Booking a Venue for your Graduation Party

Most people have their graduation party at their home, in their backyard or at a friend’s house but if you’re planning your graduation party at a location where you need to make a reservation then you should book the location as soon as possible. Since most graduations are in May and June not only will you be competing with other graduation parties, you may be competing with weddings as well.

If the weekends you’re looking at are too busy or if the location is already booked then consider having your party during the week on a weeknight. You will have more dates to choose from and you may be able to rent the location at a cheaper price. 

Locations that are great for graduation parties include:

  • City parks – many have pavillions that can be rented at reasonable rates. Call your city office for information. If the park charges an entrance fee try making arrangements with the city/park administration so your guests don’t have to pay. You may also need or want to post “Private Party” signs so other park patrons stay away.
  • Health clubs, country clubs, churches and community activity centers - most have party rooms that are available for rent.
  • Apartment complex party rooms – if . . . → Read More: Booking a Venue for your Graduation Party

Graduation Party in your Garage

Having a graduation party in your garage is a great idea if your house is small and you’re expecting a lot of people of if you want to have your party outside and the weather is iffy. It’s also a great way to let all your guests mingle in one space instead of having it in your house where people may be spread over 3 or 4 rooms.

With some planning and a little work (or maybe a lot) your garage can be transformed into the ultimate party room.

The most important thing is to clean, clean, clean. This can be done well advance of your party. It’s a great time to get rid of a lot of junk too! In fact, getting rid of the junk is the perfect place to start. Throw away or give away all that stuff that accumulates in your garage because you don’t know what else to do with it. Throw away the useless stuff and the broken stuff. Have a garage sale to get rid of the stuff that’s still useable, give it away to charity or simply put it out on the curb with a “Free” sign. You’d be amazed at how quickly it will disappear.

Once you’ve . . . → Read More: Graduation Party in your Garage

Choosing a Location

Most people host their graduation party in their home or backyard or even their garage (well cleaned of course!).

Take a look around your home.  Is there enough space to accommodate everyone you want to invite?  Where would you serve food and beverages?  Do you need tables and chairs?  Where would you put them?  Where would you display photos of the graduate?

If you want to have your party outside you should plan a backup in case it rains.  Can your house be the backup?  Do you need to rent a party tent?  Can you clean out your garage and make it spotless enough to hold a party? 

Consider the time of day and where the sun will be shining.  If your party will be outside do you need a tent for shade?  Do you want guests to come through the front door?  If not, use balloons to lead your guests to the party with a fun yard sign.

Do you want/need to make any improvements to your home or yard before the party?  Many people find a Graduation Party is a great motivator!

Does the idea of hosting a large party at your home scare you?  Maybe your yard is . . . → Read More: Choosing a Location