Hello all! I just have an etiquette type of question... My dad and step mom are coming up on their 25th wedding anniversary. He has 2 daughters from his first marriage, and then a 19 year old son from this marriage.
I just just thinking to myself, wow, 25 years... I would LOVE to throw them a party or something to celebrate this milestone. However, I am a stay at home mom on a strict budget (Who isn't on a budget in this economy?). I was wondering how we could get a celebration under way?
Should I casually ask my brother and sister to contribute or what their ideas would be? Is it tacky to ask my grandparents (the parents of both my dad and step mom) for any ideas or possible help financially? I really would love to just throw them a huge party myself, but even if I keep it simple and small at my house.... who do I invite? Can I keep it just us kids and their parents? Or would I need to invite all of their siblings too (my aunts, uncles, and cousins, friends of theirs?)
It's just all overwhelming thinking about the cost, that's my only thing. My heart is in the right place. But I want to make sure etiquette wise that it is proper and that they are pleased. Is it normal protocol for the children of the couple to throw the anniversary party? Thanks!
Hi J.,
Tell your siblings that you would like to give mom and pop a 25th wedding anniversay party. Do they have any ideas.
Let them come up with suggestions too. If noone gives you any support. Have quiet dinner at home with you and your family.
Just wanted you to know. Good luck. D.
My brothers and I gave our parents a 25th wedding anniversary party, about 15 years ago, lol.
I would just ask each sibling, how would you feel about giving Mom and Dad a party. Then see what the majority is, then come up with a budget and plan...
Would they like a large party? If so, why not make it a pot luck, buffet style party? For my in-laws 35th, we had it in their backyard (they have 3 acres) and had everyone coming bring some kind of dish. You could be organized and determine who brings what. Certain people bring salads, others can bring covered dishes and others are responsible for desserts. Everyone can bring their own coolers filled with the drinks they prefer. You and your siblings can be responsible for the main dishes...fried chicken, some kind of pasta, burgers, etc...you see where I'm going with this. Of course if you're looking for something more formal this won't work, however with small children and a large family this scenario tends to work best for us and it keeps the cost at a minimum. Everyone right now understands about budgeting in this economy so I would think most would be happy with this solution. Were you planning for later this summer or early fall? This would also help out with keeping the kids busy outside and the mess out of your house. I would also check out a local park and see what it would cost to rent a pavilion for a day. Our local park has pavilions with grills, baseball fields and playgrounds with full bathrooms and it was $40 for the entire day. You'd have more room and options for games and activities for the kids.
Hope this helps!!
First how do your dad and step mother feel about having a party? If they like the idea, contact the family members and ask for suggestions. If no one seems interested or willing to contribute, plan something small for immediate family only.
The pot luck idea is a good one. Make it casual and every one brings something.
If they don't want a party, how about just a quiet dinner out with you or at your house?
Do you or they attend church? You might be able to have the party at the church and get help from church members.
when is it?
Talk to them all and ask them what they would like to do, and see about a party.
I know with my inlaws became a huge issue, cause of course was only decided upon 2 of the 4 siblings who had the money and was only given a month or 2 to come up with over 1500 then they were thinking of waiting a year with collecting 100 a month, we just couldn't do it and neither could the other and always been an issue.
Maybe instead, send them away for a romantic weekend.
i know of a family that threw their parents an anniversary party... why not? I would just mention it to everyone and see what they say.
