Give your loved one a retirement party he'll never forget.
If a friend or loved one of yours is retiring soon, and you're in charge of organizing a party that includes 100 of his closest friends and co-workers, it's important to have a plan in mind that results in an enjoyable celebration for all. Getting the details together for the party as far in advance as possible is always best, and will increase your chances of incorporate the perfect theme, menu and guest list into this memorable occasion.
Instructions
1. Write a guest list consisting of 100 people who your friend would want to see at her retirement celebration. Include family members, old friends, as well as former and current co-workers and supervisors. If possible, invite your loved one's first boss to the party to make the occasion truly special.
2. Call local banquet halls to see which facilities have rooms that will comfortably seat up to 100 guests. Narrow your choices down to two or three, and visit each facility at least three weeks before the retirement party to ensure there is ample space for food displays, comfortable dining and dancing before making a final decision.
3. Choose a theme for the retirement party. For instance, if your grandfather is a football fan, purchase party decorations in his favorite team's color, and an ice sculpture in the shape of the team's logo. If your friend has been looking forward to vacationing after retirement, create a party with a tropical theme, including lei centerpieces and brightly-colored tablecloths.
4. Purchase invitation stock paper and print 100 invitations to send to guests. Include the date, time, location and RSVP on the invitations so that guests can confirm their attendance well before the party. If the guests check their emails often, send an e-invitation and encourage party-goers to RSVP via email.
5. Call a caterer to order food and beverages for 100 people. Choose the guest of honor's favorite foods for the celebration, or keep the theme in mind when planning the menu. For instance, if you've chosen a 1970s theme for the party to commemorate the decade the guest of honor started working, serve foods that were popular in that era like guacamole or toasted almond dip, pasta primavera or coffee cake.
6. Respond to all RSVPs to ensure that all 100 guests are coming to the retirement party.
7. Purchase the party decorations a day or so before the party; make sure there are ample centerpieces for 100 people, especially if you're serving small snacks like candies or nuts at the table before dinner is served.
8. Confirm all details with the caterer, and arrange a time to meet at the party site to oversee food setup the day of the celebration.
9. Welcome all the guests, including the guest of honor, and enjoy the party!
Tags: guest honor, retirement party, before party, guest list, party decorations