First of all, CONGRATULATIONS!! Graduating from college is a huge milestone and well worth a celebration. We love graduation parties here at Sunny Day, especially here at the University of Kansas! Graduation season in Lawrence is one of the busiest time of the year, and planning early helps secure venues, decor, and rentals. So we are going to talk about some ideas for planning out your graduation party and some fun inspiration for decor!!

First Pick a KU Grad Party Theme

1. Classic Crimson & Blue
   • Traditional KU colors
   • Jayhawk-inspired decorations
   • School Spirit Decor Sprinkled About
2. Elegant Black, Gold, & White
   • Sophisticated Celebration
   • Great for Evening Parties
   • Formal Dinner or Cocktail-Style Gathering
3. Future Career Theme
   • Decor based on Graduate’s Major/Career
   • Medical, Education, Engineering, Business, Nursing, etc.
   • Personalized Signage
4. Favorite Colors of the Grad
   • Color Palette Based on Graduate’s Wants
   • Favorite Food and Drink of the Grad
   • Personalized Theme Signage

Best Places to Host a KU Graduation Party

There are so many options for venues to host a grad party at here in Lawrence, but here is a quick list of ideas to get you started!

• Backyard Bash
  • This could be at the home of the graduate!
• Local Event Venues
  • Venue 1235
  • The Cider Gallery
  • Maceli’s
• Community Centers
• Restaurants with Private Rooms
  • 6 Mile Chophouse
  • Johnny’s West
• Parks (weather permitting)
• Brewery or Winery Event Spaces (for adult celebrations)
  • 23rd Street Brewery
  • Crescent Moon Winery

Must-Have Graduation Decorations

Of course I’m biased, but I think balloons are wonderful for any kind of event! We can customize the colors based on your party preferences, and have lots of Crimson and Blue for KU!! But not only do we have balloons, we have marquees!!

Marquees are awesome for spelling out the graduation year, KU, the graduate’s initials, or even their full name! We can also do a custom welcome sign display, designed and created just for your graduate!

Graduation Party Checklist

1. 2–3 Months Before
   • Book Venue
   • Hire Decorator
   • Reserve Rentals
   • Order Invitations
2. 1 Month Before
   • Confirm Guest Count
   • Order Cake
   • Plan Menu
   • Create Playlist
3. 1 Week Before
   • Final Shopping
   • Confirm Vendors
   • Prepare Favors
4. Party Day
   • Decor Set Up
   • Food Prep
   • Enjoy the Celebration!!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How far in advance should I book graduation decorations?

A. As soon as you have a date and space!

Q. What are the best KU graduation colors?

A. Crimson and Blue are EXTREMELY popular!!

Q. Can balloon decorations be outdoors?

A. Yes!! But we need to know ahead of time that decor will be outside.

Q. Do I need a backdrop for graduation photos?

A. This is such a fun addition to any party and we have so many fun backdrop options! We have shimmer walls, flower walls, and can even do a balloon wall!

Q. Can I combine balloons with marquee letters?

A. YES!!!

Graduating from college is a huge milestone, and we want to help make sure this event reflects the graduate’s personality! A KU grad party is a huge deal here in Lawrence, and we want to help you through the planning process from start to finish. So reach out to Sunny Day today to help you with this process!!