Should I send out invites for my birthday meal even though people will be paying for themselves?

[Northerner]

I'm turning 30 in August and can't afford to have a party so I've booked a restauarant and have a list of about 35 people who I'd like to join me for a meal. It will be £20 pp. We'll be having a BBQ at home for sabout 15 family and friends the next day.

I ovb have to inform restaurant of numbers, so should I send out invitations, and how should I word it seeing as I'm not paying?

Thanks guys.

i am having a birthday meal on ............. at...........resturant. The cost of the meal will be 20pp i hope that you will be able to join me.

My first reaction would be YES send invites.

Maybe you could include a copy of the menu with the prices on?

I would put something like...

As you all know I am turning 30. As i cannot stretch to a party, I would like to invite you to join me for meal at xxxxx on xxxx at xxx time

The price per head will be £20

Would love to see you there, please RSVP in order I can arrange the finer details!

I've been to things like this - and indeed I had a do like that a couple of years ago. Go on.

I would go with niknacks wording but add as RSVP - I'm sure people understand.

you could always say something like, please don't bring a gift, just money for your meal!

We asked for people to do this at the meal after our (very informal) wedding and 95% were very happy to do so.

I wish I'd thought to ask for advice for my 40th. We were in the same boat and couldn't afford to pay for everyone. In the end it was a bit confusing and I don't think that everyone understood the arrangements... . DH organised it which explains why it was a bit hit and miss.. Couldn't organise a p*ss up in a pub....literally . But it was a great party in the end anyway.

I think the wording that someone else gave you looks perfect.

Have fun!