A retirement marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Whether your colleague has been with the company for 5 years or 35, they deserve a celebration that reflects their contribution and personality.
1.Private Dining Farewell
£2,000–£8,000An intimate multi-course dinner in a private dining room. Speeches, a memory book, and their favourite wine. The most personal way to say goodbye.
Ideal for: 10–30 guests2.Surprise Cocktail Reception
£4,000–£12,000A surprise drinks reception at a stylish bar or venue. Photo wall of career highlights, signature cocktail named after them, and a heartfelt toast.
Ideal for: 30–80 guests3.This Is Your Life Evening
£5,000–£15,000A hosted evening with video messages from colleagues past and present, a career timeline display, and live entertainment. Emotional, celebratory, and unforgettable.
Ideal for: 40–100 guests4.Afternoon Tea Celebration
£2,000–£6,000A refined afternoon tea at a luxury hotel. Elegant, relaxed, and perfect for colleagues who prefer something understated. Add a champagne upgrade for extra sparkle.
Ideal for: 20–50 guests5.Experience Day
£3,000–£10,000Wine tasting, cooking class, golf day, or spa retreat. A shared experience that creates new memories rather than just looking back.
Ideal for: 10–30 guests6.Garden Party Send-Off
£5,000–£15,000An outdoor celebration with live music, lawn games, and a gourmet BBQ. Perfect for summer retirements. Add a marquee for weather insurance.
Ideal for: 40–100 guests7.Grand Farewell Gala
£15,000–£40,000A black-tie evening with dinner, dancing, and a tribute programme. For senior leaders or long-serving colleagues who deserve the full red-carpet treatment.
Ideal for: 80–200 guests8.Virtual Farewell (Global Teams)
£1,500–£5,000A professionally hosted virtual celebration with video tributes, live entertainment, and celebration packs delivered to attendees. Perfect for distributed teams.
Ideal for: 20–500 guests6 Tips for Planning the Perfect Retirement Party
Start Planning Early
Give yourself 6–8 weeks minimum. Great venues and caterers book up fast, especially for weekend events.
Make It Personal
This isn't a generic party — it's about one person. Incorporate their interests, career highlights, and personality into every detail.
Collect Contributions
Ask colleagues to submit written messages, photos, or short video clips. Compile into a memory book or tribute video.
Choose the Right Tone
Some people love being centre of attention. Others prefer intimate gatherings. Match the event to the person, not the other way round.
Don't Forget the Gift
A meaningful, personalised gift means more than an expensive generic one. Think engraved items, experience vouchers, or commissioned artwork.
Include Everyone
Former colleagues, clients, and family members can make the event extra special. Cast the net wider than just the current team.
Let Us Plan the Perfect Send-Off
From intimate dinners to grand farewell galas, Forte Events creates retirement celebrations that honour a career and create lasting memories.
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