Prepare a Budget

Even a small reunion is likely to require a bit of cash to help it along. At the least, you may mail invitations or provide finger foods. So you need two things:

• A budget
• A way to raise the money

It's important to start with a budget, or in other words, a plan for how much money you need and what you'll spend it on. Some people are afraid of budgets, but a budget is merely a tool to help you focus your money on your goals. You make the budget and you can change it as you need to. Best of all, it only takes a few minutes to put you in control.

Create Your Budget

Take a sheet of paper or open a spreadsheet on your computer and write down the things you'll need. Estimate how much each one will cost, then total them up.

Don't worry if the bottom line seems like a lot. There are many ways to raise the funds and family members can share the cost as well. A little thing like money should never stop something important like a family reunion.

Here's a list of possible expenses to consider.

• Invitations
• Food
• A facility in which to hold the reunion
• Travel and transportation
• Lodging
• Clothing and other gear
• Signs and printed materials
• Decorations
• Activities and games
• Electronics
• Emergencies
• Furnishings
• The program
• Photos and memories
• Total