By Rose Smith
Spring is in the air and many students and their families are starting to look forward to graduation! What a moment in history to be graduating! Make your grad’s party extra special this year AND keep it safe(r) for your guests with a bit of thoughtful planning.
1) Yard Games Party
Are you in a part of the world that is allowing gatherings? Of all years, summer 2021 is a great year for a backyard summer BBQ graduation party. Let the fresh air and a spacious setting ease everyone back into the ritual of partying! Add a few yard games to give people a way to mingle while they celebrate. Check out our full blog on exactly that! Spoiler: it’s a timeless party idea that translates well with pandemic considerations. Design personalized stadium cups and custom napkins to add to your décor.
2) Create a “Key to Success” Station
One bittersweet element about graduations is that most grads are on the cusp of the unknown as face the future. Give your grad a boost of confidence and good advice by creating a compilation of wisdom offered by their graduation party guests. If you’re having an in-person party this year, set up a table with notecards and pens for your guests to write their wisdom on. Or, ask your guests to bring their notes already written to the party! If pandemic traveling concerns are limiting your guest list, create a video montage of your loved ones who are unable to come to the party offering some sage advice!
3) Choose a Memorable Theme
A great graduation party starts with a fun, memorable theme that reflects your unique graduate. Whether your graduate wants a boho graduation party, a glittering graduation party or one themed around their next alma mater’s colors and mascot, make sure the party feels personal to them. There are plenty of creative ways to personalize the party, from custom napkins to crafty DIY graduation party favors to personalized yard signs.
4) Plan an Activity or Trip
If your family isn’t in a position quite yet to host a party, a fun pandemic-safe activity or trip is a good alternative. Are you close to a lovely lakefront? Or within a couple of hours of the beach? Plan a memorable excursion to celebrate this important milestone of graduation! For a fun bonus, personalize some graduation koozies for a useful favor from your big day!
5) Keep it COVID Conscious
No matter how you celebrate this year, it will still be important to keep things COVID conscious. If you’re hosting a gathering, be sure to provide personalized masks and sanitizers for all in attendance. Everyone will feel a sense of relief to know that those essentials are covered!
This year, make the most of celebrating your graduate within the bounds that you feel comfortable. Most importantly, make sure they feel seen, appreciated and ready to begin the next season of life with your full support!