It's my 40th later this year and I want to celebrate. This was initially sparked by moving in to a new house which has much more space than our old one, so I wanted to host it at home. The idea was to keep it fairly relaxed, have a space for the kids upstairs where my older daughter can run party games etc (it will also be the younger ones birthday) and then have the adults downstairs drinking and socialising. I would do the food (from Costco). This would be for about 20 adults and 10 children.
However my parents have now raised the question of inviting my godparents, and I'm becoming more friendly with some people at work, who have asked if I am celebrating so I am wondering about hiring a venue and making it a bigger party. This would have to be done on a bit of a budget, but my parents would probably offer to help.
So, what would you prefer, both as a guest and as a host?
A - relaxed party at home, 20 adults in a relatively small space (we would be spread over two connecting rooms), music on an iPod and hot buffet (eating standing up or on laps), kids upstairs out of the way.
B - church hall, few decorations, tables to eat at, DJ/band, either same hot buffet or maybe ask selected friends to bring a dish or two. Kids might be able to have a quiet space to chill out but will probably be in the main party. About 50-60 guests, mixture of family, work colleagues and friends from a few different friendship groups.