As graduation day approaches, it’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate the hard work and achievements of the graduate with an unforgettable graduation celebration table. In this post, we’ll explore creative ideas for designing a graduation table that highlights the graduate’s school spirit and makes the occasion special.
Celebrating a Unique Graduation
This graduation celebration for a 2020 college graduate happened a little differently than expected. There was no pomp and circumstance, turning of the tassel, or mortarboard thrown into the air. More importantly, there was no exit through the Sallyport that this graduate had matriculated through. And because it was bad luck to walk through the Sallyport before officially graduating, that tradition, as well as the actual graduation ceremony, would have to wait.
A Family Gathering to Celebrate
Although the standard graduation ceremony was postponed, a family gathering took its place to celebrate the graduate’s achievements. We decorated the space with the school colors in blue, gray, and white, the official colors of Rice University. This set a festive mood for the occasion.
Setting the Graduation Celebration Table
Both gray and blue dinner plates were topped with white scalloped plates trimmed in blue.
Thoughtful Touches on the Graduation Celebration Table
At each place setting, guests found napkins rolled up like diplomas and tied with blue bows. I chose paper napkins instead of cloth for practicality; they easily held the rolled diploma shape when tied.
Blue Glassware for the Graduation Celebration Table
We also used beautiful, blue etched glasses to add a fun element to the celebration. Plus, their vibrant blue color added a splash of color to the table. Their large bowl size meant plenty of refreshing beverages for everyone!
Creative Place Cards with a Touch of Tradition
To make the gathering even more special, we created unique place cards featuring the Rice University logo alongside fireworks. This design paid homage to the traditional fireworks show that typically accompanies evening graduation ceremonies. The “stars” on the place cards represented those fireworks, adding a festive touch.
Sweet Treats for the Grad
Cupcakes on the Graduation Celebration Table
No celebration is complete without delicious treats. We served the graduate’s favorite: vanilla cupcakes topped with rich vanilla bean buttercream. The cupcake topper with the school name decorates the top, along with sprinkles in school colors. The blue and gray dinner plates were topped with elegant white scalloped plates trimmed in blue, enhancing the overall theme.
Cookies for the Graduation Celebration Table
To elevate the celebration, we included graduation cookies. These almond-flavored treats were not only delicious but beautifully decorated, making them a perfect addition to the festivities. If you plan to have decorated cookies for your graduation celebration, order them well in advance and show the baker photos to give them ideas of what you would like.
Floral Arrangements That Reflect School Spirit
Finding a variety of blue flowers can be a challenge, but blue hydrangeas are usually available all year. I incorporated blue hydrangeas alongside white peonies and roses. Instead of using owls—Rice’s mascot—across the table, I chose a more subtle approach, emphasizing the school colors in both the flowers and tableware.
For school colors, such as black or other colors you can’t easily find in flowers, consider adding a black ribbon to the vase. Or, place graduation-themed floral picks in flower arrangements.
A Nod to Rice’s Traditions
This vibrant yellow-and-black stole may seem out of place among the blue table décor. However, this stole represents Wiess College, part of Rice’s residential system, which comprises all eleven dorms, each with its own colors and traditions. While each dorm competes for the title of “best,” Wiess’s signature large yellow war pig float at the annual “Beer Bike” competition certainly makes things exciting!
Celebrating with Favorite Foods
To top off the meal for this special occasion, we selected the graduate’s favorite foods: takeout Chinese ordered from a favorite local Chinese restaurant. Ordering party food made it easier to pull the celebration together. If you choose to celebrate at a favorite restaurant, bring decorations and ask if you can set up a few minutes before your reservation. Also, take cookies as parting gifts, and a decorated cake or cupcakes. Do keep in mind that some restaurants may charge a fee if you bring your own dessert to compensate for potential lost dessert sales, so it’s wise to inquire about their policies in advance.
Celebrating Success: Creating Unforgettable Graduation Moments
I hope these graduation celebration ideas inspire you to create a memorable, meaningful event for your graduate. Whether it’s through thoughtful decorations, delicious food, or unique personal touches, the key is to celebrate their achievements in a way that reflects their personal interests and school traditions.
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