Saying goodbye to loved ones is never easy. However, it is an unavoidable reality that people's lives take them in different directions, whether it be for school, employment opportunity or personal reasons. And though it is difficult to say goodbye to those that have made an impact on our lives, the best way to remind them how much they are loved is by celebrating together with a memorable going-away party before you move.
This guide will give you some ideas on how to throw an unforgettable farewell bash before you leave town.
Decorate and dine with a theme
Depending on where you are headed, you can base the theme of the party on your destination. Moving to New Orleans? Host a party with a Mardi Gras theme, decorating the walls with feathered masks and handing out colorful beads to guests.
You can use your new location to inspire the menu of the party as well. For a New Orleans party, serve Creole fare like crawfish etouffee, shrimp gumbo and fried oysters. Of course, authentic regional cuisine might be a challenge if you are not a skilled chef, in which case the appropriate caterer might be a wise idea.
Give out favor bags with little reminders
As much as you will miss everyone, it'll be nice to know they're thinking of you when you aren't local. Make gift bags with staple products that you adore and will remind others of you. Visit local bakeries for trademark treats. Include silly souvenirs bearing your name or something you really like. For example, your co-worker might always ask you for a piece of gum, so you can give them a pack of your favorite flavor.
Make a memory video
Create a short movie on your computer with a simple editing software to screen at your party. Include a montage of photos and video clips and set it to some of your favorite tunes. Watching this will certainly get a laugh and a tear out of everyone at your gala.
Ask for a moving help instead of presents
In lieu of your guests bringing presents that will only add to the amount of stuff you have to haul out of town, ask guests to pitch in some manual labor. This will be greatly appreciated as not only a generous gesture, but a great help in the moving process. If they have impaired mobility, maybe ask them to bring a moving box or other packing materials.
Have a good-bye book
Have a guest-book available at the party for attendees to sign. They can share sentimental messages, funny memories or encouraging quotes. Have each guest take a Polaroid photo with you to insert in the book for an even more personal touch.
Host a roast and toast
Gather your guests and have everyone share a story or memory -- whether sweet and sentimental or uproariously funny and embarrassing. The amusing anecdotes will keep your party's tone from growing somber, as guests bid their tearful goodbyes. Sharing laughs and fond memories is the perfect way to break up your party and have everyone leaving feeling satisfied.