It seemed mere moments ago that Junior was bobbing happily in his play pen, and now, well, he’s graduating. And guess what? It’s party time! Take a deep breath, with these foolproof tips, you’re more than MASSIVELY covered. #Swear.
Plan for Bugs & Sun. We live in Southern California and it’s hot. Please don’t be surprised by the need for both sunscreen and bug spray plus citronella candles to distract the critters. Check Pinterest for a million fun ways to attractively identify and display your stash.
Get Extra Ice. Make SURE you have at least two pounds per person for chilling and serving and closer to double that if the ice will be in the direct sun.
Bracelets for Boozers. Graduation parties are notorious for underage drinkers trying to sneak a little somethin’ somethin’. Hand out bracelets like you’d find at Staples to ID the over 21’ers.
Insurance. Make Sure All of Your Vendors Have It. If they’re offended, confused or slow, find another supplier or refer to my past articles on the subject of why it’s such a must.
Photo Ops. Go to Amazon and order the Instagram frame and some other super cute props if you’re not willing to go all the way with the full photo backdrop. Regardless, you’ve got to have something ready.
Light the Stairs, Uneven Pavement and Tree Roots. Or plan to kick that insurance policy into high gear. Use low tech brown bags with some sand and a candle, or shoot for battery operated votives to sit in something swank.
Get Addresses. Have a fun “advice” jar for tips the graduate can take with them, or have pre-printed cards asking for everyone’s email, cell, Insta, Snapchat, etc. (If you’re super nice, offer to distribute the list to anyone who contributed.)
State Yours. Address That Is. Angelina’s got her coordinates tattooed where she can’t miss it, you probably do not. Print and frame a “You Are Here” sign for Lyft and Uber so nobody’s left guessing if the “Current Location” listed on the app is actually THE current (and correct) location.
Wi-Fi Access Code. In case you think anyone will be playing games, checking in on Facebook or live streaming the karaoke, have your username and passcode pre-printed and framed (or available) so you’re not left spelling it out 100 times over.
Flavored Water. It will encourage people to chug something other than alcohol and plain old water is, well, plain old water. When it’s hot and you’re serving alcohol, make water as visually appealing as possible.
Speaking of Booze…Worried? Just use smaller glasses. Yes, that’s all you have to do. #ThankMeLater
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