Summertime is around the corner and so is graduation! It’s an incredibly exciting time as it marks the first major achievement in a young adult’s life. Just as the post-high school plans will vary from one student to the next, a graduation party should be a distinctive reflection of the guest of honor. Here are 16 tips for your Class of 2017 graduate to have one fantastic party.

  • Set a theme and stick to it! Maybe it’s as simple as using your school’s colors or tying into the mascot of the college you’re set to attend in the fall. Either way, incorporate the elements as often as you can, from invitations to party favors.
  • Make the entrance into your party a memorable one. Use a life-sized cut out of the graduate, a giant balloon display, or if you’re going for a Hollywood theme, set up a backdrop and red carpet to make it look like an awards show.
  • Get creative with your presentations. Wrap your silverware in a white napkin with a black ribbon tied around the middle to look like a diploma or top cupcakes with a graduation cap made from chocolate cookies.
  • Instead of traditional cake, why not a candy bar that doubles as a play on words? Ring pops for class rings, anyone?
  • Another fun twist on dessert? An ice cream sundae bar! Fill jars with toppings and let guests entertain their inner child. Award prizes for most creative display!
  • Show off old photos of your graduate. Clip them to a hanging string or wire with mini clothespins. Use this same idea to display advice cards and have guests fill them out for the graduate to take home.
  • Use the graduate’s senior portrait as centerpieces on the tables. They can be grouped with flowers and candles or stand alone in a frame.
  • Save time on thank you cards and buy them ahead of time. Ask guests to fill out a blank envelope with their name and address before leaving.
  • Make an amusing time capsule station. Guests can write down messages for the graduate to open in 5, 10 or 15 years and put in favorites and mementos.
  • Use props. Stock up a basket with cheap sunglasses and throw a ‘Here’s to a Bright Future’ sign on the front.
  • Make your own photo booth! Amazon offers affordable packs of props (2017 signs, glasses, silly hats, etc.) and set up a Polaroid camera for guests to take photos. They can be taken home as favors or placed into an album to serve as a guest book with written sentiments and memories.
  • If your graduate is always on social media (and, let’s face it, who isn’t?) come up with a graduation hashtag and display it for guests to use while capturing exciting moments from the day.
  • Outdoor yard games are always a big hit. Things like cornhole, washers, giant Jenga or Connect Four will entertain guests and serve as a great investment for your parties and gatherings in the future!
  • Don’t concern yourself with hiring a DJ. Pandora and Spotify have a variety of playlists for whatever mood you’re in. Grab a couple Bluetooth speakers and you’re all set (another thing you can take home and use long after the party is over).
  • Send guests home with an edible favor, either store bought or homemade!
  • Last and certainly not least, have a blast! This is a party to celebrate, reminisce and congratulate the graduate as they move on the next, amazing chapter.

Bellport would love to host your grad. Give us a call or fill out an information request for details, review menu options and check on date availability!