PSCO | STYLING TIPS

HOSTING THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS PARTY

By Sara Sutton, Founder of Perth Style Company

Christmas has always been my favourite season, it’s equal parts magic, memory-making and a healthy dose of sparkle. Every year, I transform my home (and especially my garden) into a festive escape ready for feasting and laughter.

But here’s something I’ve learned as a stylist and a seasoned host: a beautiful Christmas is not about exhausting yourself. It’s about thoughtful planning, clever outsourcing and creating moments that feel effortless for you and unforgettable for your guests.

This year, I’m sharing exactly how to Christmas at home. My styling notes and the small touches that elevate an ordinary gathering into something truly special.

MY PHILOSOPHY FOR A STRESS-FREE, STYLISH CHRISTMAS

Hosting shouldn’t mean disappearing into the kitchen all day or feeling frazzled by lunchtime. The truth is: with smart planning, Christmas can feel relaxed, elegant, and genuinely enjoyable.
I outsource what doesn’t need to be done by hand pre-cooked glazed hams and pre-cleaned prawns.
A beautiful platter, fresh herbs, citrus slices or a garnish of cranberries instantly elevates simple food. This frees you to focus on what really matters: setting the scene, creating memories and actually being present.

BRING THE MAGIC: MY APPROACH TO DECORATING

Everyone who knows me knows I take Christmas decorating very seriously (I start in June!). But don’t worry, most people can comfortably begin in November.

For me, styling a festive home comes down to three non-negotiables:
1. A show-stopping tree
2. A welcoming wreath
3. A beautifully set table

From there, it’s all about cohesion. Choose your palette! Deep reds, burgundies, silvers or warm creams are all trending this year. Carry it through every touchpoint: the tree, the staircase, the mantle, the tablescape and even your wrapping paper. The trick is to keep it repetitive but I encourage you to explore what feels authentic to your personal style.

TREE STYLING TIPS I SWEAR BY

Lights always go on first.

Layer garlands, then baubles, then bows.
Finish with a topper that feels sculptural and glamorous.
Choose: maximalism (cover the tree completely) or minimalism (let the branches be the hero with one signature ornament style).

Ribbons are having a huge moment — on trees, wreaths, candlesticks and gifts. Plaid is best kept as an accent. And yes, silver is majorly back for 2025 in both decor and tableware.

ELEVATE THE EXPERIENCE: MAKE CHRISTMAS FEEL LIKE AN OCCASION
Australia does casual so well, but Christmas is the perfect excuse to revive a sense of occasion.
Think:
Dressier outfits
Formal table settings
Your special glassware and heirloom pieces
Vinyl records playing instead of a playlist
It’s nostalgic, thoughtful and sets the entire mood for the day.

THE RISE OF DOOR- SCAPING

I adore extending the theme right to the front veranda. A beautiful doormat, oversized garlands, lanterns or even a life-size Nutcracker instantly sets the tone.

If your entrance allows, a second lit tree is pure wow-factor.

MY TOP SEVEN TIPS TO WOW YOUR GUESTS THIS CHRISTMAS

**1. Elegant Stationery**
Printed invitations, menus, place cards and matching gift tags create a luxurious, cohesive theme. It feels beautifully intentional and guests love it.
**2. Christmas Karaoke**
Trust me — this is a crowd favourite. What starts as a kids’ activity quickly becomes an adults-only takeover. It breaks the ice instantly.
**3. DIY Christmas Cocktail (or Mocktail) Station**
Set up a self-serve bar with mixers, syrups, citrus, herbs and sugar-rimmed glasses. It gets guests mingling and takes pressure off you.
**4. Games (The Unexpected Kind)**
Pass the Parcel with dares or trivia, Christmas Pictionary, or charades . Even quick, silly games create hilarious memories and give structure to a long lunch.
**5. A Memory-Making Table**
Conversation starter cards and gratitude crackers bring generations together.
Last year, the stories shared at my own table were some of the most touching moments of the entire day.
**6. A Polaroid Photo Backdrop**
Create a simple styled backdrop and let guests take instant photos. Display them on a string during the day, it becomes a living memory wall.
**7. An After-Dinner Chill Zone**
As the day winds down, guests naturally gravitate to a cosy nook.
Think candles, mulled wine, blankets and soft jazz. It creates a peaceful place for heartfelt conversations (and a strategic escape from the main table!).

A FINAL THOUGHT

Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful, but it can feel polished, thoughtful and joy-filled with a little intention and creativity.

Whether you follow my tips to the letter or simply borrow one idea you love, I hope your Christmas is full of magic, meaning and moments you'll treasure.

Merry Christmas and happy styling everyone

Sara xx