Know someone who’s about to wave goodbye to the world of work and embark upon their retirement years? If so, you’ve probably been searching for thoughtful retirement celebration ideas!
So, to help you throw an epic celebration, we’ve created a guide filled with everything you need to know about planning the perfect retirement party (right down to the very last teeny tiny detail).
Whether you’re organising a simple gathering for a coworker, or a huge party for a treasured friend, we’ll help you plan a memorable celebration.
But, just quickly before we dive into the party planning, take a moment to browse a small selection of our fave retirement cards. We’ve got designs bursting with humour, sentiment, and lots of fun:
Whether they’ve got plans to slow down, or they’re off to explore the world, we’ve got designs ideal for all retirees. And of course, we couldn’t just leave it there… We’ve also got a handy blog on what to write in a retirement card which is filled with hilarious and heartfelt message ideas.
Retirement party top tips
Before we jump into our ideas, here are some general top tips for your party planning:
- Select a venue: Choosing a venue should be at the top of your priority list.
If you’re throwing a party for a coworker, the office might suit them nicely. Or, if you’re hoping to book a special venue, secure it early to avoid disappointment. - Carefully consider your guest list: While venue, decorations, and food are crucial, the key ingredient to any memorable party is always the people. So, make sure you invite those who are special to the retiree.
- Don’t forget the invitations: Once you know who you’re inviting, it’s time to let them know! Whether they’re digital or traditional paper invites, send them early to ensure a room full of people the retiree loves.
- And finally…what would the retiree want? The most important thing is to get inside the mind of the retiree and think about exactly what they would want – perhaps a huge all-out celebration, or maybe a more quiet, close family gathering is more their thing?
1.Settle on a theme
First thing’s first, you’ll want to settle on a theme for the retirement party. Themes are commonly based on the retiree’s personality, their interests, or perhaps their post-retirement plans!
When it comes to interests, the party could be painting, gardening, or fishing themed! Afterall, they’re going to be spending plenty more hours indulging in their hobbies now that they’re retired.
Or, if they’re planning on embarking upon a new adventure, you could go for a travel theme. This is a great idea, as although retirement is the end of an era, it also signals new beginnings! Imagine maps, globe balloons, fun props, and banners reading ‘let the adventures begin’.
Here’s a handy list of a few more themes if you’re looking for something a little different:
- Throwback theme: You could focus on the decade the retiree was born/ the year they started their job.
- A red-carpet theme: Think glitz, glamour, and speeches celebrating the retiree.
- Tropical theme: This ties in with the ‘adventure awaits’ idea. Simply opt for tropical drinks, fun decorations, and delicious BBQ food.
- Garden party: Picture pastel bunting, picnic food, and garden games. Perfect for spring and summer retirements!
And remember, no theme is also a theme too! You can simply ask guests to turn up as they are, for a simple, memorable celebration.
2. Decorate your venue
Once you’ve got your venue sorted, it’s time to get creative and start thinking about retirement decoration ideas. From banners to balloons and everything in between, there are countless ways in which you can completely transform a space.
Your decorations will depend on the theme as well as the size of your party. For a larger space, you might want to invest in a few balloon arches. Or for a smaller celebration, how about printing off photographs of the retirees working life to create a touching ‘career milestone’ banner?
There’s no right or wrong when it comes to decorations, and you’re free to decorate in any way you wish. But to help you out, here’s a quick retirement party decoration checklist:
- Balloons
- Table decorations (centrepieces and place cards)
- String lights or fairy lights
- Wall décor (personalised or ready-made banners)
- Bunting and garlands
- Streamers
3. Select your music
Now that the venue looks great, it’s time to get the party started. And what better way to do so than with a playlist full of the retiree’s favourite songs? For a low-key celebration, some minimal background music might work nicely.
Or, for a larger venue with a larger guest list, you could even hire a band or a DJ to play the retiree’s favourite songs. A designated karaoke hour is a fun option too, and it’s a guaranteed way to make the party a memorable one!
Whichever option you go for, make sure to throw in some timeless classics everyone will enjoy.
4. Remember the food and drinks
When it comes to ideas for a retirement party, remember to consider your food and drink options! Whether it’s easy-to-eat finger foods, or a buffet to cater to multiple preferences, food is a key ingredient to any party.
And, to help them toast to their upcoming retirement, drinks are important too! Whether it’s champagne, wine, or soft drinks, make sure there’s a variety of options for everyone to enjoy.
You could add a unique touch by designing a personalised drinks menu for the retiree. Include a signature cocktail (and mocktail alternative) based on a retirement-themed pun or even their name! This is a lovely touch they’re bound to appreciate.
And finally, don’t forget a retirement party cake (a key component to any party that doubles up as a tasty dessert!)
4. Retirement party games
When it comes to retirement party games, a fun option is to set up a trivia quiz based on the retiree’s working life. Simply split up into teams, and have a quiz master read out your pre-prepared questions. This is a great way to share memories and entertain the guests all in one!
And remember, there’s always the classic party games too! While these aren’t for everyone, they are a brilliant way to infuse the party with even more fun. Here are a few ideas:
- Charades
- Two truths and a lie
- Bingo
- Scrabble
5. Party favours
Party favours are another important thing to consider! While they’re of course optional, it’s a lovely idea to give guests a party memento.
A classic option is to gift guests a sweet treat, such as a personalised biscuit which reads: ‘thanks for helping us celebrate!’. Or, you could also set up a DIY photobooth area where guests can snap pictures throughout the night to take home. (Make sure to include fun props such as masks and hats!).
Finally, if you’re looking for adult party bag ideas, we’ve got a guide filled with plenty of options!
6. Honouring the retiree
Honouring the person who’s retiring is perhaps the most important thing to remember when throwing your party.
Sometimes the smallest gestures can have the biggest impact. So, how about setting up an area with a memory jar where guests can record their favourite memories with the retiree? From notable work trips to years of lunch break laughter, we’re sure the jar will fill up pretty quickly.
It’s also important to allocate some time for speeches and toasts. Having a designated timeslot for reflection is bound to be the most memorable part of the celebration.
Hopefully you’re feeling super inspired by our retirement party ideas and are ready to put on your party planning hat. By focusing on thoughtful decorations, tasty food, and entertainment, you’re bound to throw a party the retiree will love. And, if you’re hoping to surprise them, make sure to check out our blog on how to plan a surprise party.
Or if you’re the one who’s retiring soon, there’s no reason why you can’t use the above tips to throw an epic retirement party for yourself!
