Anniversary Party

Your parents or in-laws have reached a milestone anniversary in their marriage - and it seems like the right thing to do is host an Anniversary Party in their honor.  NONE of us have done this often, so follow our step-by-step plans below, and give everyone a night to remember.

What exactly is an anniversary party?
An anniversary party is an event that celebrates a milestone in a couple's marriage.  It can honor 25, 30, 40, 50 years or more of a solid union.  Normally, this event is attended by friends and family and is akin to small wedding reception.  However, it can also be a fun family picnic that gets the whole group together.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planning an Anniversary Party
Just because an anniversary party is a half cousin to a wedding reception - there is no reason that it won't be a Simple Feast if you are organized. Regardless of how formal or informal your event, follow our detailed plans below, and you will look like the daughter (or daughter-in-law) that everyone wishes they had!

• Select a Date -- Select a date -- preferably close to the actual anniversary -- 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!