Field Problem: Change of Command Reception
Dear, Field Problems:
My service member is set to take company command this November. I was hoping you’d have some tips for the reception. How much should we spend? Where should we have it? What should we serve? Also, do I do the invitations for him? Help!
Robin; Fort Leonard Wood, MO; Army spouse
Dear, Robin:
Congratulations to your husband: You are about to embark on a very challenging yet rewarding journey. We are proud of you for seeing this as a command team vs. your husband’s command. He will surely need your support during his tenure.
To start, let’s talk invitations. You don’t have to do it for him—it’s done by the company. Approximately one month out from the Change of Command you will want to provide addresses of your guests for the ceremony. Your service member will provide your invitation list to the company for mailing. Make sure you identify those guests that you would like to have reserved seating at the ceremony, as well as any special considerations.
Typically, a Change of Command is held outdoors, but the reception is indoors. There are often norms within organizations, so it is best to ask those currently in the unit and plan your reception to fall within these organizational norms. The unit may have already identified an area for you to have the reception such as the battalion conference room or classroom. But, there are many other options on your installation from which to choose: recreation complexes, clubs, or even private residences are all options. It is important to remember that the reception is usually immediately after the ceremony, so a reception that doesn’t require much last minute preparation and is nearby may be best.
How much you spend is entirely up to you.We have heard people say that it’s normal to spend a percentage of their income. We’ve seen advisement in our own personal journeys to spend $150. Whatever you choose to spend, make sure it’s budgetable and doesn’t go beyond your means. Again, we refer you to the organizational norms as most battalion commanders will offer guidance on spending limits.
Receptions always include a cake and often include some light food and drinks. Usually the cake has the company mascot as a theme. If you choose to include light food, make it appropriate for the time of the reception (like brunch food in the morning and sandwiches in the afternoon). If it helps, think of a baby shower or bridal shower as a reference, as most of those event menus would match that of a Change of Command reception.
Good luck with your reception and your command team time!
