Rise of the £80k Christmas decorators

FAIRY lights and a box of tinsel dragged down from the loft may be enough Christmas decorations for most homes – but there is growing demand for a wow factor that comes only from professionals.

Companies can now be hired to create a winter wonderland setting, using cherrypickers to festoon homes with thousands of sparkling lights and impressive decorations, bring in real reindeer and even a dusting of snow. Specialist florists can also install and decorate the perfect Christmas tree.

But for those who want a festive makeover without the effort, it comes at a cost, with charges ranging from £1,500 to £80,000.

Becky Handley, director of Theme Traders, an event production company, told the Guardian: ‘People have started calling in event planners to come up with themes and make a real production with professional lighting.’