Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Doesn't anyone feel bad that you are spending on this lavish luncheon for them? Are they more well off than you? I'd feel bad having a recent grad cover my lunch like this and would rather they buy themselves something nice to celebrate especially if I was in a much better financial position.

No, I don't feel bad. My family has supported me throughout grad school. Paying for my rent, sending me spending money, paying for my much needed vacations. Thank you very much. Clearly, you did not read the original post where I mentioned I wanted to thank them this time.

Not you, them. Don’t they feel bad if this is quite a reach for you. You misunderstood. I don’t want people who can’t afford it to pay for me.

I drink but would not expect alcohol and think your luncheon is incredibly sweet. As a former grad student, I could barely afford to feed myself so no need to be embarrassed.

Congratulations btw!

It is enough (and generous) that you are including any alcohol. The restaurant is just trying to make more money. Don’t fall for it.
Stick with your plan, which sounds lovely.

Congratulations on your graduation !!

If you cover the meals, no need to add cash bar. If they want alcohol, they can purchase it themselves.

Hopefully, some people will give cash as a graduation gift.

Congratulations!

I think it sounds perfect as is. No cash bar.

Why are you having 45 people for a graduation party? Is your family huge?

Who are these 45 people... friends/family/work?

Anonymous wrote:Doesn't anyone feel bad that you are spending on this lavish luncheon for them? Are they more well off than you? I'd feel bad having a recent grad cover my lunch like this and would rather they buy themselves something nice to celebrate especially if I was in a much better financial position.

No, I don't feel bad. My family has supported me throughout grad school. Paying for my rent, sending me spending money, paying for my much needed vacations. Thank you very much. Clearly, you did not read the original post where I mentioned I wanted to thank them this time.

Anonymous wrote:Doesn't anyone feel bad that you are spending on this lavish luncheon for them? Are they more well off than you? I'd feel bad having a recent grad cover my lunch like this and would rather they buy themselves something nice to celebrate especially if I was in a much better financial position.

Some people want to have the support of others around them and others don’t offer. I always wanted a baby shower. After years of infertility (that no one knew about) I threw myself a “sip n see” when my baby was born with no presents. I just wanted to see everyone.

How wonderful! Not sure on the cash bar in the room or not, but I don’t think you need to provide more.

I’ve been to a lot of parties like this for anniversaries (some alcoholics present and we didn’t want them to get out of control like they do with free booze) and milestone birthdays. People who want wine or champagne often leave the room and buy it at the bar. No big deal and they didn’t think that was tacky.