40th Birthday Celebrations

[eash]

Sorry wasn't sure where to put this.
My cousin will be turning 40 soon, we're not very close, but we do meet up for drinks and the movies occasionally and have a laugh at any family do that happens. She has asked me for ideas to celebrate her 40th birthday but I don't know what to suggest. I think she wants to go out dancing as she originally suggested Chicago's but she wasn't sure of that herself and doesn't think many people will come if she suggests that as her nearest one is in Basildon!
So, has anyone got any ideas?
TIA

[coccinelle]

Is it a family do or a friends do? or both?

[eash]

I think it's mainly going to be with her friends with the odd family members (such as I) invited as well.
She originally booked a hall and wanted a super hero's themed party for family and friends but for some reason she cancelled the hall. She claims not that many were interested but I think there's more to it than that as she has just got divorced.

[coccinelle]

If she's just divorced she probably doesn't quite feel up to doing anything really but as it's her 40th wants to do something. I quite understand not wanting many family as they're sure to mention the divorce etc What about a murder mystery evening with her friends in a hotel? or if she needs papmering an afternoon at a spa with a couple of drinks afterwards.

[joannie10]

If she is not sure who would come could she not just choose a large bar in the area and say to friends to come along if they are free. means she has not booked anything, so not sitting in a big empty place but if biggish crowd come along there is still room? Alternative is some places here in Glasgow do Cocktail Materclasses, am going to one for a hendo. She could just pick closer friends that she is more confident about them coming along and invite them. You normally would have to pay a deposit then you go along, get a cocktail demonstration (getting to mix a few yourself) then have a meal? Suggest some close friends go to a spa? I ended up having various things for my 40th but was more so cause people expected me to be doing stuff (not complaining though). When it came to family, I just went out for a nice meal with the immediate ones.

[eash]

Thanks for your ideas.