Number 40

Found that my mind has been straying towards the event itself. I live in Wimbledon, the wedding/christening centre of the universe or so it seems and I think it's time to nab myself a venue before some 21 year old Bridezilla gets there first!

Well, my first decision (see that book did do some good after all) was that I would like my party to be local ish. It just seems easier somehow to plan and arrange and get home afterwards. Also it would seem strange to celebrate my birthday in a place that I had no connection to at all. So, Wimbledon it is......

My next thought (busy busy busy) was Cannizaro House. A grand country house hotel tucked behind wimbledon common, beautiful grounds etc etc When they said they had my day available I was doing the happy dance all around the house. I took the family up there on Sunday to sign on the dotted line but when I saw it my heart sank. It is all velvet curtains and carpets, doors closed so as not to disturb the guests, 'elegant' wallpaper and a smell of old ladies! OK, so it doesn't smell of old ladies but it was a bit bleugh! More golden wedding than funky 40. I couldn't bring myself to do it.

Since then I have become intimately acquainted with football club function rooms (sticky floors) church halls (surprisingly funky but out by 11pm) golf clubs (too much carpet) and private rooms in pubs (hell is other people) And then, in a flash of inspiration I HAD IT! The perfect solution! A place that means a lot to me, it's fab and funky, with a touch of the gothic, it's close to home, it's perfect. I cannot speak it's name for fear of jinxing my plan, (and in case you are a Bridezilla looking for a venue) but I am determined to have that place.

I am currently in negotiation (get me)
Watch this space .....