If you’ve read our previous blog post about planning a spring graduation party, you’ve already done all the initial planning to prepare for your special grad’s big day – you’ve set the party date, sent the invitations, reserved your party rentals, and planned the catering. But there are also some things you need to do in the final days before the party. Read on to learn what last-minute preparations you need to make in order to throw the perfect graduation party.
Make sure you have everything you need
Even if you think you have all of the necessary supplies for the party, it’s important to double-check to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything important. Here are some items you’ll want to make sure you have:
- Party tents (for outdoor parties)
- Chairs and tables for guests
- A table for presents
- Guest book for people to sign
- Food and beverages
- Plates and utensils
- Garbage and recycling bins
- Beverage coolers
- Other catering equipment – such as a grill, coffeemaker, or bar
- Entertainment items – such as yard games or a karaoke machine
- Decorative supplies – such as balloons and a helium tank to fill them up
- Audio/visual equipment – such as speakers and a music player
Some optional items might include party lights, a dance floor and disco ball, a bounce house for young kids, and a generator for any major electrical items.
Check the weather forecast
This is especially important if you’re having an outdoor party. While you can’t control the weather, you can plan for it if you check the forecast a few days in advance. If a big storm is on the way, you will have to find a way to move the party indoors. However, if only a light drizzle is expected, you might be able to get by with a few large tents. If the weather will be chilly in the evening, you might want to rent some outdoor heaters.
Set up for the party
Give yourself plenty of time to set up your tables, chairs, entertainment, etc. Food, of course, should be set out right before the party or after guests arrive, but just about everything else can be set up hours in advance or the day before (weather permitting). If you’re not sure how to arrange chairs and tables, talk to a party planning specialist who can help you determine the best setup for your space and the number of guests you’ll be hosting.
Get your “staff” ready
Depending on your party plans, you might have hired staff, like a DJ or food caterers. But in many cases, family will act as the “staff.” For example, you might enlist your older children to clean up or host the karaoke contest. Or, it might be Dad’s job to make the adult beverages or Grandma’s job to make a list of who gives the graduate what when it’s time to open presents. Before the party, make sure everyone understands their duties and knows where they need to be and when.
Need more party preparation help? We’ve got you covered. Contact One Stop Rental to consult one of our party planning experts and make sure you have everything you need to throw a memorable graduation party.