Graduation Party Checklist

Planning a graduation party and not sure where to start? We can help! Our graduation party checklist will take you through every step to make sure you don’t forget a thing.

6 MONTHS TO 6 WEEKS BEFORE PARTY

• Make your guest list – don’t forget the parents of your grad’s friends, neighbors, coaches, mentors, and extra special teachers.
• Choose the location – keep in mind that at least half your guests will be teens (and you probably won’t know how many, until they show up).
• Set a date and time – try to avoid conflicts with close friends’ parties or your grad may be begging to leave his own party.
• Set the theme – it might be based on a favorite food, school colors, or an activity.
• Start collecting photos and memorabilia for party decorations – make digital copies of photos so you can use them in lots of ways.
• Decide on a menu and book caterer if using one – does your senior have a favorite food or restaurant?
• Order graduation party invitations – just enough for the adults on your list. (Check out our mini graduation announcements for classmates.)
• Order coordinating thank you cards and address labels, and stock up on stamps.

6 WEEKS TO 3 WEEKS BEFORE PARTY

• Mail graduation invitations to out-of-town guests 6 weeks before party – reserve hotel rooms, if needed.
• Mail invitations to local guests 3 weeks before party.
• Purchase non-perishable items (soda, water, paper plates) as you see them on sale.
• Confirm menu.
• Arrange for friends to help on the day of the party.
• Rent or borrow tent, tables & chairs, chafing dishes if needed.
• Make or buy graduation party decorations – table decor, custom yard signs and personalized napkins add color and fun.
• Work on your photo display with our graduation posters.

WEEK OF THE PARTY

• Clean house and yard (if you’re having party at home).
• Have your grad hand out mini graduation announcements at school.
• Finish decorations and/or photo display.
• Begin food prep.
• Make sure you have enough serving dishes and coolers for iced drinks.
• Set up tent and pick up tables & chairs.
• Designate a table or place for guests to set gifts, with a basket or box for cards.
• Start cooking (or confirm details with caterer).
• Talk to your grad about what you expect from them at the party.

DAY OF THE PARTY

• Put drinks on ice.
• Decorate tables.
• Put food out as guests arrive.
• Have your helpers replenish food and drinks so you can talk to guests.
• Relax & enjoy.