When your son or daughter graduates, you’ll be feeling super proud of them. After the hard work is over it’s high time to celebrate. Here are a few tips to help you plan an amazing graduation party.

1 . Start preparing early

Planning a graduation party involves plenty of organization. To ensure that things run smoothly, start planning at least a few months in advance. Send out the invitations at least 8-10 weeks before, you’ll want to ensure that your guests save the date. Start making a list of chores and consider the practical elements of the party. These questions might come in handy:

Do I want to hire a venue, or host the party at home?
What kind of graduation gift would my son/daughter love?
Which date is the best for the party?
Do I need to hire a tent for the yard?

2 . Find the best caterers

Some people prefer to prepare their own food, rather than hire caterers. However, if you’ve got a large number of guests coming, hiring a catering company can be much easier. What’s more, professional catering can make your party a little bit more special! To choose the right graduation catering service make sure that you do your research. Check out testimonials and reviews, choose a service that has a great reputation in your area.

Before you start looking for a company, think about what kind of foods you’d like. Perhaps you’re looking for BBQ grill-style food, traditional party food? You might like a few delicious junk food options, and some healthy food for kids?

3. Choose a decor theme

To make your home or venue look extra beautiful, you should think about the decor theme. Consider which color schemes are the most appropriate. Maybe you’d like to choose the brand colors of your son/daughter’s high school? Perhaps you’d like to go for a classic gold and silver decor theme?

Think about how to make the decor unique or special. You might use glitter, bunting, or decorative lights. You could hire a photo booth, with fun props. When you’re planning a party it’s all about creating ‘Instagrammable’ decor!

4. Organize the music

Music is one of the most important aspects of any party. You’ll want to put some thought into a suitable playlist. Choose music to cater to your son/daughter's taste and the other guests at the party. If you prefer, you could hire a DJ or even a local band? The choice really depends on your budget. To help you create the perfect playlist, ask your son or daughter’s friends to help out.

5. Make party favors

Give your guests a memorable experience with some awesome party favors. You don't necessarily need to spend a lot of money. A few sweet treats in a party bag will do just fine. You could bake some special graduation cupcakes? Alternatively, use a polaroid camera at the party, and let your guests take home their pictures.

6. Plan party games

No party is complete without a few party games, and there are so many options. To give you a few ideas check out these fun graduation party games. All of these games are suitable to play outdoors and easy to set up.

Throwing a graduation party is plenty of fun, it’s the chance to celebrate your grown-up child’s achievement, and create some amazing memories. It’s nice to have a big celebration before your teen prepares for life after college.