Family reunions are a growing trend.
Gone are the days when families live close to one another, carrying out the family tradition, looking after the business, the farm or other ventures. Family gatherings are held on special occasions like Thanksgiving, Christmas, birthdays or anniversaries.
We live in a highly mobile society. Families can be spread out all over the globe, literally. Technology has made communication so much easier between families. But nothing can replace the personal contact that comes with a family reunion. That once a year get together leaves precious memories for all to cherish.
But, there is more to a family reunion than just getting together. It is important to plan to the minute detail to ensure a successful get together. It is a great help to communicate these details to those who are expected to attend.
FAMILY REUNION PLANNING:
It can be simple, it can be complicated.
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You probably have some great memories of reunions that you have attended. However, what would you do if you were asked to plan the next family reunion? What would you need to get the ball rolling? Learn 4 essential tips in this article. How a Family Reunion Should Be Planned
There is a certain way to conduct a family reunion in order to have great success. If you’re going to do it, do it correctly and in a way that justifies the effort. Good planning will result in a great time being had by all and you’ll have no shortage of relatives willing to attend again. Have happy campers to come back the following year. 5 Tips For Surviving a Family Reunion
The day arrives to attend a family reunion. You travel the distance and see aunts, uncles, and cousins last seen at your grandparent’s funeral five years ago. And now you wonder, “How am I going to survive this?” Here are five tips to help reduce the stress of the event.It is your choice.
WHO IS ATTENDING
It is a family reunion- but which family? Parents, grandparents, siblings and their children, grandchildren, in-laws, cousins- the list can go on. Some of us have extended families that can include very close friends, no blood relation but still considered family. It is important that attendees try to be compatible, congenial and pleasant. No one wants an atmosphere suffused with tension. It is neither the time nor the place to carry excess emotional baggage. Anyone who can not feel comfortable in such gatherings should give this event careful consideration. Families are genetically linked, but at times, that’s the only common thread. Family reunions give families a chance to feel out one another, and be accepting, accommodating and understanding.
There is no room for nit picking and pettiness. Discover what makes your ‘coz Tippy tick! Be sure to circulate around and get to know everyone.
DATE and PLACE
Set a date ahead of time, so everyone who wants to attend can make plans accordingly. Choose a location that is accessible, acceptable and comfortable.
ACCOMMODATION
For those who have to travel a distance, book accommodation ahead of time especially during peak tourist season.
BUDGET
Unless money is no problem, everyone who wants to attend the reunion can budget for this event to include travel, accommodation, food and fuel and allow extra mad money. Don’t forget an emergency fund- just in case.
ACTIVITIES
How do you plan to spend the time with the rest of the family? Some of them you may not have seen in ages. Children especially need to be kept entertained. If possible, leave technology behind. If the reunion is to be at a place surrounded by Nature, like a park or a lake, this is a great time to introduce the little ones to Mother Nature. Take this opportunity for everyone to bond. Fill the time with quality, real quality. Play together, swim together, have fun together. Bring your own gear like fishing rod and bait, life jackets, and other paraphernalia.
For adults, it is not the time for binge drinking. Excessive alcohol intake can be disastrous. No one wants to attend to a drunken relative. It is not fair to the rest of the group, neither is it a good example for the younger ones. Some activities can be spontaneous- guided by the elements that surround you. What do you do if you are rained out?
What games are appropriate for the occasion? Bring your board games and other toys. Unless you are in an isolated area, be courteous to the neighbors. Keep the noise like music down.
FOOD PREPARATION, MENU PLANNING:
Is it a one-meal get together? Is it a full day or a few days? Do you plan a dine out, a take out, a cookout or catered? If you are renting a place, check out the cooking facilities. You may consider bringing a barbecue grill. Anyone with specific food requirements, like vegetarians, diabetics et al must come prepared. Communicate to all the food allergies of anyone in the group.
Should everyone decide to make a dish- make sure there is a variety, communicate so there is no duplication. What food would your young ones prefer? What is your budget for the food?
KEEPSAKES/ MEMENTOS/ DECORATIONS
What keepsakes are good and for whom? How much are you willing to spend? A family reunion is not about splurging. It is about sharing precious moments.
THEME
Do you have a theme in mind to make the event memorable? Theme T-shirts are popular. In our family, we had flags nailed on the balcony to represent the different nationalities that have become part of our family through marriage.
MEDICATIONS / FIRST AID KIT
Always be prepared, especially if there are children, elderly and sick ones.
PICTURES – LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION
Most important are those pictures- they say it all. Bring your camera, make sure you carry enough batteries or chargers.
With proper planning, a family reunion can be a most memorable event.