Presentations and Speeches

• The party may have an MC or organizer who moves the event along. Speeches and presentations should be prepared in advance but allow time for impromptu speeches and accolades. Make sure to prepare all the audio and video equipment, and test it before the party. A slide show of company photos of the retiring person can be heartwarming and a nice walk down memory lane.
  
  

Guest List

• Some retirement parties are large, while others are small. The company culture and personality of the person will dictate the best size and scope for the party. Family and friends may want to be invited to the party and their inclusion may please the retiring person. However, a careful sensitivity to the home life of the person is required to make sure that personal boundaries are not crossed.
  
  

Food and Entertainment

• The food for the party should be something that the retired person prefers. Check with the retiring person and guests to make sure no one has any allergies. Entertainment will depend on the size, budget and type of party. Entertainment could be a band or DJ. The guests, though, should share their favorite moments and memories of the retiring person; this will be very meaningful entertainment.
  
  

Gifts

• It is customary that the retiring person receives a gift from the company. The gift should represent the years worked for the firm and the job that she did. An expensive watch, vacation or keepsake are common gifts. Employees who are friends with the retiring person may also want to purchase their own gifts.
  
  

Alcohol

• The inclusion of alcohol is debatable at retirement parties. If the party occurs during work hours or in the office, alcohol may not be advised. However, if it is held at a bar or restaurant, then alcohol will probably be served. Keep company policy and culture in mind, as well as the views of the person retiring.