Graduation is a significant milestone in any student's life, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of a new one. As a result, it's only natural that you want to celebrate this achievement with a memorable and fun graduation party.
However, planning a graduation party can be overwhelming, especially if you've never planned one before. That's why we've put together 6 tips to help you plan the perfect graduation party:
Start planning early
Choose the right venue
Opt for a theme
Personalize your decorations
Plan your menu
Don’t forget entertainment and activities
With some mindful preparations, you can rest assured that your party will be talked about for years to come!
P.S. Planning on a budget? Don’t miss our blog, “How to Host a Graduation Party on a Budget.”
Are you ready to party? Book Modern Moments today!
If you need a venue to host your upcoming graduation party, look no further than Modern Moments. We have a 1,200-square-foot indoor venue that’s climate-controlled, so you won’t have to worry about beating the AZ summer heat. It also comes with a stunning green nature wall that’s ideal for Instagram-worthy photo ops!
Want to celebrate outdoors? We have a modern garage-style door that opens up to our elegant brick patio with string lights, as well as our sound stage and lush green event lawn.
Come see us in person at our next open house event, or book a private tour below. We’ll be happy to answer all your questions about pricing, availability, vendors, and more. We can't wait to help you celebrate this special milestone!
Tip #1: Start Planning Early
One of the most important tips for planning a successful graduation party is to start planning early. Graduation season is a busy time of year, and venues and vendors can quickly become booked up. Therefore, it's essential to start planning your party at least 2-3 months in advance to ensure you can secure your desired venue, catering, and other services.
Set a date for your graduation party as soon as possible. This will give you a timeline to work with and allow you to start booking services and vendors. Additionally, make a to-do list to ensure that you don't forget anything important. Some things to consider adding to your to-do list might include:
Choosing a venue
Hiring a caterer
Ordering decorations
Renting tables and chairs
Sending out invitations
By starting your planning process early and keeping a to-do list, you'll be able to stay on top of everything and ensure that your party runs smoothly.
Tip #2: Choose the Right Venue
The venue will set the tone for the entire event, so it's essential to choose a space that fits your vision and your budget.
For starters, consider the number of guests you plan to invite. You'll want to choose a space that can comfortably accommodate all of your guests without feeling crowded. Additionally, consider the location of the venue. Is it close enough to drive to? Is there ample parking? And is it accessible for elderly guests, such as grandparents?
Other factors to consider when choosing a venue include the availability of tables, chairs, and other amenities you may need. Some venues may provide these items as part of their rental fee, while others may require you to rent them separately.
Finally, consider the overall atmosphere of the venue. Does it fit the theme and tone of your graduation party? Does it have any unique features that would make it stand out, such as natural greenery, indoor and outdoor spaces, or a charming ambiance? By taking the time to choose the right venue, you'll be able to create a memorable and enjoyable graduation party for you and your guests.
Tip #3: Opt for a Theme
Choosing a theme or color scheme for your graduation party can help to tie everything together and create a cohesive and festive atmosphere. Some popular graduation party themes include "Oh, the Places You'll Go!" (based on the Dr. Seuss book), "Keys to Success" (with decorations featuring keys and locks), or a "Class of 2023" theme that incorporates the graduate's school colors.
When selecting a color scheme, consider using the graduate's school colors or favorite colors as a starting point. You can then incorporate these colors into everything from the decorations to the food and drinks.
Tip #4: Personalize Your Decorations
Decorations are an essential part of any graduation party, as they help set the mood and create a festive atmosphere. To make your graduation party truly special, consider personalizing your decorations.
For example, you could create a photo wall with pictures of the new grad throughout their life or academic career. You could also use the grad's favorite colors or incorporate their hobbies and interests into the decor. Personalized decorations not only create a unique and memorable experience but also show them how much you care.
Another way to personalize your decorations is by creating a theme for your party. For example, you could choose a beach theme, a vintage theme, or a sports theme, depending on the new grad's interests. This can help tie all your decorations together and make your party more cohesive.
When it comes to decorations, the sky's the limit. But if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed or don’t have time to plan, Modern Moments has you covered. We offer professional event planning services and can refer you to top décor rental companies and vendors in Phoenix’s East Valley!
Tip #5: Plan Your Menu
No party is complete without food and drinks, so it's important to plan a menu that will satisfy your guests. Consider serving a mix of sweet and savory items, as well as some vegetarian and gluten-free options for guests with dietary restrictions.
Some popular food ideas for graduation parties include finger foods like sliders, chicken wings, and quesadillas, as well as sweet treats like cupcakes and cookies. You may also want to consider setting up a dessert bar with a variety of sweets for guests to choose from.
For drinks, consider serving a mix of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, depending on the age of your guests. Lemonade, iced tea, and soda are all great non-alcoholic options, while beer, wine, and cocktails can be served to guests who are of legal drinking age.
Tip #6: Entertainment and Activities
Finally, don't forget to plan some entertainment and activities for your guests. This can include everything from music and dancing to games and activities like cornhole or giant Jenga. (Modern Moments has fun yard games for rent – just ask and we’ll be happy to review them with you!)
You may also want to consider creating a slideshow or video presentation featuring photos and memories from the graduate's school years. This can be a great way to celebrate their accomplishments and create a sentimental moment during the party.
In addition, you can provide guests with party favors like personalized photo frames or keychains as a way to thank them for attending and to commemorate the occasion.
Ready to make your graduation party a truly unforgettable experience?
Look no further than Modern Moments, a hidden gem in the heart of Phoenix’s East Valley. Our charming and affordable indoor/outdoor venue is perfect for gatherings of all sizes, and we provide everything you need to make your celebration a success, including tables, chairs, and a dedicated day-of coordinator to assist with all the details.
Contact us today to schedule a free tour and let our friendly staff answer all your questions about catering, decoration rentals, and more. We can't wait to help you create the perfect event!