A retirement party celebrates not just a career but a person. Here is how to make it memorable.
Office retirement (afternoon tea or drinks after work) suits a work-focused send-off. Family and friends retirement (evening dinner or garden party) suits a broader celebration. The retiree's preference should determine the format — ask them.
One speech maximum of 5-7 minutes. Structure: how long you have known them, one specific funny memory, what they have meant to the team or family, a toast to the next chapter. Anything longer loses the room.
Ask colleagues and friends to write a message in a book before the party. Pass it around to be signed during the event. The retiree will read it many times in the years ahead — it outlasts the cake and the flowers. Send a free retirement card alongside.