A private party at the Egyptian pyramids. Live reindeer complete with fake snow and a sled. A performance by your favourite celebrity.
There are two kinds of party throwers - those who take on the huge task of organising a Christmas party and those who leave it to their concierge service to plan the most memorable party of the year. While it is admirable for one to oversee every party planning detail from sending out invitations to organising themed goody bags, too many of us suffer from a lack of time, contacts and saint-like patience to even think about tackling such a job. And those who do often end up having the least fun at their own parties.
'The festive season is supposed to be about friends, family and fun, but many of us forget about enjoying what we organise,' says Emma Matthew, chief executive of Quintessentially Concierge (Asia Pacific). 'Small tasks can pile up until there just isn't enough time to do them all, which is where a concierge company such as ours can step in to pick up the slack.'
On average, Quintessentially organises five Christmas parties a year, both personal and corporate parties that vary greatly in size. Matthew says that while there is always pressure to spend 'exorbitant amounts of money' on gifts, parties and entertainment during the festive season, their members this year are looking to their concierge service for ways to spend their money wisely.
'Many stressed-out consumers with less time and money than before are turning to people who know where to find discounts and have access to preferential rates, exclusive benefits and insider knowledge of the best deals and locations on the planet,' she says.
This insider knowledge is the very thing that can set concierge-planned parties apart from the rest. With an extensive network of contacts in industries ranging from F&B to animal care, these resourceful planners have managed to entertain some of the most extraordinary requests thrown their way.