The Big Four Oh

There are milestones we acknowledge and then there are milestones we celebrate – when my little brother hit the big 40, the celebration was on! Honouring his birthday by throwing an intimate party was such a thoughtful touch and such a fun way to ring in a new decade in his life (as a soon-to-be married man!) 

Although this celebration was before the outbreak of the Corona Virus, we are (mostly) now allowed to have intimate outdoor gatherings to celebrate birthdays etc., as well as spend quality time with loved ones who we’ve missed so much! I think now more than ever, we all really value these moments as it’s an opportunity to spend time with the people we care about, who we may have been separated from over the last 3 months. A very difficult, but worthy task, social distancing rules are now becoming a little easier, and with that said- I want to share all my party tips with you guys, even if it’s just for 10 people! 

The party was simple: great food, great music, great company! All the necessary ingredients for a great time. I’ve worked with a few different caterers before, and depending on the occasion, Montreal has no shortage of incredible chefs and at-home services. For Charles’ 40th, there were two incredible caterers that worked alongside each other to deliver sumptuous treats in the most eye-catching way.

Hanna Hajilou from À la table showed off her unique talent by creating the most beautiful and delicious grazing table Filled with healthy snacks and yummy spreads, our guests had a chance to taste all kinds of treats without having to hold back. Whether it was crudité or finger foods, there was a wide selection to choose from. @alatable always does such a wonderful job of showcasing simplicity, colour, food pairs.

Combined with the artistry of grazing tables was La Brera Catering Company that truly brought the best of the best with the most delectable pass around foods. Sometimes it’s the way food is prepared that makes it so enticing and at other times it’s the way it’s served that makes it impossible to pass up, but with @traiteur_brera it’s the combo of both that made everyone ooh and ahh. That, plus the oyster bar, I mean, what a night!

If you know my family at all, then you know that there is no such thing as a party (or even a regular night hanging with friends) without music! We are a family of music lovers – and what better way to party than with 3 DJs playing a set that brings everyone to the dance floor / living room (lo!). DJ Unknown, my hubby and my brother are all versed in the DJ life, and throughout the night, they each had a chance to bring us to our feet.

When we get together, we go hard! It reminds me of how I grew up: surrounded by people, good times and laughter. An abundance of food and no shortage of loved ones. Mariela thought of every detail and created an atmosphere of love and unparalleled warmth. Uninhibited and carefree, we were all gathered for the same purpose: to celebrate life! Cut to my mom dancing on the kitchen island by the end of the night… I mean that is what memories are made of.

50 people, 1 house, and a BIG reason to celebrate – Happy Birthday Charles!

Photography by Patricia Brochu