Holiday Event Q&A with the Portola Hotel & Spa Catering Team

The holidays are just around the corner, and Portola Hotel & Spa is the perfect place to host your holiday event! For this week’s blog, we sat down with our Catering Team to talk all things festive, from what makes holiday events at Portola so special to their expert tips for creating a celebration that feels effortless, memorable, and uniquely yours. Whether you’re planning a large event or a cozy get-together for a small group, their insights will help you elevate every detail.

Q: What makes hosting a holiday party at the Portola Hotel & Spa so special?

A: There’s something magical about celebrating the holidays here. From our coastal Monterey setting to our beautifully decorated spaces and locally inspired menus, every detail feels festive and elevated. Our team truly loves creating experiences that bring people together, so each event feels personal and full of warmth.

Q: What advice would you give someone planning their first big holiday event?

A: Start with your goals. Do you want a formal dinner, a lively reception, or a fun, casual celebration? From there, trust your event managers. We’re here to guide you through the process, from menu design to timing and layout. And most importantly, enjoy it! Your guests will feel your enthusiasm.

Q: What’s one thing guests might be surprised to learn about hosting an event at Portola?

A: Many are surprised by how customizable our spaces are. Whether it’s a large ballroom, a waterfront terrace, or an intimate private room, each space can be transformed to match the mood or theme of the event.

Q: What’s the most unique or creative request you’ve received for a holiday party?

A: One group requested a “Coastal Winter Wonderland” theme, complete with white sand centerpieces, driftwood trees, and seafood-inspired holiday dishes. It was stunning and perfectly tied to our Monterey location.

Q: What does the planning process look like from the catering team’s perspective?

A: It starts with a conversation, then understanding the client’s goals, preferences, and budget. From there, we build the menu, design the flow of service, and coordinate with our culinary and banquet teams to ensure every detail aligns. It’s truly a team effort.

Q: How early can guests start planning or booking their holiday events at Portola?

A: We start receiving holiday inquiries as early as the summer months! I always recommend booking as soon as possible, especially for prime dates in late November and December. Early planning also allows us to customize menus and décor to fit your vision perfectly.

Q: How does the catering team accommodate dietary restrictions or special requests during the busy holiday season?

A: We take every request seriously, from gluten-free to vegan and allergy-friendly options. Our chefs are incredibly flexible and experienced, and we always label items clearly so guests can enjoy their meal worry-free

Q: Are there fun add-ons or experiences that guests love to include?

A: Definitely! Dessert stations, photobooths, and late-night snacks are always popular. We’ve also done hot cocoa bars, s’mores stations, and even mini espresso carts, those little surprises make the evening memorable.

Q: What’s your favorite space or ballroom at Portola for hosting a festive celebration and why?

A: The De Anza Ballroom is our favorite for its grand feel and versatility. It’s perfect for large holiday galas, but we can also create intimate sections within the space. With its high ceilings and elegant lighting, it transforms beautifully for the holidays.

Q: What are some creative ways to elevate a smaller holiday gathering at Portola?

A: For more intimate celebrations, we love to personalize the experience, think chef-attended action stations, themed cocktail pairings, or cozy lounge-style seating with warm lighting and festive décor. Even a small gathering can feel grand when you add thoughtful touches.

Plan Your Holiday Event at Portola Hotel & Spa

Ready to bring your holiday vision to life? Our team is here to help you craft a celebration that’s warm, festive, and unforgettable. To start planning, call us at (831) 649-4511, or complete a Request for Proposal. Our amazing team can’t wait to help plan your event!