GRAD PARTY PLANNING COUNTDOWN
Reaching senior year of high school
or college is an academic milestone
worthy of celebration. When the
time comes to start planning an epic graduation
party, getting the timeline correct
can make all the diff erence.
Once you learn the graduation date -
Graduation season occurs in a very limited
span of time between the months of May
and June. Th is creates high demand in a
limited window. Right after the school releases
the commencement date is a good
time to reserve a graduation party venue
if you are planning to have the party away
from home. Aim to host the party a day or
two after the graduation ceremony.
Four to fi ve months before - Now is the
time to begin thinking about what you
can aff ord to spend on the event. Th ink
about the timing of the party as well.
Because there are so many graduations
taking place, some people opt to have an
open time range for their own parties, so
graduates can hop around to each of their
friends’ parties.
Th ree months before - Although many
people now rely on digital invitations,
those who want to send paper invitations
can order them now to ensure they’ll get
shipped to your home in enough time to
mail out to guests. Also, it is a good idea
at this time to narrow down the guest list
so you will know how many invitations
you will need. Th ink about your theme and
coordinate with the invitation design or
color scheme.
Two months before - Mail out the invitations
to friends and family. If you will be
designing any do-it-yourself centerpieces
or other decorative items for the party,
such as marquee letters or lights, secure
these items now. If the graduation party
will be at home, reserve party tents, catering,
tables, chairs, and more at this time.
Six weeks before - Get in touch with
the restaurant or caterer to fi nalize menu
plans, including dessert. If you will be having
a DJ, go over any details about the party
as well, including a playlist the guest of
honor will love.
One month before - If the graduate prefers,
set up a graduation registry for gifts.
Use this time to create a slideshow of images
of the graduate throughout the years.
Finalize favors if you will be off ering them
and grab the materials necessary to make
them.
Two weeks before - Touch base with the
venue to give the fi nal head count and pay
off your remaining balance. If you will be
cooking, shop for and prepare any food
that can be frozen and then reheated.
One week before - Grab any last-minute
decor and fi gure out attire for the party.
Confi rm with all vendors that everything
is still on target for the graduation party
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date. Book hair or nail appointments so
the grad is photo-ready.
Day of the graduation party - Set up as
needed a few hours before the party. Chafing
dishes will require up to two hours to
heat food thoroughly, so plan accordingly.
Some venues allow you to arrive an hour
or two before the party time for decorating.
Get dressed with plenty of time to
spare, as there is always a guest or two who
arrives fashionably early. Th en be ready to
celebrate!
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