Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia has more colleges and universities than any other U.S. city, making graduation celebrations especially vibrant. To keep readers inspired, this guide offers expert tips on organizing memorable events, especially with upcoming graduations at Temple and Penn. Are you aware that Philadelphia has more colleges and universities than any other city in the U.S.? And with that comes Graduation Season at the city's premier restaurants. We recently spoke with expert party planner Lindsey McClaren for insider tips on organizing the ideal graduation celebration, from personal experiences to more vibrant gatherings. Just in time, Temple Graduation is coming up fast, followed closely by Penn, and then later - Drexel.
McClaren understands that graduation is a lot more than merely walking across the stage. As Sales & Event Manager at Center City's busy steakhouse and seafood restaurant Ocean Prime, she has arranged parties of all sorts, from celebrity-fueled affairs to more conservatively priced dinners. In this article, she offers her extensive insider expertise to make sure your once-in-a-lifetime event receives the jubilation it deserves.
Choosing the perfect spot: McClaren emphasizes that selecting a venue that creates the right atmosphere is crucial. 'Private dining rooms can make your celebration truly special,' she notes. 'Opt for a location that fits your taste and budget. Ocean Prime's Fairmount, Manayunk, and Rittenhouse Rooms are versatile, offering distinct vibes and accommodating parties of various sizes. For a more energetic feel, semi-private spaces like the Mezzanine or Cove are ideal for guests who want to be part of the action.'
Choosing your style: "Sit down meals are ideal for smaller groups with close family and friends, while reception-style events give a more laid back, party-type feel and are a good way to serve more guests on a budget," McClaren says. "Our Mezzanine, for instance, is a fantastic space for a reception-style party, featuring booths for seating and a private bar with TVs. However, why not make the most of both options? Attendees can begin on the Mezzanine with a private bar and end in our Manayunk room - boasting an expansive window overlooking our dramatic main dining room - with a sit-down experience."
Food and drinks that make memories: "With all the allergies and dietary restrictions out there, it's essential to pick a menu that not only caters to your personal tastes but also to your guests," she says. "For instance, Ocean Prime offers seafood, prime steak, sushi, gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. See to it that, whichever venue you go with, all your guests are covered."
"The right beverage package will also elevate your event to the next level. Choose a cocktail that matches the school colors or, if it's in your budget, have a Sommelier curate wine pairings for each course." McClaren's favorite cocktail at Ocean Prime, for instance, is their popular Berries and Bubbles, "because it's delicious and fun."
It's all in the details: "Graduation is more than just receiving a diploma; it marks years of hard work and deserves an epic celebration," Lindsey explains. "Personal touches like a slideshow, photos of the graduate, school logos, or colors can make the event special. Balloons and flowers also help create a fun, celebratory atmosphere that everyone will remember."
