Let’s celebrate our graduates and the community that supported them along the way.

One of my favorite commencement speeches comes from comedian and actor Amy Poehler.

Okay, maybe Josh, but he’s just a straight-up weirdo.

card invitation with drinks

Simply Recipes / Sabrina Tan

You’re all here today because someone gave you strength.

I love the message that no one can achieve big things alone.

No graduate could have done it without the people that supported them along the way.

Sandwiches for a crowd

Simply Recipes / Jessie Wong

So let’s celebrate them all!

Simply Recipes is here to help you host an A+ party for your smart cookie and loved ones.

(What aboutone of these kitchen essentialsrecommended by college students?

Affordable party trick for dessert

Simply Recipes / Jessie Wong

Also, we hearTrader Joe’s isverypopularwith budget and space-conscious college students.)

From all of us at Simply Recipes, a huge congratulations to the graduating class of 2023!

The answer was easy: writerMeghan Splawn.

Trader Joe’s Rose Spritzer

Simply Recipes / Sabrina Tan

She’s been throwing gatherings big and small for nearly two decades.

Here are her top three tips for creating a celebration your graduate will always remember.

Yes, she’s a pro!

desserts for party

Simply Recipes / Sabrina Tan

Diane shared six smart tricks for making a lot of sandwiches easily, quickly, and with little stress.

you’ve got the option to even flaunt your school colors on the treats.

(We suggest a batch of the best lemonade for underaged guests.)

Bowl of vegetables with homemade veggie dip

Simply Recipes / Lori Rice

Her current favorite is a summery rose spritzer with the most gorgeous berry ice ring.

That soundssofun to us!

We asked writer and professional party-throwerNatasha Feldmanfor tips.

Banh Mi sandwiches

Simply Recipes / Ciara Kehoe

Because dips are the ultimate party food.

you could easily double, triple, or even quadruple the recipes to feed the size of your crowd.

We guaranteed you won’t have leftovers.

Cookie cake with decorations

Simply Recipes / Mark Beahm

Here are some of our favorite batchable non-alcoholic drinks.

arnold palmer

Simply Recipes / Elana Lepkowski