Another party planning with out of town guests question. NEW THOUGHT, top of pg. 2

[tiggerlover]

I have posted before in regards to DH's retirement from the military and now I have some more questions for all of the experienced folks of the DIS.

Most of our guests will coming from out of town (around 400 miles away) and we are looking at approximately 50 people. DH says most retirements you have a ceremony and then finger foods afterwards, which I agree is the norm. However, with so many coming from so far I feel we need to host a luncheon, not a sit down, but a buffet. What are your thoughts? If you were coming that far, paying for your own travel and hotel wouldn't you want at least one meal provided by the hosts?

 

[stinkerbelle]

Originally posted by tiggerlover
If you were coming that far, paying for your own travel and hotel wouldn't you want at least one meal provided by the hosts?

I would have to say yes...at least a buffet type thing...something a bit heavier then just finger foods.

 

[mommytotwo]

When we have celebrations here, we don't do finger foods, it has to be a whole meal. And yes especially if I was traveling that far, I would want to be served a meal at the least.
Where are you having this at? Will you be able to cater some foods and possibly making some?
You could make it like a buffet where you have a bunch of different foods that people can choose from.

 

[minniecarousel]

I would definitely do a full buffet.

 

[monkeyboy]

Buffet sounds good


of course so does a 6 foot sandwich and a keg of beer

 

[Sheree Bobbins]

Finger foods can be filling, like chicken wings, mini-quiches etc. Many of the finger foods are high in fat.

 

[Kimberle]

Yes, I agree. With so many people coming from so far, you should do a buffet and/or have more substantial food.

Take advantage of the situation and celebrate! Bet you don't get to see your friends/family that often. If you just serve "finger food", they probably won't stay to long. Your dh is only going to retire once, take advantage of it!

 

[Trish Bessette]

Another vote for a full buffet. Go all out and have a great time. I'm sure you agree that your husband deserves it

 

[tiggerlover]

Exactly my thoughts!

We were looking into a boat called The Spirit of Norfolk, (www.spiritofnorfolk.com) and they offer a two hour harbor cruise with a full hearty lunch buffet. We are also researching other venues, but this one is very appealing as it cruises past the naval ships and we thought that would be so appropriate.

Keep the opinions coming as I will print this out for DH to look over.

Thanks!

 

[Hillbeans]

Also, does the base have an officers club type place? When my dad retired from the Army we had a get together at the "clubhouse". It was a buffet type of luncheon.

Congratulations!

 

[tiggerlover]

Originally posted by Hillbeans
Also, does the base have an officers club type place? When my dad retired from the Army we had a get together at the "clubhouse". It was a buffet type of luncheon.

Congratulations!

I am sure they do, most bases have them. However, my DH is not an officer. But a great idea none-the-less. Thanks.

 

[Allie322]

We have a friend in the Air Force who was recently promoted to Lt. Colonel. The protocol for them was to have a small assortment of finger foods available right after the ceremony so that his colleagues who attended could also enjoy. Later in the day, they went out to dinner with some close friends.

I don't know if a Navy retirement is at all similar but do you have to provide for the "other" folks who might be in attendance? If so, maybe this would affect your plans.

What an exciting time this must be for your family! You're certainly a gracious hostess worrying about all of your guests! Good luck and enjoy!

 

[mommytotwo]

How about a themed party like a luau. I'm sure that everyone will remember that and luaus are a fun thing where everyone has fun.

 

[disykat]

As a guest, I would be coming to celebrate - not to eat. I would not be "expecting" a meal. Do what you want to make the occasion special - not what your feel obligated to do. JMHO.

 

[tiggerlover]

Originally posted by Allie322
I don't know if a Navy retirement is at all similar but do you have to provide for the "other" folks who might be in attendance? If so, maybe this would affect your plans.

Good point, I didn't think about that.

 

[tiggerlover]

A new thought here. What if we had the ceremony and followed it with light finger foods and a cake and then the following day do the luncheon cruise for our family and out of town guests?

 

[robsmom]

Its sounds like the cruise would be fun so the luncheon the next day might work.

I was thinking of this kind of like when people come from out of town for the wedding. If you do the events on two days you are really committing the people with long drives to an extra night at the hotel.

What time of day is the ceremony. Could you do the finger foods mid day and then have a dinner (on the boat?) for family and out of town guests. If they are staying over, they will need something to do that night. If the ceremony is later in the day, What about a nice breakfast the next morning before people head out on the road. Breakfast is a cheaper meal and you can do a nice buffet for a large group at a reasonable price.

 

[powellrj]

that sounds like a great idea!! Good Luck!!