Aria Catering group chef Simon Sandall

ARIA Catering group chef Simon Sandall’s top five tips for staying sane over Christmas:

• Confirm your venue early. For example, at Sydney Opera House we are often booked a year in advance for the prime Christmas party dates
• A great event is one that has been well planned. Work with your event managers to ensure every detail is agreed before the day

• If you are having a stand up canapé event, add some food stations that are interactive and look great

• Use an event manager to help with your menu and wine choices – they are the experts and can give valuable advice

• On the night let the catering team look after the detail, relax, have fun and enjoy yourself