Etiquette of Throwing an Anniversary Party

Local.com
July 12, 2011

An anniversary party is a way to honor loved ones whose marriage has stood the test of time. Children, family and close friends of the couple can host, or the couple themselves can throw their own bash. Following the rules of etiquette makes for smooth planning, happy guests and a party that shows the couple of honor how inspirational and cherished their marriage is to the people they love.

Traditions
Anniversary parties are traditionally held for big milestones, like the 10th, 25th and 50th anniversaries, but any anniversary is cause for celebration. If you are celebrating a milestone year, there are many traditions to draw upon. Each anniversary year is associated with a traditional gift and flower. The 25th is denoted with silver and iris, for instance, and the 50th with gold and yellow roses or violets. Honor these traditions by decorating in the appropriate color scheme and floral arrangements. If you have access to them, bring in elements of the wedding as well. Mimic the wedding cake flavor, the wine that was served and the first dance song to take the couple back to their special day.

Invitations
Invitations should be sent three to six weeks in advance. If many guests are traveling for the event, or if it coincides with a holiday, allow more time. The invitation should match the formality of the event. For a backyard barbecue, a hand-written or store-bought invitation is fine. For cocktails and dancing, a professionally engraved card is more appropriate. Include the necessary information: date, time, location and RSVP. You can indicate attire as well, to be sure no one feels out of place on the day of. If the party is for adults only, it is best to address the envelope clearly to “Mr. and Mrs. Jones.” This indicates that only those listed are invited, but you may have to clarify when guests RSVP.

Gifts
Anniversary parties are not typically gift-giving affairs. An insert in the invitation that reads, “No gifts please” should clear this up, but some guests may bring gifts anyway. If this happens, assure them that you will pass them on to the couple, but do not have them open the gifts during the party. It is never appropriate to request gifts.

Surprise Parties
Surprise parties are popular ways to celebrate anniversaries, but they require a bit of extra planning. The invitation must make it clear that the party is a surprise. You wouldn’t want someone gushing to the couple how excited they are for the big event. When guests RSVP, stress the need for them to arrive early so they don’t run into the guests of honor. It is wise to throw this sort of party at a restaurant or event hall. Parking, catering and bar service provided by the venue will reduce the headaches of party-planning.

References
1-800-Flowers: Emily Post Institute: Anniversary Party Etiquette
Emily Post: Party Etiquette Tips for Hosts and Guests
Emily Post: Invitation Timing
Quick and Dirty Tips: Modern Manners Guy: What is Proper Surprise Party Etiquette?