Retirement marks the end of a long career and calls for a celebration with co-workers, family, and friends. As you plan a party for one of your business associates, it’s important to consider everything from choice of event venue to decorations to show them they’ve been worth much more to the team than an office gathering. Here’s how to organize a grand send-off for a member of your company’s family.

How to Throw an Office Retirement Party

1. Set Your Budget 

The budget for a retirement party should include the cost of food, libations, decorations, event venue rental, and live entertainment. In many cases, event spaces offer packages that include catering, table settings, and decor, which can help you save money. 

2. Make a Guest List

Make a list of people to invite to the retirement party that includes co-workers, department heads, business partners, family, and friends.

Reach out to the employee’s spouse or a close friend to help make sure everyone’s invited. Having the guest list with give you an idea of how many people to expect, making it easier for you to choose the right size event space and order enough food.

3. Choose a Catering Menu

Once you select an event venue, ask the staff about catering. You’ll have the option to choose plated dishes or buffet-style dining for breakfast, lunch, brunch, dinner, or dessert. If you plan on serving alcohol, inquire about beverage menus and bar packages.

4. Book a Venue

For a retirement party, you’ll need a spacious and comfortable space that can accommodate tables, chairs, and buffet lines. Choose an event venue with a dance floor and stage so that you don’t have to set these up separately.

Once you know the logistics of where you’ll be gathered, start drawing up a simple party program that’s all about celebrating your colleague’s accomplishments and camaraderie. Decide who will give toasts, what the decorations will be like, and what fun extras you want to work into the day.

If you’re looking for the perfect venue for a retirement party or corporate event, get in touch with Makoy Center. This event venue offers room rentals that accommodate up to 400 guests and on-site catering services in Hilliard, OH. Call (614) 777-1211 to ask about menu, linen, and decor packages and request an estimate. Visit them online to learn more about their indoor and outdoor event spaces for corporate and private parties.