College graduation party- brainstorming

6fsn

My 40+ yo, single mother friend is getting her bachelor's this August.  It's been a mix of on-line and classes at a local community college so there is no real tie to a University.  I'm trying to start getting some ideas together, but I haven't been to a college grad party since my own.

I'm 90% certain the party will be at our house.  I'm thinking an evening party with the fire pit going and tiki torches lit, but I'm having a hard time thinking of decor or food.  I would go with the school colors, but she doesn't feel a tie to the school. 

There will probably be 30-40 adults.  I don't know about kids.  She works at a different university and we live in a BFE town (read between the lines that there will be a mix of her academic coworkers and redneck locals).  We do have 2 kitchens so I can really push some food out.

The only thing I know for certain is that there will be lemonade cake as at least one dessert.  So, thoughts or ideas?  I'm really trying to step up the decor game.  Maybe a luau-esque party? 

GatorWedsNole

I like the tiki torch and fire pit - that's great for setting a mood.  Maybe you can try to keep it island-chic instead of colorful luau?  With a bit of an island vibe.

Stick to a slick color palatte: brown/khaki/greens/whites/creams

Decor: Green plants / white flowers / brown tiki torches

Maybe calypso music playing in the background. 

Food: tropical fruit, frozen drinks, ham with pineapple, a colorful rice dish, veggie kabobs

HTH!

lsgarver

GatorWedsNole:

I like the tiki torch and fire pit - that's great for setting a mood.  Maybe you can try to keep it island-chic instead of colorful luau?  With a bit of an island vibe.

Stick to a slick color palatte: brown/khaki/greens/whites/creams

Decor: Green plants / white flowers / brown tiki torches

Maybe calypso music playing in the background. 

Food: tropical fruit, frozen drinks, ham with pineapple, a colorful rice dish, veggie kabobs

HTH!

I think this sound awesome--grown up tropical.  Think of the signature drinks!  You could do a dessert with coconut.

Can you get hibiscus plants in your area?  That would add to the theme but avoid throw-away decor.  You could buy the plants or float some of the flowers in vases.  See if a local florist or even a craft store has big banana leaves you could use as runners or placemats on tables.

TarHeels&Rebels

Are there any parties you've wanted to throw, but not had an excuse?  Like French bistro or Great Gatsby croquet? (Lol, yes, I have an insp pic of the latter - and I have NO reason to ever host it!)  Since there are no requirements on this, try something fun.