Your parents or in-laws have reached a milestone anniversary in their marriage, and you are hosting an Anniversary Party in their honor. We'll show you how to do so with ease. Regardless of how formal (a hotel reception) or informal (a family picnic) your event, follow our guide below to give everyone an occasion to remember.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planning an Anniversary Party:
Select a Date preferably close to the actual date -- and send out invitations 6 to 8 weeks in advance. Remember to include R.S.V.P information, and keep a detailed guest list with "yes" or "no" columns next to either the phone or your computer to track who is coming and who cannot attend.
Pick out a Theme -- Depending upon which anniversary you are celebrating, your theme will vary. For example, here are the traditional themes/meanings of milestone anniversaries:
- 25th Anniversary is the silver anniversary
- 30th Anniversary is the pearl anniversary
- 40th Anniversary is the ruby anniversary
- 50th Anniversary is the gold anniversary
These meanings can be great places to start for a theme for your event. Silver, pearl, ruby and gold can easily be incorporated into your decorations, flowers, favors, etc. Decide how much or how little you want to use the anniversary's meaning, and what the guests of honor would appreciate.
Food -- Think about what food you will be serving -- you can ask relatives who were at the wedding the first time what was served. You may wish to incorporate one of those dishes. You may also want to serve the guests of honor's favorite foods. Once you narrow down your menu, divide that list into what you will pre-buy and arrange, and what you will make yourself. We suggest a buffet for this type of event so that people can circulate and feed themselves throughout the party.
Decorations -- Decorating your home should also be a simple task. Using the meaning of the anniversaries above, coordinate simple flower arrangements and candles on the tables and on the buffet. Visit your local party supply store and check out their selection of party supplies.
Favors -- Wedding anniversary favors should be meaningful -- but should not take you weeks to create! We will show you some great ideas that are thoughtful, easy to make, and something that your guests will really appreciate taking home with them!
