Inspired by a 50th Wedding Anniversary
Whether you’re planning a milestone anniversary, a reunion, or a big holiday bash, here are tips for hosting a large party that feels personal and joyful. All inspired by a 50th wedding anniversary party.
Recently, we attended Cindy and Kevin’s 50th wedding anniversary, and it was such a beautiful reminder of what makes big gatherings meaningful — not the scale, but the thoughtful details that bring everyone together.
They did such a fantastic job, I thought I’d share the details. If you’re planning a big get-together for upcoming holidays, you might find some of these tips helpful.
Start with a Story
Cindy and Kevin had photo albums and other wedding memorabilia sitting out in the foyer for guests to enjoy. It was fun seeing how the story started. And starting the event with their sweet story.
On the large back walls in the venue, a digital slideshow looped, highlighting the many joys of their lives together.
Plan Seating with Flow in Mind
Long tables accommodating seating for all the guests can be stunning if you have space for it. Consider using an event rental company to provide tables, chairs and place settings if you’re hosting the gathering in your home.
At Kevin and Cindy’s venue, round tables with seating for 8 were used. It was perfect for conversing comfortably.
Consider a Hearty Buffet
Buffets or grazing stations are nice for large groups. Guests can help themselves to food, and servers are not needed to pass appetizers or deliver meals.
The star of Kevin and Cindy’s buffet was the carving station.
Additionally, there were beautiful salads, meat and cheese trays, sliced fruit, chips and dip. You name it!
So while the buffet was comprised of hearty, delicious and beautifully presented food, it was done simply and easy for guests to access and enjoy.
Set a Signature Drink or Hire a Bartender
Signature drinks can be fun and even tailored and named for the event.
But in this case, a beer, wine and soft drink bar with a bartender was set up. It could not have been easier for everyone to get a drink and mingle and snap a few pics.
Don’t Forget the Music
A DJ is the best! They will set the music according to the demographics of the guests. In this case, guests ranged from the bride’s mother to the bride’s grandchildren. A DJ will have a great assortment of music everyone can enjoy.
If you’re creating the playlist yourself, start off with soft mood music and then ramp up for dancing after the meal.
Customize the Centerpieces
Cindy and her bridesmaid/sister in law, made beautiful floral arrangements for each table in the original wedding colors.
Additionally, Cindy’s dress was one of the wedding colors. I am sure for the guests who were at the original event, it was a trip down memory lane. But for those of us who are newer in the relationship, it was a fun way to participate like it was in the beginning.
End with Love
Kevin and Cindy renewed their wedding vows and then closed the evening sharing snippets of their life together. Everyone left very certain of their love for one another and for their family.
The celebration highlighted 50 years of precious memories and created all new ones too. I got such a kick out of their granddaughter taking lots of pictures.
Wrap Up
For a large party, this still felt so intimate. I was honored to have been invited. More importantly, the event reminded me of why it is so special to be part of this couple’s lives.
Isn’t that the goal?
If you’re planning a large party with the holidays coming up, I hope some of these tips inspire you because this event was fantastic.
Have a wonderful week ahead and may God bless you and yours.