If you’re planning a 50th wedding anniversary party for your parents or close friends, there are a few things to consider. Since gold is the traditional symbol for a 50th wedding anniversary, you’ll likely want to incorporate gold into the décor. You can do that inexpensively with gold ribbon, gold candles, or by adding gold stars to ivory candles.

Although you won’t have any trouble assembling a guest list just because the couple has had 50 years to accumulate friends and associates, this is the perfect kind of party for a small, intimate gathering. If you invite 6 or 8 couples, there will be time to go around the room and listen to each other tell stories about the golden couple.