Planning a High School Graduation Party

Budget

Set a budget. A budget is the foundation upon which a party is built. Without it, costs can easily spiral out of control. Figure out how much you can or want to spend. Be realistic. Costs add up quickly. If finances are tight, remember your party is a celebration of your graduate's journey into adulthood. A meaningful and memorable party does not have to be an expensive party.

Guest List

Compose a guest list. Sit down with your graduate and determine what guests to invite. Do you plan on an intimate family gathering or a large soiree with family, friends and graduates? If inviting relatives, be sure your list is inclusive to avoid hurt feelings. If many of the graduate's friends will be invited, stick to your limit. With computer networking sites, word spreads quickly.

Date

Pick a date. High school graduation is an important milestone, and the summer will be filled with graduation parties. To ensure guests important to your graduate will be able to attend, choose a date carefully. Consider travel time for out-of-town guests. Try to avoid a date when your graduate's close friends are having parties. Send out invitations early. It's not uncommon for guests to receive more than one invitation for the same date.

Location

Pick a place. Many graduation parties take place at home. A backyard get-together with a garage or tent for food and inclement weather is convenient for the host and easy for guests to find. But a graduation party can be held anywhere. If you need more space or simply do not want the mess, consider a favorite park, community center or club as options. Be sure any rentals are booked far in advance.

Menu

Plan a menu. This is your party; make the menu as extravagant or simple as you want. Consult your graduate. Would he prefer cake and beverages? Maybe a cook-out with favorite side dishes? Or perhaps a Mexican fiesta? Be creative. Remember your budget. Food and beverages can be expensive. Resist the temptation to serve alcoholic beverages to the graduates. Providing alcohol to minors is illegal.

Personal Touches

Personalize the party. A high school graduation party celebrates the achievements of the graduate, so show them off. Picture boards and scrapbooks are a great way to showcase accomplishments. Water bottle labels and candy bar wrappers can be personalized with names and dates. Or give your party a theme. Did your graduate travel abroad? Maybe she was an artist? Incorporate your graduate's personality and passions into the party. Use some imagination to make your party unique to your graduate.

Resources

• Graduation party ideas and links