Monday November 2008
"When Jay and I first started looking at locations to host our joint 40th birthday party we were struck by the fact that we had to find a property that could accommodate at least 30 adults and quite a number of very young children. Most of the places we looked at were either too big, too small, too expensive or too remote. We spent many hours searching the internet when Jay stumbled on Eaton Manor.
The idea of various houses close together was quite appealing as it meant we could place people with babies in one area and those without children in another. The price for Toad Hall, Curlew Cottage, Eaton Manor and Woodpecker was reasonable and the location was perfect, nestled in the Shropshire countryside.
In addition, having the luxury of a team of people on site to cook and serve dinner and breakfast was key. Once we had made the decision to opt for Eaton we visited the location before hand so as to meet Nichola and Jane and discuss our plans for the weekend. These discussions enabled us to build an itinerary for the weekend.
Subsequently, we allocated rooms, menu choices and times for dinner and breakfast were set. We also booked a babysitter for one house via Jane (though this can also be done through Nichola) so the adults could dine and relax child-free for at least one evening. Though the itinerary was met with a few humorous comments from friends, without it chaos would have prevailed, with so many people and children you need a level of organisation.
As the weekend dawned upon us we arrived to the houses which were presented beautifully and was greeted by homemade cakes and complimentary bottle of wine in each house was a welcoming sight.
Because of the space in Toad Hall everyone met there on Friday evening for drinks and a catch up. On the Saturday people chose to do a variety of activities from walking in the beautiful countryside to visiting the historic town of Ludlow. On the Saturday night we decided to feed the children early at Eaton Manor before meeting the babysitter and settling the babies into bed.
We then had the luxury of gorgeous canapes served to us with a Champagne reception at Eaton Manor whilst Jane and her team set the tables for our evening meal. After canapes we all moved over to Toad Hall. The tables were stunningly set and accommodated all 34 people comfortably. Everyone was very impressed and the food was gorgeous. It set us up for a few hours of dancing and we didn't even have to do the washing up. Sunday morning breakfast was served by Jane and her team in Toad Hall and once again the food was delicious. It was a great way for everyone to come together and make plans for the Sunday.
It was a brilliant weekend!"
Again, thanks a million and look forward to seeing you in the near future!
Sincerest regards
Jay & Amanda"