Me Too

I`m actually doing the same thing for my parents. Their 25th is in May, and I`ve been working since September to pull something great together. I graduated college less than a year ago, and am in my first job, so I`m trying to make things happen on a relatively low budget.

Anyway, I reserved a room at a restaurant, and that restaurant is catering. If you are set on getting a hall, I would rule out homemade food. Most venues like that will require you to use the food they prepare. The restaurant I`m using has agreed to let me bring in an outside cake, but it must be from a store or bakery-- nothing homemade.

I`m having the event during lunch hours to cute on costs. I`m serving non-alcoholic beverages, but alcohol will be available for guests to purchase if they`d like.

As far as contacting old friends, I "stole" my Mom`s address book and guest lists from past parties my parents have hosted. I found that extremely helpful. I also sent out "save the date" notices so all of their friends are "magically busy" if my Mom decides to plan her own party... I will send out formal invites closer to the event.

I`m working on the decorations, and I`m also putting together a slide show/scrapbook of old photos. On the "save the dates", I asked guests to send me old pictures, stories, and memories. I`m compiling everything together, and I think it will make a very special, inexpensive gift.

We should continue to bounce ideas off each other!