Big birthday bashes are getting bigger! That’s according to the team at the Shireburn Arms near Whalley, one of the James’ Places hospitality group venues.
Marketing manager Heidi Kettle, said: “It’s not just more guests, it’s a trend towards providing something extra for partygoers; a difference or a talking point, whether it’s a live band, themed food or outdoors attractions and it tends to be the 50+ big birthdays where the extra details make them unforgettable occasions.”
The UK has seen a rise in the celebration of milestone birthdays in recent years, with a leading greetings card retailer announcing last year that 50th birthday cards were now its biggest seller, accounting for 16 per cent of all card sales Fiftieth birthday balloons had also become market leaders, with sales outstripping 21st balloons.*
A boom in extravagant parties for 50th birthdays was given as the reason for the card sales increase.
Heidi added: “We would agree that 50 is indeed a popular age to throw a big do for your family and friends. Where once this celebration might have been a quiet dinner, it’s now an occasion for a party, a good knees-up and celebration. Customers are asking for interesting menus, from street food themes to barbecues. Prosecco and gin, plus beers from our own Bowland Brewery are the tipples of choice for parties. Hosts want to provide a memorable night out for their guests.
“We are also finding that 60th birthday parties are growing in popularity and Sunday lunch continues to be a popular choice for customers marking their 70th birthdays. Whatever the age, every James’ Places venue has its own, dedicated ‘dream maker’ committed to organising an event to remember.”
James’ Places is a portfolio of hotels, inns, interior design and hospitality businesses across the Ribble Valley and Yorkshire Dales sharing the same service values and ethos for beautiful surroundings with exceptional food and drink.
