When it’s time to get all your family together for the annual reunion, you want to make sure that everything runs smoothly. Here are 8 tips that will help you plan the best reunion that your family has ever seen.
#1: Gauge Interest and Check Schedules
Before you being the process of planning a large family reunion, it’s important to make sure that people are willing to come. As early as possible, send out an email letting your family know of your intent to plan a reunion and potential dates. Then ask for people to respond to the idea, letting you know if they are interested in coming, and which time frame would work best for their schedule.
#2: Pick a Style
The potential types of family reunions are as numerous as there are families. Are you more formal, requiring a banquet hall? Adventurous? Casual? The style of your reunion will greatly effect your planning.
#3: Make a Checklist
Start your planning by writing down every single detail that you can imagine, as well as a timeline of when each task needs to be completed. This includes venue rental, equipment rental, reservations, food menus, and any other ideas that are specific to your family. This list may change over time, but your original brainstorm will be where you start.
#4: Create a Budget
The budget will depend on your family and the style of reunion that you want to have. Talk to other family members to see what people are comfortable spending and then figure out a budget. Make sure you keep track of all expenses so that family members know where and how the money is being spent.
#5: Pick a Theme
A theme will help all members of the family understand the purpose and intent of the reunion. It can also create a sense of unity and excitement among your family members.
#6: Delegate
Create committees within your family and make each committee responsible for one element of the reunion. Different areas might include venue reservation, equipment rental, food preparation, transportation, and activities. Make sure that the committees are aware of your style, budget, and theme so that they can plan accordingly
#7: Create Invitations
Invitations are one of the best ways to get out the most important information. Invitations should include dates, times, venue, and any assignments, such as food. You can use your invitations to introduce the theme and generate excitement. They are also a great way to remind family members to put the reunion on their calendars.
#8: Capture the Moment
Once the family reunion has arrived, make sure that there is at least one person assigned to take pictures and/or video of the event. These pictures and video can be included into family histories or scrapbooks and can be a great heirloom for future generations.
