Throughout your life, people will move away, either indefinitely or just for long periods of time. It’s always bittersweet when a dear friend or loved one in your life leaves. While you’re of course sad to see them go, it’s hard not to get excited for the next chapter in their life. When this happens, it’s nice to throw them a going away party to show that you care and that you will be missing them. Thankfully, there are plenty of easy, inexpensive DIY decorations for throwing a going away party.
Themed Signs
One of the easiest and most obvious decorations you can make are signs. All you need is something to write on, something to write with, and a little creativity. Just take the phrase of your choice and display it for everyone to see. In addition to that, add themed phrases near the food you serve. For example, you can have candy in a bowl with the phrase “a sweet ending to a new beginning.” Christina, from Remodelanda la Casa, suggests writing these sweet phrases on chalkboards for everyone to see.
Banners and Garlands
Another staple for your party is the garland. You can use various materials to make any garland of your choice. To match the theme for your going away party, use maps as the material for your garland. You can cut it into banners, circles, letters, or even make paper airplanes. You can either cut out airplane shapes or just fold the paper into airplanes. All that’s left to do is string them together and hang them. Both options are perfect details for any going away party. Landeeseelandeedo.com gives step by step instructions on how to make a banner that can work for any material.
Photo Booth
A more recent party favorite is doing a photo booth. You can do this by either streaming the garland you made or using a map as your backdrop. From there, hand-make a few fun props, grab a camera, and you’re all set! Whoever is leaving can take the pictures from the party with them wherever they go. This is an interactive, fun way to get every guest involved. It also gives your friend something to remember you all with.
Make It Memorable
In addition to the pictures from the photo booth, you can also create other sorts of memorabilia. Weddingpartyapp.com suggests buying a globe and having guests sign it as a guestbook. Not only is this a unique gift to give your friend when they leave, but it also doubles as a party decoration! You can also purchase a vintage suitcase and fill it with letters from other guests to give to the person leaving.
Whatever decorations you decide to make for your going away party, choose the ones you like the most and add your own touches. At the end of the day, just remember to have some fun and celebrate before your friend heads off!
