Do you have a special person graduating in your life this year? Then you know that feeling of pride swelling in your heart when you see them float across the stage in their black robe and cap. In that moment, you’re thinking about the many years that it’s taken to get them to this point, and then you smile thinking about what wonderful possibilities the future holds for them.

Graduations are a special time when family and friends can come together and share the memories that have all amounted into the beginning of the next chapter of life for that person. Whether your graduate is moving on from Pre-K, high school, or college, we know that you want to make this an occasion to remember. We’ve got some great ideas to share on how you can turn your graduation celebration into a summertime family celebration that you’ll want to keep in the scrapbooks for years to come!

Take it out back.
Get everyone outside in the backyard. After all, the back yard is where your graduate spent hours playing hide ‘n go seek, or building sand castles in a sandbox, or playing ball with Dad. Why not invite your family and friends for a BBQ in the backyard to bring everyone together in celebration. Here are some of our suggestions:
The Deen Bros. BBQ Chicken
Grilled Tilapia with Peach BBQ Sauce
Texas Pork Ribs
Beer-in-the-Rear Chicken

Make it personal.
Details matter, and we know that you’re going to want to make this occasion as personal as you can. Go the extra mile with monogrammed napkins, for example. Or, keep it simple with these sweet and easy monogrammed sugar cookies. Let your imagination run wild with your icing possibilities!

Keep it simple.
If the BBQ is going to be your main event, then keep the rest of the food simple and light with finger foods and other party pleasers. Not only will this lighten the load in your kitchen, but your guests will also appreciate the ease of being to eat and mingle with each other. For example, an assorted veggie or cracker tray with one these dips will be a hit:
Shore is Good Seafood Dip
Creamy Scallion Dip
Crispy French Fries with Mayonnaise Dip
Warm Turnip Green Dip
Lightening Fast White Bean Dip

Congratulations to all of your graduates!!