Step 1a. Start with the Basics

• A Word of Encouragement

Your family reunion won't go exactly as planned. But planning is what will make it work.

• What Do You Want to Accomplish?

Take a moment to set your goals for this particular reunion. It will make sure you accomplish what you set out to do.

• Who Are You Inviting?

You don't want to invite the whole world, so who exactly do you want at your family reunion?

• Put Together a Guest List

Use a guest list to make it easier to invite family members.

• How Many People Do You Expect?

There's a lot of difference betweeen a group of fifteen and a group of 150.

• What Type of Reunion is This?

Do you want a backyard barbecue Saturday afternoon, a two-week vacation or something in between?

• When Can People Get Together?

When will you hold your reunion? There are better times and worse ones for many family members.

• Where Will You Hold Your Family Reunion?

You can choose the old homestead, someone's backyard, a church or a park or an island in the Caribbean. What do you have in mind?

• Are the Facilities Right for Everyone?

Are the facilities you're considering right for your family reunion? Use this checklist to make sure it meets your family's needs.

A indicates a task that is essential for all family reunions. Unstarred tasks may or may not be essential, depending on how you structure your reunion.