My 30th was in a local restaurant - about 80 guests. They paid a contribution (I think it was about $30 each) towards dinner and drinks were at bar prices. I was a single mum and couldn't afford much. Speeches was just me.

My 35th was at a different local restaurant. I hired an upstairs room with a DJ machine and supplied drinks. Each person was asked to contribute $25 for their dinner. I subsidized the rest and I think drinks too. A couple of speeches - my dad and myself plus one other. It was lovely.

Not sure what my 40th will hold!