Family Affair – Plan a Reunion with the Clan
Is it time to make good on that goal of spending more time with extended family?
Facebook photos prove that years pass way too quickly. The gift of building deeper relationships with extended family can benefit every generation. Maybe this is the year for a family reunion.
Here are suggestions to get the ball rolling:
STARTING FROM SCRATCH — Begin with a survey or poll
Consider
Family budgets: Daylong, weekend, weeklong
Audience: How many adults, kids and teens?
What has the larger appeal to your family age group?
- Cruise
- Resort
- Renting a house
- Park, campground, private home
What activities are popular with the majority?
- Snow activities: skiing, tobogganing, snowboarding or hot tubs
- Warm-weather activities: beach, ocean, swimming or spa time
- Other outdoor activities: hiking, biking, team sports or picnics
What’s next
- Begin with a budget and request donations from the families for early expenses.
- Choose a firm date.
- Decide the theme. Go to Pinterest (pinterest.com) to get ideas.
- Create a website/blog or private Facebook page to communicate as plans are made.
- Create a timeline with deadlines.
- Email sign-up sheets with task assignments and list all members’ contact information. Find out skill sets of family members; don’t give a creative task to someone with an analytical personality, for example.
RESOURCES
Here’s what local travel experts say about streamlining the learning curve for successful reunions:
Choose a Cruise
Adrienne Greben, franchise owner of Cruise Planners/American Express in Concord Township:
“Groups are complex. It’s important to use the services of a good travel professional who will remember your family’s details and can guide you through every step — at no cost to you. The pricing is the same, but travel pros can often offer extra amenities for your family.
“Book your cruise early — even more than a year in advance.
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