The #1 Purchase Consumers are Making for their Christmas Parties
From sparkling dinner parties to the perfect Christmas table, many are going all out this festive season. New research from labels-for-less retailer TK Maxx reveals the average host spends £130 to personalise their festive gatherings, with social media shaping what a picture-perfect event looks like. The survey, which polled over 2,000 UK adults, explored hosting habits including motivations, generational differences, and the products and style choices that make gatherings memorable.
As the days get colder and darker, that doesn’t stop us from giving our guests the warmest of welcomes. This year, hosting is firmly on the festive agenda, with many planning to host Christmas dinner at home. Over a third (35%) typically host around two events during the festive period.
As hosts, we all want to create a warm and inviting space where guests can relax. And with hosting on the rise, it’s younger adults who are setting the trends when it comes to style and presentation. 25-34 years old are the most active hosts, with 34% planning to host both Christmas parties and New Year’s Eve celebrations. They are also the most style-conscious: 81% say it’s important to make gatherings feel special through stylish tableware, décor and thoughtful finishing touches.
Party planning has come a long way from the days of handwritten paper invites delivered by pigeon carrier. Increasingly, our busy social lives (offline) are influenced by what we’re doing online.
Yes, social media plays a big role in shaping hosting choices, with 80% saying it influences how they style their homes with many actively investing in tableware, glassware, and soft furnishings to elevate their hosting game, in contrast to Baby Boomers, 51% of whom say they buy ‘nothing in particular’.
While hosting has its challenges – from budgeting to cleaning up after our guests – ultimately the survey showed that many of us simply love to host our nearest and dearest The ‘cosy, relaxed atmosphere’ and feeling that it’s ‘more personal and meaningful’ top the list of reasons for hosting at home. When asked what they love most about having people over, respondents in TK Maxx’s nationwide study cited ‘spending quality time with loved ones’, ‘seeing people enjoy themselves’ and ‘making guests feel welcome’. Women were slightly more likely than men to prioritise quality time (48% versus 41%).
The hustle and bustle of winter nights out have their appeal however, cost realities are changing where we are celebrating. Almost half of respondents claimed that hosting at home costs less than going out for a festive meal or night out. Many citing cost-effectiveness as their primary reason for hosting at home, a reason even more so important among those over 55. Despite budget concerns, people aren’t cutting corners when it comes to hosting, with people in the North East spending the most (£147), followed by the North West (£139) and Greater London (£138).
TK Maxx tips for hosting like a pro:
- Create ambience on a budget: Candles and lighting transform any space – mix heights and scents for visual and sensory appeal.
- Invest in versatile pieces: Quality glassware, neutral table linens and classic serving pieces work for any occasion.
- Layer seasonal touches: Small seasonal decorations make a big impact without overwhelming your space.
- Don’t forget the details: Statement napkins, place cards or festive centrepieces show guests you’ve made an effort.
From stylish tableware and seasonal decorations to cosy lighting and soft furnishings, TK Maxx has everything you need to create a warm, welcoming space for your guests. Explore their wide range of home décor and discover how easy it is to host in style, without breaking the budget.