How to Throw a Graduation Party

Spring means different things to different people. To many, it means warmer temperatures, flowers in bloom, or finally being able to wear flip-flops again. To the average high school or college senior, it usually represents only one thing: graduation is on the horizon. To that student’s parents, it suggests something else entirely: time to start planning the graduation party.
Graduation is an important achievement, and a reason to celebrate. It is a time to welcome friends and family who are excited to honor the graduate’s many accomplishments. Often this happy gathering takes place at home.
This can mean added stress for the graduate and his or her parents. As much as you love your friends and family, do you want a steady flow of guests streaming through the house? Do you even have enough room to accommodate everyone? Where will everyone sit? And what are some good ways to keep the focus on the guest of honor?

Here are a few tips for making your graduation party a stress-free success:

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Rent a tent. A tent is the easiest solution for a lack of space indoors; even if you’d like to entertain some guests in the house, a small tent in the backyard is great for overflow. A frame tent can be used on the driveway, as much as doubling the space provided by your garage.

2. Reserve rental items early. Most graduation parties seem to take place on the same weekends in late May and early June, so book items as soon as you are comfortable putting down a deposit. If you aren’t sure what you need, just ask.

3. Highlight the guest of honor. Have a life-size cut-out made of the grad. Invent a fruity, summery signature drink or “mocktail”- and name it after them. Create a “Graduation Gallery”- designate a wall in your house to hang pictures, awards, college plans, and their diploma.

4. Make it fun. Rent a moonwalk- great for any age- or plan other activities such as volleyball. Or, instead of the usual tables and chairs, group low couches and end tables in the yard to create cosy lounge areas. Set up a candy, sno cone or nacho “bar”- a fun spin on party food.

5. Go green. Renting is a great way to help the environment- reduce waste by renting table linens, plates, glasses, and silverware. Or set up cute recycling stations for aluminum cans, plastic, and glass. Donate money made from cans to the grad’s college or student loan fund. Every little bit helps!

6. The most important thing is to create an environment in which you and the graduate will feel comfortable, one that reflects his or her interests and personality. If you are relaxed and able to enjoy yourself, your guest will follow
   suit!