Recall the last office Xmas parties? That may be a stupid question, you were probably so intoxicated that you couldn’t remember who you worked for. Allow me to rephrase the question. Was it actually memorable? For many of you I predict the resounding answer would be no. Whether you celebrated with your colleagues in the office and ended up photocopying all means of unmentionable body parts, or simply passed out as you drank to numb the boredom in a faceless rented hotel meeting suite, your last Christmas do was probably one to forget.

Maybe you feel like you deserve better? 2010 has been a tough year with worries about the recession and unemployment, UK workers should really be hounding their employers to pull out all the stops this festive season. A great way to make your Noel-based knees-up go off with a bang is to let an outside catering firm take the burden of preparing the food and organizing the venue.

Imagine restaurant quality food served up any way you want. Whether you require a formal sit down meal, an informal buffet or even something more extravagant like a hog roast, this new band of private catering companies can pander to your every whim. Food is not usually top of the agenda for most Christmas party goers but most outside caterers now put as much effort into their array of exciting beers, wines and cocktails as they do their grub.

Many caterers now even offer themed events. The only limit is your imagination! Want a Christmas do with a caveman dress code and a italian finger food buffet? Eggbert from accounts may not be too thrilled about it, but outside caterers can make it happen. Make sure you have a break from the norm this festive season, get your company’s HR department to look into outside catering. Yule be happy you did!