- 1). Choose a date for the event. Weekends are usually better, since people will be off work and more likely to attend. Make sure that the retiree is aware of the date you have chosen before the invitations are sent.
- 2). Select a location for the event. If the anticipated number of attendees will be small, you may save money by hosting the event in your backyard and renting tents and extra tables. The Fellowship Hall of your church may also be an option. If your church has a garden area, ask permission of the pastor to use that. Always have an alternate indoor location planned in the case of rain.
- 3). Plan the food arrangements before sending out invitations. Determine if you would like to have the entire luncheon catered at your expense, or you may want to have guests bring dishes in a potluck style. A barbecue may also be another option. Note that the way food is handled can often determine the overall feel of the event. Potluck luncheons tend to be more casual than catered affairs. You will need to also keep in mind your budget for the event and how many people are supposed to attend.
- 4). Send out the invitations to guests at least two weeks in advance once the location, date and time of the event is scheduled. Be sure to specify that it is a retirement luncheon in the retiree's honor. If you intend to have a potluck luncheon, specify which guests are to bring which dishes on the invitation.
- 5). Arrange an alcohol service, if desired. Luncheons are not events where people tend to drink heavily, so light beers and wine may be viable options. If you are hosting the event at a church or other religious institution, check with appropriate personnel before assuming that alcohol is permitted.
- 6). Have a small speech prepared to give to guests halfway through the luncheon to honor your retiree. Comment on past work history, hobbies and traits which all guests associate with him/her. Discuss also his/her role in the faith by commenting on church activities at or possible mission work accomplished. Ask a close friend or family member to share a Bible verse they feel reflects the retiree's work in life. Always give the guest of honor an opportunity to share the microphone and give thanks to the guests for their support in his life.
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