Graduation marks the end of one chapter of life and the beginning of another. To commemorate your accomplishment, why not throw an unforgettable party? Whether you are the graduating student or the parent of one, follow these tips to plan the perfect graduation party.
Dream Big and Don’t Hold Back
Start planning your event as early as possible to ensure everything comes together smoothly. The most memorable parties are those that involve a lot of effort. Don’t be afraid to splurge—great food, decorations, and entertainment will make yours the hottest ticket in town.
Set a Budget and Stick to It
An extravagant budget may mean that you’ll end up in debt after the party is over. Choose a budget range that you are comfortable with and stick to it. Prioritize the sets of investment, such as the venue and food, and cut out non-essential items to save money. A little creativity and smart planning can help you deliver an unforgettable party without breaking the bank.
Choose a Venue
Choose a venue that suits your budget and the size of your guest list. An open area such as a park or a garden will allow you to create a more relaxed atmosphere and set up activities for your guests to enjoy. If you’re planning for a more formal event, banquet rooms or restaurants can create a more elegant experience. Consider amenities such as parking and proximity to the location before you finalize your choice.
Send Invitations and Prepare a Guest List
Decide who you’d like to invite to your special day. You may want to consider inviting family, friends, colleagues, and mentors. Send out invitations as early as possible to give guests ample time to RSVP. Try to make it easier for everyone to get to your event by providing clear and specific directions. If you’re hosting the party at a venue, kindly remind your guests to RSVP so you can make appropriate arrangements.
Plan the Entertainment
Parties wouldn’t be parties without fun and games. Plan a variety of activities to entertain your guests and get them involved. Good choices are DJs, bands, photo booths, and mingling games. For a more casual event, you can opt for a barbecue, potluck, or campfire. Keep guests entertained with activities that cater to different age groups, music preferences, and fitness levels.
Food and Drinks
Once you’ve set your guest list and budget, it’s time to decide on the menu. Food and drinks are essential components of a great graduation party. Choose a variety of dishes and beverages to cater to different tastes. Consider food allergies and dietary restrictions when planning the menu. It’s best to use a caterer when preparing a large amount of food, but you can always opt for simpler choices such as a potluck-style dinner. Consider hiring bartenders if you’re planning to serve alcoholic beverages.
Provide Transportation
Your guests are likely to partake in the celebration, so you’ll need to ensure their safety. If the party takes place in an area that is not easily accessible by public transportation, consider arranging a shuttle service. If you’re serving alcoholic beverages, advertise safe transportation options such as Uber or taxis. You may also want to designate a group of sober drivers to take guests home.
Decorate the Venue
Once you’ve chosen your venue, decide on the theme and colors of your party. Think carefully about the mood you want to create and use decorations to set the tone of the event. Take into account the size of the venue when deciding on the number of decorations and make sure to create a cohesive look. Bright and bold colors are always a hit at graduation parties.
Capture the Moments
Photographs make great keepsakes, so book a professional photographer in advance to capture the moments of the day. Create a photo booth area with fun props to give your guests a way to capture the memories. Ask someone you trust to be in charge of capturing candid photographs.
Thank Your Guests
Take the time to thank your guests for attending and for their support if you are the graduate. Consider giving out small tokens of appreciation such as personalized thank-you cards, a custom-made graduation cap, or lighthearted keepsakes. Take the time to personally thank each of your guests for attending.
Planning the perfect graduation party is easier said than done, but it’s an experience that will be cherished for a lifetime. With the right preparation and a little creativity, your event will be remembered for many years to come.