MAIN Entertaining Graduation

• The golden rule for any party is to decide on a budget and stick to it!
  
  
• Check with other parents or relatives who have hosted graduation celebrations for tips on what has worked in the past and what hasn't especially in regard to the logistics of an open house.
  
  
• Once the date and time are set, begin inviting close family members with a phone call or e-mail. It's good etiquette to formally ask teachers or other school faculty members with a written invitation.
  
  
• Consider a buffet-style serving arrangement, as it allows lots of mingling as guests who can help themselves to easily prepared finger food like chicken wings, hot dogs and mini-pizzas. Just be sure to have plenty of sturdy paper plates and tons of napkins on hand!
  
  
• For a more formal affair, think about make ahead dishes that will free you up on party day and make preparation easier.
  
  
• Take note of too many cars parked out front, or the teen noise level as the party progresses. In short, be respectful of your neighbors. Better yet, invite them over.

• To save on costs, consider coordinating with a few other parents to throw a joint open house. If you plan far enough in advance it's easy to pool resources by hosting a multi-family graduation party in a local banquet hall.
  
  
• Congratulations on a job well done! You've finally gotten your teen through the high school years. This party's for you, too.

• Finally, don't forget to remind your teen to write the necessary thank you notes for all the graduation gifts received. Consider a discussion about gift money being designated for their education fund...as your favorite graduate heads off to college.

Related Chiff Resources for Graduation: