I've been a professional Christmas party planner for 40 years – here's how I create a night to remember

Liz Taylor smiles at one of her extravagant Christmas parties for clients.

Christmas party season has begun! Are you throwing a Christmas drinks party for the neighbours, or having a dinner and dancing do with work?

Festive hosting can be a massive undertaking. From answering guests' queries about which Christmas party outfit they should wear and where they should park, to ensuring everyone has a full glass and a glad heart, the labour required can be Herculean. Now imagine catering for hundreds, or even thousands, of people – the hostess with the mostest responsibilities!