After decades of hard work, retirement represents a major shift in a professional’s life. But while this transition is a big one, having a retirement party in a fun event space can make the experience memorable and enjoyable. If a coworker or a loved one is closing the final chapter on their career, here are five party planning tips to help you celebrate their accomplishments with style. 

5 Tips for Planning a Retirement Party

1. Create the Guest List

In addition to inviting current coworkers, welcome old friends and colleagues who have known the retiree throughout their career. Unless the party is a company-only event, it’s also standard to invite the individual’s close family. Once you have the guest list finalized, you’ll know how many people to plan for, and in turn, what size event space you’ll need.

2. Pick a Theme

Having a theme will make it easier to figure out décor, the cake, and other elements of the party. For a more personalized celebration, consider focusing the theme on a hobby or interest of the retiree—such as fishing, photography, knitting, or gardening. You might also design the party around the year the individual was hired—such as by playing songs or dressing up in styles from that era.

3. Choose an Event Space With Activities

While most retirement parties will deliver food, drinks, and conversation, an ideal celebration will offer up fun activities as well. If you want to keep your guests entertained, select an event space that provides things to do—such as bowling, karaoke, live comedy, or dancing.  

4. Figure Out the Food

The easiest way to feed retirement party guests is to book an event space that serves food—such as a bowling center that makes fresh pizza. If you choose to cater, be sure to select a menu that suits the person of honor’s tastes.

5. Invite Guests to Reminisce

Although retirement parties are often focused on what the future will bring, you should also reflect on the individual’s past accomplishments. Guests can reminisce by giving speeches or lightly roasting the retiree. Or, if you want to provide a unique gift, you could encourage everyone to bring a favorite photo or memento of the individual that can be included in a scrapbook. You might also add some fun by hosting a trivia game that features questions about the person’s professional life.

If you’re looking for a casual yet exciting event space for retirement parties in Flushing, NY, Whitestone Lanes has everything you’ll need to have a good time. Featuring 48 lanes, this bowling center is ideal for large groups. They also offer a wide selection of delicious food trays to conveniently cater your gathering. Visit this venue online to learn more about their amenities. To book a retirement, corporate, or birthday party, call (718) 353-6300.