Graduation Party Planning Checklist

6 Weeks before the party

q Check calendar and call school to get schedule of events

q Decide if you want to co-host with other parents

q Start collecting memorabilia and assembling scrapbook or boards

q Determine budget

q Pick date & location

q Call or stop by a rental company to see all the fun stuff for rent - order your

tables, chairs and tent

q Call caterers or local restaurants for bids

q Decide on a theme, call for entertainment prices

q Order or start making invitations

q Start on invitation list

q Select caterer or ask a friend to help

q Rent tables, games, serving equipment?

q Buy thank you notes, stamps and return address labels

q Buy paper plates, napkins, silverware, glasses, etc.

q Buy decorations, including a centerpiece

q Order food & beverages

q Mail invitations 3 weeks before the party

q Buy cards and gifts for your graduate and friends

q Find a place for your pets

q Finish scrapbook or board

q Save or buy containers for left over food

The week of the party

q Pick up food & beverages

q Buy extra film and batteries and charge video batteries

q Send invitations to school with your graduate

q Wrap gifts for graduate and friends

q Make cardholder and set up decorations/memorabilia

q Confirm hotel reservations for out of town guests

q Set up tent on the day before the party

q Review guest list and expectations with graduate

q Confirm delivery of rental equipment and plan to be there for a quick

inspection

q Talk to your graduate about your expectations during the party

The day of the party

q Sleep as late as you can; you’re gonna need all the energy you can get!

q Wake up your graduate with breakfast in bed

q Take your pet to a friend’s for a day of rest

q Set out trash barrels (and recycling boxes if serving canned drinks)

q Sweep the front entryway, driveway and garage (if you are using it)

q Pick up balloons and put up yard signs and directional signs

q Meet with your helpers. Give them detailed instructions

q Set tables, serving tables and beverages

q Set out non-perishable food early

q Set out perishable food at the last minute

q Give your graduate a letter saying how proud you are of them

q Give your graduate a big hug and let the celebration begin!