I am not in a rush but I am just thinking ahead for ideas. My son will graduate from college next December (yes, I am a planner and tend to think ahead). I am wondering what parents normally do regarding a college graduation party.
Because of it being a Dec. graduation, I don't want to do the party at home because I prefer large parties to be outside and December would be too cold for that. I was thinking about usting the hall at one of the local fire departments (they rent the rooms) for a big party. Maybe doing food and then have the younger kids (family) leave as his friends and he move more towards their own party. I was thinking of having a dj or a local band. I was thinking of checking with him too so I can see what he would want.
**added**thanks for the ideas so far. I just wanted to add that he is actually taking an extra semester (because of an internship requirement) so I don't think he'd want to wait until May. I know my best friend had a big grad party when she graduated (but that was years ago) while I went back to school later and only got a two year degree so I did not do the party thing. I do plan to check with him too though.
All ideas are welcome.
people do College grad parties? i didn't know that, I sort of skipped all the trappings of college graduation and concentrted on getting a job and moving.
Hi L.-
My eldest daughter is graduating from VA tech this december (a semester early...YEAH!)...but we discussed it, and she has the option of 'walking' during the may graduation...and that is what she has decided to do...since most friends will be graduating then.
She will have her degree as of december...but have it 'formally' conferred in may...
Something to consider?
Best Luck!
michele/cat
Before even contemplating ideas, I would really talk to your son first... about it all.
By that age, they have their own lives and ideas, and about how they want to celebrate graduating from college. They go to their Graduation, walk down the aisle etc. And, he, as will most graduates, they want to go out right afterward... with their friends... and go to the other parties or dinners with their friends, etc. Or even take trips etc.
I can't imagine that he will even know, 1 year ahead... how he might want to celebrate his graduation, unless he's always dreamt of it being a certain way.
When I graduated... I wanted to socialize all over town attending my friends parties and gatherings etc. Then when the hype cooled down, there was a small family dinner. On a different week.
My parents would have made a party for me if I wanted... but they did not. Why? Because, I did not want to.
Really see, what your son wants or not.
It is his, celebration.
I think not, about the DJ or local band or renting the hall.
I don't know why, it just sounds more high school'ish to me, than a college grad type thing.
Your plans sound wonderful. We went all out for our son's high school (well, a party at home), but I love your idea.
Go for it!
Dawn
Sounds great - the only thing that I can think of as a caveat is that December tends to be quite busy already with holiday parties, so people may be unavailable. And, venues, vendors such as a DJ or band and food will be at peak prices to take advantage of the holiday season. If you were to wait until January, I bet you'd be able to have more flexibility with the schedule and get better pricing. If you do go with December, book much earlier than you would at less busy times of the year and get your invites out very early so that people can plan well in advance. Michele (cat) brings up a good point to in that he may want to walk with his class and celebrate then.
