DH graduates in 5 weeks. I'm so proud of him- he's put in a lot of work and effort into getting his degree done. In my family, completing education is a huge deal, and I want his graduation to be a special celebration of him and his accomplishments.
DH has decided he wants his graduation lunch at a local pizza/pasta grill place, that is known mostly for pizza, wings, and beer. Basically, its a decent sports bar, though the outside seating looks nice. I thought he'd want something nicer, but it's his day, and the food is good there. At the same time, I still want him to have something special, ie, fancy.
Here's the part where I haven't learned my lesson regarding planning celebrations (you'd think I'd be running away screaming from the idea- haven't been married for a month yet and I want to plan something for him). Please note I've run this idea by him, and he's fine with it.
Only his parents and mine will be there (my sibs live waay too far away, and his brother and FSIL are saving up vacation time for their wedding later this year- we understand, no big issue, we'll have to visit some other time). So a grand total of 6 people. DH's graduation happens to be the day before Mother's Day.
Here's the plot: after lunch at the restaurant, have the parents come back to our place just down the street, no inconvenience in driving, for dessert and drinks. Use my new wedding china, my grandma's silver, the nice table linens, some flowers, etc, to fancy things up. Have a selection of wine, beer, soda, water (and some cognac or limoncello for my Dad) available. Get lemon cupcakes (DH's favorite) from same place we got wedding cake, have some chocolate dipped strawberries, and other finger/small plate friendly dessert items on the table. Have a quiet little celebration with dessert and drinks, and also give the moms their gifts to enjoy.
Any suggestions on other things to do/have on hand for the at home dessert celebration? Should I have a seperate Mom's dessert for their acknowledgement as well? My folks will probably head back to their home afterwards (2 hrs away) so this will be the only time we get to celebrate with her, and SMIL is pretty laid back about these kinds of celebrations as well.