Our team is equipped for both and can advise you on the best setup for your chosen space. 

This is where the fun begins. The catering style you choose will set the tone for the entire event. Forget bland sandwich platters; at Owen Brothers, we offer a range of options designed to impress.

• The Classic Cold Fork Buffet: This is the social butterfly of catering options. Perfect for a festive spread where guests can mingle and choose from a lavish selection of beautifully presented dishes. Imagine a table laden with our Moonstone Cold Fork Buffet, featuring sumptuous platters of roasted meats, vibrant salads, and delectable side dishes. It encourages conversation and creates a stunning visual centerpiece. 
• The Mingle-Ready Sharing Platters: Want to get people talking? Our Sharing Platters are the answer. From a rustic Continental Charcuterie Platter to a vibrant Build Your Own Mexican Feast, these platters are designed for a collaborative and informal atmosphere. They break the ice and create a relaxed, communal dining experience. 
• Elegant Canapés & Finger Food: For a more sophisticated cocktail party or a pre-dinner reception, nothing beats our Canapés and Finger Food. They are small, exquisite works of art that are easy to enjoy while holding a drink and chatting. Think about the delight on your guests' faces as they sample everything from Tempura Prawns with Sweet Chilli Dip to vegetarian Spring Rolls. 
• Modern Individual Bento Boxes: In a post-pandemic world, some companies prefer a more streamlined, no-fuss approach. Our Individual Bento Boxes are the perfect solution. Each box is a complete, beautifully sealed meal, offering a personal and hygienic dining experience. The Dania Halal Working Lunch or the The Gold Bento Box Breakfast are fantastic examples of how we’ve mastered this elegant and practical style. 

This is non-negotiable. A great Office Christmas Party Catering is one where every single person feels considered and cared for. Don’t just ask about allergies; inquire about all dietary requirements. At Owen Brothers, we take this seriously.

• Go Beyond the Basics: We don't just offer "a vegetarian option." We have entire menus dedicated to specific needs. Our Veganite Cold Fork is a comprehensive and delicious 100% vegan menu. Our Farah Halal Breakfast is a thoughtful inclusion that shows respect for your team's diverse backgrounds. 
• Allergen Safety: We handle food allergies with the utmost care and expertise. Each of our menus lists potential allergens, from gluten and nuts to dairy and eggs. We are meticulous about food preparation and can create safe, customized options to ensure no one is left out. 

Now for the heart of the matter: the food itself. Your menu should feel festive, abundant, and utterly delicious.

• Start with the Warmth of a Hot Buffet
• Feast Your Eyes on Festive Platters
• Don't Forget the Drinks
• End on a High Note with The Grand Finale of Desserts

Planning an office Christmas party doesn’t have to be a source of stress. It should be a source of excitement and anticipation. By starting early, defining your vision, and partnering with a caterer who understands the importance of delicious food and seamless service, you can create a truly unforgettable celebration for your team. 

At Owen Brothers Catering, we have over 50 years of experience turning corporate events into culinary masterpieces. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail, our commitment to using the freshest ingredients, and our ability to craft bespoke menus that reflect the unique spirit of your team. 

Ready to start planning? Don’t wait until the last minute. Get in touch with us today, explore our menu, and let's work together to make your office Christmas party the best one yet.