Tony and Sheilah Edwards' Joint 80th Birthday Party Party Entertainment Ideas

What party were you organising, and who was it for?

The party was a joint birthday party to celebrate mine and Tony’s eightieth birthdays.  We didn’t want to let it go by without some sort of celebration.  Our birthdays are only three weeks apart, me being the eldest.  We had to wait until after Tony’s birthday (I didn’t want to tempt fate) before we held the party.

Where did your party take place, and why did you choose that venue?

The party was held at St Mary’s Parish Centre in Derby.  It is a catholic church, and being a parishioner I was able to hire the hall for a very reasonable fee.  We had about 100 guests coming from all over the place, the furthest travelling from Spain. 

Accommodation was required so I booked around 26 rooms at the Jurys Inn in Derby, which is right opposite St Mary’s Parish Hall and the church.  It was very convenient for guests staying over (drink-wise)!!, and of course for the catholics going to mass the next morning. 

It was also great being able to have breakfast together the next morning, before bidding everybody (in stages) a fond farewell.

Please tell us about the entertainment you booked through Alive Network, and why you chose that artist.

I chose J M Guitar because I liked the look of him.  A few of my female friends were swooning over him for his looks and talent!!  He sat on stage and provided a wonderful ambience to the party.  Most of the guests commented on his talent, and would have liked to hear more of his music.  One guest searched for J M Guitar on the internet the next morning, and was able to play his demo tracks from the Alive Network web site.

I have never been in a position to hire a professional musician before or have any contact with a professional music agency, but I was very impressed with the way everything was handled and the quick response I received after first making contact via the internet.  I was especially impressed by my personal Entertainment Co-ordinator, Clare Kimble - she was wonderful. 

What other suppliers/services did you use, and please provide commentary on any you feel were particularly notable.

The Butlers Pantry in Mickleover, Derby, provided the food for the party, and they were wonderful.  My daughter-in-law organised an 80th birthday cake for us, which was fantastic.  It was half blue and half pink, with our "images" on the appropriate sides. 

In your own words please describe the stand-out moments of the party.

I think the highlight of the evening was being presented with a four day holiday in the country from our two children and their spouses.  It was a wonderful surprise, especially as they would have had to save up to present us with this sort of gift.  And, we are all going which makes it all the more special.

I am happy to say that both sides of our family always gel, as do our friends, so the atmosphere was great.

Any pearls of wisdom you would like to extend to other party planners?

If love and friendship are there at the party, like at ours, then that is all you need for a perfect party!!