Graduation is a big deal—it’s the closing of one chapter and the leap into a new adventure. Planning a graduation party is all about celebrating this huge milestone.
But where do you start? Don’t worry; planning a graduation party event doesn’t have to be stressful. It can be pretty fun to put together a party that reflects the graduate’s personality and preferences.
This guide is here to take you step by step through the process, ensuring you cover all the important details.
How to Plan a Graduation Party – 6 Steps
Planning a graduation party doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Follow these six straightforward steps to ensure the graduation party is a success.
1. Decide on a Budget
Begin your planning by determining how much money you can spend on the graduation party. This involves closely examining your finances and deciding on the maximum amount you can spend.
Once you have your total budget, break it into categories such as venue rental, food and beverage, decorations, entertainment, and additional costs like photography or party favours. Make sure to set aside about 10% of your total budget for unexpected costs that may arise.
2. Prepare a Guest List
Creating a guest list is one of the first steps you should take when planning your graduation party. Think about all the people who have been a part of the graduate’s journey – this includes family members, friends, classmates, teachers, and mentors.
A public records search (like the one here) can be useful to find the current contact information of people, ensuring that you can reach out to everyone who would love to be a part of the graduate’s special day.
3. Choose the Right Venue
Selecting a venue is a critical step in the planning process. The number of guests, the weather forecast, and your budget are all factors that will influence your choice. If your home can accommodate your guests and you’re looking to save money, it can be a great option.
For larger parties, you may need to rent a space. When researching venues, consider the location, availability, capacity, and what is included in the rental fee. Some places may provide tables and chairs, while others require you to rent them separately.
Book your venue early to ensure it’s available on your desired date.
4. Focus on Decorations
Begin by selecting a colour palette; typically, the graduate’s school colours are a great choice. Purchase balloons in these colours and consider adding metallic or pearl finishes for an extra touch of festivity.
Banners are another key decoration. Opt for a congratulatory message that can be customised with the graduate’s name and the year. This can be placed above the main gathering area or across the front door. For table decorations, create simple yet elegant centrepieces. You could use flowers in coordinating colours.
Don’t forget about lighting. If your party goes into the evening, string lights can softly illuminate the space, providing a warm and welcoming glow. You can drape them around the food table, the main gathering area, or even outdoors if part of your party is outside.
5. Craft a Menu
When it comes to the menu for your graduation party, you want to make sure there’s something for everyone. Start by deciding whether to offer a full meal or just snacks and appetisers. The time of your party will help you decide the menu; for example, guests will likely expect more than just light bites if the party is around lunch or dinner.
Next, think about the foods that will be easy to eat while mingling. Finger foods and items that don’t require constant heating can be more convenient. You can include mini sandwiches, a variety of wraps, a cheese and cracker spread, or a veggie tray.
For dessert, consider a dessert table with bite-sized options like cupcakes, cookies, or a candy bar that matches your colour theme.
6. Plan Entertainment and Activities
For a graduation party, you’ll want to plan activities and entertainment that will keep guests engaged and make the event memorable. Think about what the graduate enjoys and try to incorporate those elements into the party.
Classic party games like charades or Pictionary are always popular and easy to set up. They get everyone involved, whether they’re playing or watching.
For those who enjoy a bit of competition, you might include some board games, card games, or even video games set up on a TV.
In addition to games, have a well-thought-out playlist, or if possible, hire a local band or a DJ to bring some live music to the party. And of course, leave some space for dancing. It’s a celebration, after all, and a chance for everyone to let loose and have fun.
Final Thoughts on Planning a Graduation Party
To ensure the graduation party is a success, start by setting a realistic budget that will frame your entire plan. From there, build a comprehensive guest list to celebrate this occasion with those who’ve been integral in the graduate’s life.
Selecting the right venue is next—it should be a space that fits comfortably within your budget while still accommodating all your guests. The food should include a range of options that appeal to various tastes and dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy the feast.
Decorations are crucial, too. They bring the party to life, so choose items that create a festive atmosphere like balloons, a banner, centrepieces, etc.
With careful attention to each of these elements, you’ll be able to throw the best graduation party ever.
