For today’s graduates, graduation parties are not one-size-fits-all. Some grads choose large open houses with photo boards and 15 crockpots, while others choose small get-togethers with their closest friends and family. Many even skip the tradition altogether.
Some choose not to participate in the trend. Graduating senior Kaiden Haas decided he wouldn’t enjoy the party and awkward small talk and chose to celebrate in a different way.
“I didn’t want to put my parents and myself through the stress of planning and throwing a party that I really didn’t want,” Haas said, “Instead, we are spending the money that would’ve gone to a party on vacation. I’d rather experience life outside of Iowa for a bit before I head off to college.”
For many seniors, the details of the party are what make it special. Many choose fun themes and colors that reflect their individual personalities. Reagan Reeder (12) is fulfilling a childhood fantasy for her grad party.
“I’m having an all-desserts party, and that is just my dream grad party,” Reeder said. “I’m very excited about that. And I’m just excited for all my favorite people being in one place for a weekend and getting to spend a lot of time with family and friends.”
To plan her grad party during a senior’s busiest time of the year, Alaina Bargett (12) stays organized to balance both the excitement and stress.
“This whole month leading up to my party, I’ve set aside specific days to complete certain tasks, like print out pictures, plan what food I’m going to have and when I’m going to make the food, and get palettes ready for the pictures,” Bardgett said.
While the decor and the many different types of food are fun to pick, many say the focus of the event is on celebrating the memories and achievements made along the way. Senior Maggie Lyness says her reason for having a graduation party is to look back on her last four years.
“In a few years, nobody is going to remember what grad parties they went to or how huge yours was; all that matters is that you enjoy it,” Lyness said. “ It’s about celebrating your accomplishments and the fun memories that you had throughout high school.”
