Planning on throwing a party this winter? There's certainly no reason to let a little chill in the air stop you from having fun!

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, an anniversary or just having a get together with friends, serving food to match the weather and making warmth a priority will help keep party-goers happy. Here’s how.

Staying cosy in the cold

When you're decorating for a winter party, think warm, rich colours for decorations, tableware and table linen. Pantone’s on-trend colour palette for winter includes vivid aurora red, lush meadow green, orangey potter’s clay and soft pink dusty cedar with pops of violet. There’s plenty of scope there, whether you want to create an elegant look, or a fun and bright one!

If you’re lucky enough to have one, make use of a crackling fireplace, and add atmosphere with candles in glass jars or candelabra.

For an outside event, you’ll need plenty of comfortable outdoor seating with warm throw rugs, hot beverages, and patio heaters to keep everyone cosy. Add a festive feel with fire torches or fairy lights.

The perfect winter menu

You’ll need a winter warmer menu that's easy to organise and certain to please everyone's tastebuds.

Banish the cold with a hearty hot dog

Who doesn't love a hot dog, especially when the weather turns the chill on? No matter what type of party you're having, hot dogs smothered in gourmet relishes tantalise the tastebuds and take the 'bite' out of the cold.

Hot dogs are perfect for finger food parties as they are easy to eat, and are a firm favourite for a children’s party too. A hot dog cart is ideal for a big outdoor or indoor bash as it can feed a lot of people quickly with something hearty and filling.

Living in the 70s for dessert

Bring back the 70s with fondue for dessert, which is suitable for both indoor and outdoor events. The method originated in Switzerland and took the 70s party scene by storm, so you can also turn things up a notch with a fancy dress code from the era if you desire.

Making fondue is very simple and guests can join in with the preparation. All you need is a few fondue pots, depending on how many guests you have. Then just blend good-quality chocolate with cream and warm it through. Pull out the stops with strawberries, bananas, sweet biscuits and marshmallows to dip into the delicious mixture.

Warming drinks

For a real winter warmer, why not serve mulled wine, a good red heated up with spices like cinnamon and cardamom, orange peel and a little sugar? It’s easy to make, then you can keep it simmering along throughout the night. Hot chocolate or Irish coffee are great options too, especially for outdoor parties.

With these classic party food favourites and a warm and inviting venue, your guests will simply clamour for an invite to your next winter bash!