I have 4 siblings and we're trying to decide what to do for our parent's 50th anniversary. We've gone from giving them a cruise, to a trip to Japan, to a party at the local Sheraton hotel, to a measly Chinese restaurant dinner and a gift certificate. We cannot seem to agree and we all have differing budgets, not to mention having to pay for travel, hotel and car rental expenses for some of us - not in lieu of, but in addition to the celebration expenses.
At the time of my parents 50th anniversary, my father was not able to travel. There are three of us and we decided to have a Golden Anniversary party for them. We invited some of their friends and people that they have known and been in their lives during the years they were married.
We rented an beautiful mansion (that was owned by the parks) in our area and catered it ourselves. We gave them a couple of big gifts that they needed and wanted and the party. We had finger foods (chicken wings and vegetable trays, meatballs, fresh fruits, chips and finger sandwiches.) And we had a wedding cake and an champagne punch (that was great).
They really did appreciate all of their siblings (that could make it) and us and our families to be together. We had friends that kept the food and the punch going. The look they had on their faces when the party started was worth so much, you see my dad passed away 6 months later. Your parents will be glad to just get all of you together with your families and with them. Those are memories you and your siblings will never forget.
I think nothing is worth arguing about when it comes to families. Maybe you all can come to some agreement but whatever you do, please make this a great memory for your parents. You will never regret it.
Elaine
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My parents will soon celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary, any suggestions for a gift?