The Ned London, 40th Birthday
VIBHA & KARAN'S JOINT 40TH
We celebrated not one, but two, 40th Birthdays at The Ned in London
Planning a celebration at The Ned in London is always an exquisite experience, and when Vibha and Karan approached me to organise their joint 40th birthday bash, I knew it would be an unforgettable event. Their birthdays, being only two weeks apart, made for the perfect reason to throw one grand celebration. As a London wedding planner, I'm accustomed to orchestrating memorable events, and this one was destined to be a spectacular night.
From the moment guests stepped into The Ned, they were embraced by an atmosphere of elegance and anticipation. The large round reception desk played a pivotal role in our carefully curated guest flow. Each guest received an escort card that guided them to their designated table for the dinner later in the evening. This seamless touch not only ensured organization but also added a personal welcome moment as guests mingled.
In the Saloon, with its 18th-century chandelier and restored parquet floor, guests were greeted with champagne and canapés. The ornate chalk frieze added a touch of historical grandeur, perfectly complemented by the soft glow of Diptyque candles, filling the room with a delightful aroma. The setting was nothing short of magical.
Vibha and Karan's dinner took place in the Tapestry Room, a space renowned for its original walnut panelling and magnificent crystal chandeliers. The room’s namesake, a stunning pastoral tapestry from the 1920s, enveloped the walls, creating a breathtaking backdrop. The table design was a true reflection of Vibha’s love for vibrant colours. We chose a trendy pink and green combination, showcased in the flowers and the patterned tablecloths, with alternating menu colours adding an extra layer of charm. The glow of candlelight and the sparkle of crystal-cut glassware completed the enchanting tablescape. "Everything came together so beautifully," Vibha remarked, capturing the essence of the evening.
The dinner was a sophisticated affair, but the real transformation happened in the blink of an eye when we reset the Saloon for dancing. The after-party was nothing short of spectacular, with a giant balloon installation around the stage and ceiling, including silver mirror balloons that floated overhead, creating a whimsical and celebratory vibe. "What an EPIC night," Vibha said. "It still feels like a dream! A pinch me moment."
An old Photoautomat photobooth was a crowd favourite, offering black and white prints that guests could take home as keepsakes. As guests transitioned from the dinner area to the party room, they were treated to bespoke cocktails, keeping the festive spirit alive.
The entertainment was a hit from start to finish. A lively brass band set the tone, followed by a DJ who kept the dance floor buzzing late into the night. The pièce de résistance was a colossal pink and red birthday cake that we rolled onto the dance floor. As the band played an instrumental version of Happy Birthday, Vibha and Karan blew out the candles together, marking a moment they would cherish forever. "Thank you everyone for making the night so so so SPECIAL," Vibha exclaimed. "It is one I will never forget. It was beyond mine and Karan’s wildest dreams."
"Still on a massive high from such an awesome night with the most amazing friends and family," Vibha reflected. "I just didn’t want it to end!! Thank you, Emma, for making this SO absolutely incredible."
Vibha and Karan's testimonial truly captures the essence of the night. It was a dream turned reality, an evening filled with laughter, joy, and unforgettable moments.
As a seasoned London wedding planner, the skills required to organize a flawless wedding are directly transferable to other grand celebrations. Whether it's an engagement party, a milestone birthday like Vibha and Karan's, or even a summer soirée, the principles remain the same. Detailed planning, a keen eye for design, and a deep understanding of what makes an event special are at the core of every successful gathering.
For engagement parties, the same level of personalisation and attention to detail ensures that the couple's unique love story is beautifully told. Milestone birthdays are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate life’s significant moments with style and flair, much like we did for Vibha and Karan. Summer parties benefit from creative outdoor settings and playful themes, making use of seasonal elements to enhance the experience.
The Ned London offers a remarkable venue for any event, from weddings to milestone birthdays. Its historic charm and versatile spaces make it a preferred choice for creating unforgettable memories. As a planner, leveraging such a venue's potential is both a joy and a challenge that brings out the best in creativity and organizational prowess.
Planning Vibha and Karan's 40th birthday at The Ned was an honour. The evening was a testament to how meticulous planning and a touch of creativity can turn any event into a cherished memory. Whether you're planning a wedding, a milestone birthday, or any other special occasion, know that with the right expertise and vision, your event can be everything you dream of and more.
Design, Styling and Planning | Emma Jane Weddings
Photographer | Faye Wilde Photography
Videographer | Freya Film Co
Venue | The Ned London