Graduations

This Big Accomplishment. . .
deserves to be celebrated in a big way. So you're sure to want to make your child's graduation party special. And so do we.

Because celebrations are our business. Over the years, we've sold millions of party goods for special celebrations - and we've picked up a tip or two along the way. We're happy to share these tips with you.

First, The Basics

Planning a large party can seem like a monumental task. But if you focus on advanced planning and stay organized, your child's graduation party is sure to be one he'll remember fondly for years to come. Not sure where to begin? Start here with these basic steps:

Make up your guest list. Be sure to include family, friends, classmates, teammates and others who'll help make this occasion a special one.
Select the date and time. While usually held the day of the graduation ceremony, you may want to consider picking the weekend before or after - particularly if your child wants to celebrate with other graduates.
Pick the location. Your home can be an intimate and a lower cost location, restaurants, catering halls and other outside venues tend to lose that personal touch. Talk to friends and caterers to get ideas.
Establish the theme or style for the event.
Purchase and send out invitations. Make sure to include all pertinent information, such as directions, or any special gift suggestions.
Ask friends and family for vendor recommendations. Think caterers, servers, musicians, rental companies, florists and decorators. Once you've chosen your vendors, confirm all arrangements in writing - and again a few days prior to the event.
Set a budget and time schedule. Once you've selected your vendors, keep to the budget and timetable, and refer to it frequently to make sure you stay on solid ground.
Shop for decorations and favors. There are many styles to choose from - and you can add your own ideas.
Double check every detail. Keep a detailed "to do" list leading up to the event. Write down those items you want to buy, call about, or double check - along with timelines - and check off items as the party planning progresses.

Now, Make it Personal.

Make your child's graduation party special - and uniquely their own. Here are few ideas to get you started.

Say "Thanks for the Memories".

Photos are a great way to add that personal touch. Feature a photo of the graduate on the invitation, in table centerpieces, or in a montage displayed at the party. Or ask each guest to bring their favorite photo for display. Make "new" memories by providing a disposable party camera at each table.

For the High School Graduate

Show their school spirit! In addition to traditional graduation decorations, add their high school - or better yet, college - colors to your decorations with streamers, balloons, etc. For that added touch, hang school flags, t-shirts, etc., then give them to the graduate as an extra gift.

For the College Graduate

Bring their chosen profession into the mix. Add the "tool of the trades" to your decorations, e.g., medical supplies for the med school graduate, or the "scales of justice" for your pre-law or law school grad.

What About the Gift?

While a cash gift is usually always appropriate for a graduate, there are other fabulous gifts they're sure to appreciate.

For the High School Graduate

Graduates heading off to college are sure to appreciate one of the following: a pre-paid phone calling card, a gift certificate to help the outfit their dorm room, to the campus bookstore, or popular clothing store; a monthly cleaning service, or year's supply of "junk food" delivered to their dorm.

For the College Graduate

Help the graduate take that next step with: the services of a professional resume writer; a supply of personalized business stationery for sending out resumes; a portfolio or briefcase; a consultation with a "dress for success" professional, or a gift certificate to a business apparel retailer.

Supplies Checklist

Invitations
Postage stamps
Food/beverages
Cake
Guest Book
Paper goods (i.e., tablecloths, plates, napkins, cutlery, cups)
Centerpieces
Favors
Balloons and helium
Streamers
Confetti
Giftwrap, bows, ribbons
Banners/lawn sign
Favors
Gift