9 birthday options that aren’t a backyard BBQ

Another year older? Happy birthday! But with another year comes the stressful task of organising a celebration that will cater to you, your friends, and your family. You don’t have to be a city socialite to realise that while not impossible, it definitely puts a dampener on the grand plans you envision year after year for your big day. But this year, don’t settle for another birthday in your own backyard just because it seems ‘easier’. It’s time to branch out with six birthday options that’ll cater to your nearest and dearest without stomping on that celebration you’ve been just dying to throw.

1. High tea and bubbles

Whether it’s a flutter of anxiety about having another year creep up on you (don’t stress, you don’t look a day over 25), or work, life and family has gotten in the way of an all out celebratory bash, it’s often hard to make time for a little sparkly with your nearest girlfriends. Book a table at Darling & Co and feel the height of femme surrounded in draped fringing, boutique tables and a high tea to boot. Indulge in a selection of local favourite tea, West End Tea Co, while you enjoy an assortment of bites with your closest darlings, or go all out and order the Tanqueray G&T high tea set. Unique to Darling & Co, enjoy four gin-based cocktails and a selection of high tea bites.

2. Lunch and cocktails

Celebrating a milestone and need to fit the family into the equation? Don’t fall short by shoving them out the back by the barbecue, invite them to Darling & Co and show off your new favourite lunch venue to all your loved ones. Nothing will impress them more than sharing a dozen fresh oysters, or passing around a plate of Sunshine Coast yellowfin tuna tacos. Make it a liquid lunch and enjoy a selection of unique cocktails off our menu, made with passion and locally sourced small batch liquors and liqueurs.

3. Espresso martinis and finger food

Of course, if you want to throw everyone in the one room with an arancini ball in one hand and an espresso martini in the other, there’s no better place to mingle with everyone in your life than Darling & Co. Lay claim to one of our function spaces for an evening and party your night away with a selection of canapés and cocktails. Whether you’re inviting 50 of your closest friends or everyone in the extended family, office and all 6 friendship groups, we’ve got a space, a menu and a cocktail list with your name on it.

4. Gatsby Inspired Soiree

Are you about to hit a significant milestone? Don’t sell yourself short with an average backyard birthday party. Do something special that you are sure to remember. We suggest hosting a Great Gatsby-inspired soiree. The Garden room at Darling & Co is decorated with Gatsby-inspired geometric carpeting and can create the perfect magical atmosphere for an evening of 1920’s glitz and glamour. Your guests will love having the opportunity to dress up and step back in time. Add some extra magic to the evening with a classic champagne tower.

5. 80’s Themed Party

In case you haven’t heard, the 80’s are back. Finally! With puffy sleeves, leg warms and teased hair making a comeback on high fashion runways worldwide, there has never been a better time to release your inner Madonna or Whitney with an 80’s themed birthday party. Your guests won’t be able to stop themselves from hitting the dance floor when you crank up your epic playlist of 80’s bangers.

6. Classic Dinner Party

What could be a better way to celebrate your birthday than enjoying a feast with your favourite people. This is what makes the birthday dinner party a classic birthday choice. This year, save yourself the hassle of cooking and cleaning by booking a group dining experience at your favourite restaurant. Most birthday party venues offer group dining packages with a selection of dishes as well as a beverage package. High-quality food and drinks shared with even better company, this is a birthday formula that never fails.

7. Gourmet Picnic

For a low-key affair that lets you enjoy great company with minimal fuss, a birthday picnic is a great way to celebrate your birthday party in Brisbane. Choose one of our gorgeous parks and ask everyone to bring a plate, or consider a gourmet catered picnic to keep things super simple!

8. Bottomless Brunch

Consider a bottomless brunch for a fresh, great value option for a birthday party! Celebrate with friends over a delicious brunch, and carry the good vibes on with bottomless sparkling, mimosas, or Bloody Marys!

9. Weekend Away

For a birthday party theme that gets you out of Brisbane, a weekend trip to some of South East Queensland’s stunning hotspots is a great excuse to take a trip! Ditch town for the weekend and head to areas around Maleny, Lamington National Park, and Mount Mee to enjoy the serenity with a close group of friends or family.

Happy birthday to you indeed!