The adage that the early bird gets the worm is never more true than when booking a vendor around graduation time, particularly a local restaurant. While your first choice may be the graduation date, have one or two other options, particularly if you have your mind set on a popular restaurant.

If booking a restaurant is proving difficult due to local restrictions regarding in person dining or other obstacles, then catering a dinner at home may be a smart option. Speak with a favorite restaurant or caterer well in advance of the proposed party date and host a catered event at home. Buffets often are convenient because there will be different foods that meet a variety dietary needs.

Flexibility and ingenuity have become hallmarks of the past year or more. Concerns about coronavirus transmission may still be making headlines around graduation time, and graduation dinner hosts should keep this in mind. For home or backyard parties, keep guest lists on the small side and divide them according to specific time slots to maintain social distancing and reduce the number of people who will be mingling at one time.