How to Conduct Yourself at a Divorce Party

Divorce parties are quickly becoming a popular way for the newly-single to mark the end of one life and the beginning of another. Anything goes in this party frontier, from an all-out bash to a girls' night out. You might play games, witness ceremonies, or even see the ex. There are no rules here--just a focus on moving on.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Party budget
• Party location

Conduct Yourself as a Divorce Party Guest

1. Feel free to bring a gift or card. Many greeting card companies now make lighthearted divorce cards. A gift can be something small, like a fun DVD or book, or something practical to replace items lost during the split. Some stores even offer divorce registries.
2. Go with the flow and be supportive. Let the honoree dictate the mood. Divorce parties offer one last chance to vent about the ex before moving on, but don't be the one to start it.
3. Be prepared. Divorce party activities may include ceremonies to burn remnants of married life, reclaim maiden names, dart throwing, voodoo dolls and pinata smashing.
4. Make sure the honoree gets home okay. Consider being the designated driver or have the number of a taxi service on-hand.

Conduct Your Own Divorce Party

5. Ask yourself what kind of party you want. Whether it's a laid-back barbecue, a singles bash, or weekend road trip, make arrangements well in advance to minimize stress.
6. Make your invitation list. Guests are usually supportive friends and family members, but some divorces are so civil that even the ex-spouse is invited.
7. Keep the mood light, starting with festive invitations. People may not know how to conduct themselves at a divorce party. Make sure they know you're doing something positive for yourself.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask friends for ideas, consult divorce party guides or hire a divorce party planner (see Resources below).
• Wait to hold your bash until you're officially divorced. The party should be the very last part of your divorce.
• Consider holding a divorce ceremony (see Resources below).
• Do not include your children at your divorce party, even if they're adults. Negative comments about your ex can put them in an awkward position. The exception may be a divorce ceremony where both parents are present.
• Bring your spouse only if you've both been invited.

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