Over the years we have been privileged to be involved in some fabulous 40th birthday parties. Perhaps life really does begin at 40? For many of our clients it is the ideal time to let their hair down, without children in tow and really go to town with the celebration.
How does a party planner work?
We understand that handing over control to an independent party planner can be hard to do. After all you don’t know this person and what if you don’t like their ideas?
When first speaking with a client we determine what exactly you would like for your party. This could be an intimate private dinner, a full on theme or perhaps an elegant black tie event.
From our discussion I provide a proposal detailing how I can help, a suggested budget for you to approve and my fee for the *organisation.
Once a deposit has been paid I start organising your party, recommending key suppliers and providing quotations. I create a design concept for you to approve based on my evaluation on what you desire for your party. I aim to create a memorable experience for you and your guests ensuring you are able to enjoy being the party host knowing I have everything in hand. You need not lift a finger except to sip your champagne on the night.
How do I charge?
It is hard to give guidance on my fees for party planning as each event is so bespoke. My fee for organising an intimate private dinner in a restaurant will be less for example than a formal party in a marquee.
*Please note you will be paying me to “organise your party” for you, it is not the cost of the party itself. You are in essence hiring Dream Occasions for our experience and knowledge. You save a proportion of our fee through supplier discounts you will receive from our core suppliers.
Party Ideas
The beauty of having a 40th is you are in charge, you’re a grown up and can have whatever you desire for your party! Details and links on some past Dream Occasions events are below but do also look at our gallery.
The Private Dinner
Teresa wanted an intimate dinner in central London where the emphasis was on good food, close friends and fun entertainment. This wasn’t to be an event with flashy detailing. After viewing some venues Teresa settled on the Private Rooms at The Ivy . The traditional English décor with large oval table was perfect for what Teresa wanted. Although this was a small dinner with just 20 guests, they were still well looked after with a pianist, magician and caricaturist to entertain them.
Breakfast at Tiffany’s Black Tie
David & Sally had a joint 40th party held in their own barn which we extended by adding a marquee to the cart lodge. We decided on a breakfast at Tiffanys theme and had a lot of fun tailoring the lighting and furniture to match the theme. When guests arrived they were welcomed by jazz musicians, champagne and canapés. once it begun to get dark guests headed into the barn for delicious bowl food and entertainment by a live band.
Sparkly and welcoming
Suzanne celebrated her 40th by using her own barn for an intimate dinner for 50 following by dancing. Instead of a traditional meal she decided on Indian sharing platters, incredibly popular on the night. we adding lots of lots to create a romantic feel to the evening, added bright cushions to the furniture already within the barn and used long tables so the dinner felt more welcoming.
Suggested Themes for a 40th
There are many themes you can have for a 40th but some popular ones include Moulin rouge, great Gatsby, music festival, Cirque du Soleil, beach party or just a simple but elegant black tie dinner. You can see some ideas via my pinterest account
Honesty
Any supplier we recommend has been personally vetted by us and in many cases we have worked with them on previous events. But we absolutely can also work with suppliers already hired by you.
You will see all supplier invoices ensuring the process is totally open, you will know who each supplier is and their fee. This ensures clarity with our service reassuring you of our honesty. We never accept commission and any discounts are passed on immediately to you.
Organising your party
If you would like us to organise a fabulous at 40 party for you please do get in touch via our contact form as we’d love to help you. Please note we only organise 1 event per weekend thus you can be assured of our personal attention always.
Photos by Nick Kontou and Mark Bothwell