My own high school graduation party was not too many years ago. I also recently had my very own college graduation party! A graduation party truly is a special kind of party. Both college and high school graduation parties are events that should be memorable. Typically, it is an event bigger and more important than, say, prom or a Sweet Sixteen. A graduation party generally will be slightly sophisticated and include presents and congratulations toward the recent graduate.
Pick A Theme Any Theme
The theme for the party can be as conservative or wacky as you wish. I had a friend who had a “nerd themed” graduation party, and it was a blast! Your theme can be based on a t.v show, a set of colors, or just stuff the graduate likes. The possibilities are unlimited. Accessories and decorations will usually be part of your theme. You can usually find colored ribbons, non-specialized balloons, and general party favors at your local supermarket. I personally chose a theme that did not require special orders. My high school graduation party was vintage themed, and my college graduation party was botanical themed (bouquets of wildflowers, lavender and creme color decor). Ebay and Etsy are good online marketplaces for hard-to-find theme decor. Local party stores and Party City are also great.
Because You Have to Eat
Food is, of course, a big reason people like attending parties. Making your own food at home from scratch is quite charming and always unique, though requires considerable planning and time consuming. You might would rather choose catering. Both my graduation parties were a mix. My group made fun desserts and party bags, but we had finger foods catered in by my favorite restaurant. Just as important as tasty food is the presentation. At Party City I got several cute serving plates and stands. I had a delicate, tiered pastry stand and classy, clear disposable utensils. You can have a beverage table, dessert table, and food table in different sections. If you are having a large party you might need table and chairs to setup indoors or in your backyard/deck. Renting those or borrowing from your church or community center are all ideas. I myself borrowed a few long folding tables and chairs from my church. I bought in-theme table cloths and chair coverings, it looked amazing.
Lights, Music, Ambiance
The graduate’s favorite music is a definite must at the party. I myself did not have a DJ, but that would be a fun idea, and the guests could request songs. Not to mention the DJ would probably have a professional sound system. A laid-back, intimate party might not require crazy lights. If you plan on having dancing, disco lighting and flashing lights that flash to the beat of the beat of the music would be fun. Any supermarket or party store has paper lanterns and cool, low-lighting choices available. I attended a family graduation party which had a sort of “dance corner” indoors which had flashing lights, and the rest of the party area had rosebud shaped string lights atop the outside deck. After you decide the colors, theme, and food, the ambiance will flow naturally.
Let’s not forget the gift table! Providing take home party favors such as key-chains, soaps, and treats for your guests would be thoughtful. A graduation party is an event which will be fondly remembered. Feel free to be inspired by the above tips and ideas, as well as add your own personal touch and creativity.
