Organizing a Family Reunion in 5 Steps

Organizing a family reunion can be a huge undertaking, but the result is a momentous occasion that will be cherished for years to come. When picturing the ideal family reunion, all of the elements can seem impossible to pull off. The trick to coordinating a successful family reunion is to compartmentalize: Create a list of all the tasks you need to execute and complete them one at a time.

1. Determine Whose Family the Reunion is For

It may sound silly, but figuring out who's side of the family the reunion is for will simplify the entire process and will alleviate much of the initial stress ("How will I feed 100 people?"). The most common family reunion revolves around the descendants of one couple--for example, your parents, or your husband's parents. This would include all of your brothers and sisters and their wives and husbands, along with any of their children.

2. Create a List

If your family is on the larger side and includes multiple step-siblings, aunts, uncles, and half-brothers, writing down a list of all family members is crucial. Forgetting to invite a family member is a great way to start a family feud - avoid this embarrassment by creating a list, and consult other members of the family as they may be aware of the recent return of a relative you thought still lived in eastern China.

3. Select a Location

One of the key elements of a successful family reunion is a good location. If your family is spread out several hours in multiple directions, seek out a location that is geographically equidistant from most of the family members (with preference given to the elders), but also provides opportunity for additional activities that will be suitable for all ages. (Seating for the older folks, plenty of space to run or throw a football for the younger ones). Parks will often rent out pavilions for functions such as family reunions, and churches also will rent out fellowship halls. Likewise, claiming a few picnic benches nestled amongst a sand volleyball court, barbeque pit, creek, and walking trails will provide numerous activities.

4. Address the Food

If there is a budget for the family reunion, consider hiring a caterer, or contact a local restaurant to inquire about family packs. Numerous restaurants will sell entire pans of food in disposable aluminum trays. If the budget is tight or your family is full of good cooks, suggest the reunion be in potluck fashion, allowing every member to showcase their cooking skills and offer their favorite dish. (Create a list of who is bringing what course so there are not ten different desserts and one entrée!)

5. Choose Activities/Entertainment

The novelty of having all the members of a family together is usually enough to keep the interest of all involved (except for the children), but having a couple of activities can help eliminate any boredom that may settle in from excessive conversation. As previously mentioned, the location that you select can also lead to activities, for example, having the family reunion at a lake will provide family members the opportunity to swim, fish, or canoe. Bring along a volleyball, Frisbee, or a game of Twister for the younger ones. If the reunion is being held at a campsite, remember to bring marshmallows and kindling for an enjoyable nighttime snack.

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