More and more men are marking the end of their marriages with a meaningful little shindig. Here’s how to host a classy divorce party for your newly single wingman.
Divorce can be a painful and challenging experience, especially when kids are involved, but it can also signify a bold new beginning (especially for men) and a unique opportunity for personal growth. For many men, celebrating this transition can be a way to embrace the uncertainty of the future ahead while still acknowledging the past.
Of course, as a good friend, it’s going to be on you to step in and ensure you’re facilitating the right kind of celebration, one that focuses on the positive potential of the future, on good vibes with good mates and good things to come rather than allowing wounds to reopen, placing blame, or allowing the divorcee to slump. If you’re considering throwing a divorce party for your friend, you might want to pay heed to these insightful suggestions.
Set the Right Tone
Before diving into the logistics, it’s essential to establish the tone of the event, which should be light-hearted and reflective rather than morose and self-destructive. This isn’t a pity party; it’s a celebration of new beginnings. Consider a theme that reflects your journey—think “Released Back Into the Wild” or “The Great Escape” that helps get everyone on the same page. Overall, this little soiree should be uplifting and positive, focusing on the future (and all the things he’s allowed to do again) that a divorce commences rather than on the events that led to it, so be a good lad and leave that voodoo doll shaped like his ex at home.
Choose an Appropriate Venue
Selecting the right venue for horse remounting is crucial for setting the mood and no, that doesn’t necessarily mean going straight to the all-you-can-eat sushi buffet at the local strip-o-rama. Depending on your mate’s personality and preferences, options could range from a day at the golf course or a favourite sports bar to a private dining room at a steakhouse or even a fun weekend away to a cheap-and-cheerful extradition-free regional destination that’s far from prying eyes.
Curate the Guest List Thoughtfully
This can be a tricky one as nothing divides the friend group quicker than a divorce. Focus on your mate’s closest friends, allies and siblings (much like you might for a bachelor’s party). The key is to ensure that the newly single feels that they can open up and be themselves without a detailed transcript of the proceedings making its way back to their ex. For that, you’ll need a varied cast, from those who can provide comic relief through to those who are great listeners and those who can offer some sage advice. It’s also important to avoid inviting anyone who may bring negativity or unresolved tensions related to the break-up and it’s always better to keep the group small and focused.
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Plan Activities
Don’t just sit around drinking. Instead, keep the energy high with a range of engaging manly activities. These might include unrelated activities like a boy’s motorbike trip or a group surf lesson that takes minds off the past and brings positivity to the front, or something that addresses the elephant in the room, from a roast where friends can share thoughts and stories, to a night on the town when the new divorcee is forced to hone his flirting skills once again.
Fuel for the Celebration
No party is complete without food and drinks. If you’re staying in, opt for comfort food that everyone lad loves – think pizza, wings, or barbecue – or book a restaurant so you’re all sated both physically and emotionally. For drinks, why not create a signature cocktail that embodies your mate’s bold new chapter – Single & Ready to Mingle margarita anyone? That said, keep an eye on the limelight lad; divorce can be a huge transition and unprocessed emotions have a habit of coming out as the shots go in.
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A Moment of Gratitude
As the night winds down, encourage your friend to reflect on their journey. A toast is a perfect way to express gratitude for their friendship, show your support for their journey, and for them to acknowledge the lessons learned from their past relationship and all they hope to achieve in their next chapter. This moment of sincerity can add depth to the celebration and remind everyone of the importance of friendship during life’s biggest transitions.
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