Celebrate a golden anniversary with refined, yet engaging activities.
When planning a 50th Anniversary party, keep in mind the interests and likes of the guests -- and the celebrated couple. For a crowd that enjoys the finer, grown-up delights, a cocktail party may be appropriate. For a more adventuresome group, plan something slightly unusual, like a boating trip or a wine tasting. Either way, incorporate a theme or include personalized touches to make the celebration stand out. Does this Spark an idea?
Classic Cocktails
For a couple celebrating a 50th anniversary, renew wilder days with a swinging cocktail party. Hire a band to play tunes from the couple's generation. Outfit the venue to resemble an old-time speakeasy or a classic New York bar. Mix festive and classic drinks, such as Bellinis or Gimlets. Tailor the party to the age, sensibility and ability of the guests. For an older, less mobile crowd, quickly shift from cocktails to a light meal, providing seating and waiter service. For a more active group, you may simply provide hors d'oeuvres at a buffet table or on trays.
Ships Ahoy
For a party worthy of the "golden" fiftieth anniversary, charter a boat for floating festivities. Depending on your budget and guest list, you might engage a simple vessel for a sunset cruise or an historic tallship for an educational and unusual experience. For a small, simple and fun celebration, hire a pontoon boat for a low-key outing at your nearest lake, pond, gulf or ocean. To complement a nautical theme, decorate invitations with golden anchors, thereby tying in the "golden" anniversary theme, as well. When making arrangements, check with the cruise manager about provisions available for any guests with limited mobility.
Wine Tasting
Invite your guests to celebrate a marriage that has aged "like fine wine," and throw a wine-tasting party. Choose a location to suit your budget, guest list, preferences, mobility and interests. For an in-home wine tasting, you can hire a sommelier to guide guests through a sampling of wines. For a deeper exploration of wine and wine growing, arrange a party at a vineyard that offers group tours to the public. After learning about the wine-making process, enjoy a tasting of the vineyard's offerings. For a particularly festive celebration, book a champage tasting at a local restaurant or wine bar that specializes in bubbly.
A Golden Touch
Should you decide for a simple, straightforward party, you can still jazz up the occasion with a "golden" theme. Such a catchy color is actually very adaptable. Play it up for a glam, Broadway-inspired bash, or use minimal touches of gold for an understated elegance. For a lavish, late night vibe, trim the room, chairs and tables with shiny gold lame against black velvet. For a more understated daytime affair, pair cream or off-white with muted gold accents.
Tags: budget guest, budget guest list, cocktail party, golden anniversary, guest list