(Family Features) Graduation marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, a significant milestone worth celebrating. However, planning a graduation party can be overwhelming.
To host a memorable celebration for your graduate, consider these tips to help take the stress out of planning.
Set a Budget and Make a Guest List
When planning a graduation party, it’s important to start by setting a budget and creating a guest list. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and allocate funds for different aspects, such as food, decorations and entertainment, which can help you stay organized and ensure you don’t overspend.
Next, create a guest list of family members, friends and classmates you want to invite. Consider the size of the venue and your budget when finalizing the guest list. It’s also a good idea to send invitations out well in advance to give guests enough time to RSVP.
Choose the Perfect Theme
The theme of a graduation party can help set the tone and create a memorable experience for guests. When selecting a theme, consider the graduate’s interests, hobbies and future plans. For example, if he or she is going to college, have a college-themed party with decorations and activities related to the chosen university.
Other ideas include having guests bring items that represent memories with the graduate and creating a time capsule to be opened in the future or a travel theme with wanderlust-inspired decorations, food from different countries and activities that celebrate adventure.
Determine Decor
Personalize the party by incorporating elements unique to your graduate’s achievements and personality. Display diplomas, awards and photos throughout the venue. You can also create a photo collage or slideshow showcasing his or her journey from kindergarten to graduation. Remember to match the color scheme to the overall theme of the party and use lighting, such as string lights, candles or lanterns, to help set the right ambiance.
Organize Food and Drink Options
Food and drinks are an important aspect of any party. Based on your budget and the style or party, decide whether you want to have a sit-down dinner, buffet or finger foods. You can hire a caterer, ask friends and family to contribute dishes or prepare the food yourself if you enjoy cooking. Don’t forget to have a variety of beverages available, including non-alcoholic options, and consider any dietary restrictions or preferences of your guests when planning the menu.
Get creative with your food and drinks by incorporating graduation-themed treats. For example, you can serve cupcakes decorated as graduation caps or cookies shaped like diplomas and create a signature drink that represents the graduate or his or her future plans. You can give it a fun name and serve it in personalized glasses.
Plan Entertainment and Activities
To keep guests entertained throughout the party, plan fun activities and entertainment. Consider hiring a DJ or creating a playlist of your graduate’s favorite songs to keep the energy up. You can also set up a dance floor or karaoke station for guests to enjoy. Also consider activities like a photo booth with props, trivia game about the graduate or memory jar where guests can write down their favorite memories with the graduate.
If your graduate has any specific hobbies or interests, try to include them in the entertainment. For example, if he or she loves sports, organize a friendly pickup game or set up a mini sports area for guests to enjoy.
Find more ideas to plan a memorable graduation party at eLivingtoday.com.
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