I guess it would depend on how many people, what time of day and what age the guests are, usually varied for a communion, from grandparents to young cousins. The cooking forum might have good suggestions for menus to please a wide range of ages.

It's standard in my husband's family. We had practically the same guest list for my first 2 daughters, but their birthdays are in Nov and Dec, so we used our Community center and limited the party to 3 hours. My son's birthday is in June and we held the party in our yard. And that was where we went wrong. Yeah- some guests lingered till the wee hours of the morning. Really, I can't believe DH survived, b/c I almost lynched him when the baby woke at 2am, and my 4 year old woke up crying at the same time and he was still partying it up in the yard with some friends. I sent my 4 year old to the window to call him crying-lol. It has been settled it will be our immediate family and local aunts and uncles and close friends (which is 2 families). DH finally listened to my voice of reason. Thanks for all your input. I will update and let you all know how it went Mid-May.

I'm so glad it was a great success, Lydia, but I knew it would be. What a big turn-out you had. And there is no way your parents could really be together for 50 years, they look way too young. Your Dad is so cute and your Mom is pretty and looks like great fun! You favor your short cousin a bit, good looks run in your family. Your brother- I hope he behaved himself and I just gotta say it- he's really good looking! I am totally blown away by chiroptera's poem/magic act/routine! That is really impressive and I'm betting the crowd loved it. I would have loved to seen the memory board up close. You went to a whole lot of trouble, I'm sure your parents were dazzled by it all and I hope they appreciate your work! I know they're lucky to have you as their kiddo!

Guidelines for a successful plant swap or get-together What to call it: Is it a plant swap, a get-together, party, meeting? Decide and call it that so you won't get it confused with other functions on the forum. Host(ess): Sometimes a group needs a person in charge, not always. Mostly someone to write down names, volunteers and lists, to keep the members up-to-date on who has said what and post results and changes. Also to post maps, send invitations or reminders and maybe a last minute post on where and what time the party is. Some people do forget. Also, they can be a speaker at the get-together if they feel comfy doing it, or choose someone for the task. Place & time: Poll the members for the most popular place and time. Remember, everyone can't be at every get-together. Just make sure the majority agrees. Hopefully people won't get upset with arrangements. People that live far away (raises hand lol) have to understand that the majority is the best policy. Attendance post: Make a post and have people add their name if they will be joining, or think they will. This always helps on the last day or so with the food amounts for people who are making trays and things. Food & Drinks: Poll the members and find out if they would like to each bring a dish or order something. First, make a list of things you will need at the party. Then poll for volunteers to bring things. Keep a list on paper and in posts. If everything isn't covered then be bold and ask people on the attendance list to help. Directions: Usually there are people who need directions. Keep a post updated for convenience. If possible, exchange a phone number or cell number for last minute lost people. It happens. :) It's always good for the members attending the function to print out the map or directions. If someone can make a vertual map and post the picture somewhere that is always good. I am very sight oriented. lol Carpooling: There may be a few people that can't make it because of transportation. Try to find out if anyone needs a ride to the function and see if volunteers can help them. We don't want anyone left out. :) List of possible things needed for get-togethers. Some are optional ideas Tables Tables covers Chairs Name Tags (you may use the example if you'd like) Paper/plastic plates Drinking cups Utinsils Serving spoons/utinsils Foil and clingwrap Napkins/papertowels Trash options Cleaning things (I always carry a broom, dishtowels, glass cleaner, lysol, gloves, papertowels. I always clean public toilets before guests arrive) Toilet paper (I always bring my own for guests) Hand soap (I always bring my own for guests) Tickets for door prizes Banner Coffe Maker (remember filters) Music (choose carefully or take a poll) List of possible foods and drinks for get-togethers. Sandwiches Chips & Dips Hors D'oeuvres (had to look this up lol) Pop Coffee Tea Beer (carefully watch youngsters) Ice Giant sub from Subway (these are affordable) Pizza Buffalo Wings Chicken from KFC or another place Casseroles Kabobs (many different kinds) Cut up fruits & veggies Cakes Pies Ice Cream (maybe with rootbeer) :) I love floats lol Cook-out meat: Hambuger, chicken, ribs, etc..... And don't forget the BBQ sauce! :) Safety tips: Try not to use milk/cream products unless it's powdered, like for coffee. Try not to use mayonaise. If you do use it, make sure it's kept cool at all times. (cooler) Try not to let more than one person handle meat products. Cook thoroughly to kill harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Always wash hands with warm soapy water before serving. Wear gloves if possible. Last minute tips: Label your dishes for ID Bring a guest book if you want a momento (these can be fun) Decide about alcohol before party. Take polls about it. Make an "ingredients" label for homemade sauces, dips, etc. Some people can be allergic to some foods.