Retirement is a major milestone and achievement that’s worth celebrating, so consider throwing a party for yourself, a co-worker or a loved one moving into this stage. It will give those involved a chance to offer their congratulations and reflect on the past.
Here are nine ideas to plan and execute a memorable retirement party:
1. Create a guest list.
2. Make a retirement celebration budget.
3. Determine the setting.
4. Set a retirement party theme.
5. Plan party favors.
6. Select retirement party games and activities.
7. Choose the menu and music.
8. Send invitations.
9. Give a thoughtful retirement gift.
1. Create a Guest List
Think about both personal and professional connections. You’ll want to invite coworkers from the most recent and past workplaces, along with family and friends. If you’re not sure who was in the retiree’s close circle at work, talk to others to gather names and create a list.
[SEE: 10 Ways to Celebrate Your Retirement.]
2. Make a Retirement Celebration Budget
Find out or determine how much can be spent on the event. Then write down everything you’ll need, including food and drinks, decorations, rentals, gifts and entertainment. If you’re working with a modest amount, look for ways to cut or reduce expenses. “To help keep you on budget, decide what areas are a priority,” says Kristen Kane, an event planner at Kristen Kane Events in the Pittsburgh area.
3. Determine the Setting
Talk to others to find a good date and time for the party. “Be sure to steer clear of holidays, major sporting events and popular local events that may lower the attendance rate,” Kane says. Consider locations that fit with the retiree’s interests, such as a nearby park if they love being outside or an Italian restaurant if they have a passion for pasta.
4. Set a Retirement Party Theme
Brainstorm retirement party ideas with others who have been to this type of event. List the options and then think of how the guest of honor spends free time. If the retiree loves to vacation in a certain spot, you might center the décor on that location, such as a Caribbean vibe with pineapples, palm trees and coconuts. For a retiree who takes mountain getaways, hang banners or pictures of landscapes and give guests the option of dressing in flannel or outdoor gear. “If you aren’t one for a theme, a color scheme is always a no-fail plan,” Kane says.
The logo and branding of the retiree’s former employer is another option to consider. “Set up a dedicated area displaying a timeline of the retiree’s career highlights,” says William Rivers, founder and chief editor at Senior Strong in San Diego.
Add balloons that match the theme or color scheme. “Marquee letters that spell out ‘retired’ or a photo backdrop selfie station with a custom neon sign are also fun ideas,” Kane says.
[See: Top Travel Destinations for Retirees]
5. Plan Party Favors
Align the guest of honor’s interests with the special touches for the party. “If the retiree has a favorite saying or inspirational quote, have it printed on whatever favors you choose,” says Shelley Grieshop, a creative writer at Totally Promotional in Coldwater, Ohio. Look for small gifts that guests can take home. You could even match them to some of your other retirement party ideas, like the theme and colors.
6. Select Retirement Party Games and Activities
If the party is for someone who worked at a company for several decades, look for ways to call out the person’s character and bring back memories. “Plan interactive activities or games that involve guests and create a lively atmosphere,” Rivers says. “You could have a trivia session based on the retiree’s career, a photo booth with props, or a roast and toast session where guests share funny anecdotes.”
7. Choose the Menu and Music
If you’re not sure what the retiree loves to eat, start by asking. “Arrange for a menu that caters to the retiree’s preferences and accommodates the guests’ dietary requirements,” Rivers says. “Ensure a variety of food and drink options to suit different tastes.” Choose a selection of individual desserts or several cakes to display.
Incorporate songs or background beats that will fit with the food served. A formal dinner might call for classical music. An upbeat retirement party might include live music, a playlist created by a co-worker or a performance by a relative or friend.
[READ: 25 Things to Do When You Retire.]
8. Send Invitations
Make sure to communicate all the details to guests, including the start and end time, date and place. Mention the dress code and if a gift will be expected. Display the theme or color scheme into the invitations. Sending electronic invites will save paper and give you an easy way to keep track of who will attend.
9. Plan a Thoughtful Retirement Gift
If you’re not sure about the retiree’s plans, ask a friend or family member for gift ideas. “Find out what the retiree plans to do in retirement and coordinate a gift from the crew, such as luggage for a soon-to-be traveler,” Grieshop says. A photobook featuring highlights of the retiree’s career makes a personal touch. A section could be included that lists memories and well wishes for the guest of honor’s retirement.
More from U.S. News
Secrets of Retirement Super Savers
25 Things to Do When You Retire
10 Ways to Celebrate Your Retirement
Retirement Party Ideas originally appeared on usnews.com
Update 06/20/23: This story was published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information.
