Family Reunion Planning

PLANNING YOUR FAMILY REUNION

Where to start... Someone has to do it, so it might as well be you!

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  1. 1. Appoint a coordinator... maybe yourself
  2. 2. Determine Who.. Is this an immediate family reunion? an extended? how extended?
    This decision will determine how many are to be invited and will determine what type of facilities you will need for your gathering.
  3. 3. Make a master list of those you have determined will be invited.
    a. Consult relatives to get names and addresses. If you are planning a very large circle, broadcast on the web for lost relatives.. put personal ad in newspaper.
  4. 4. Determine Where..Choose a location which provides for a variety of budget needs and lifestyle needs. Make sure to envision worst case scenerio.. ex. inclement weather. Does your location have facilities to handle indoor as well as outdoor activities? Check out our pitch below to be your location.
  5. 5. Enlist help. Form task teams who will handle:
    a. Finances
    b. Food and lodging
    c. Activities and entertainment
    d. Collect family memorabilia
    e. Create a family tree or history
    f. Photographs
  6. 6. Have one person for each branch of the family tree be responsible for reporting for that branch as to number coming and details.
  7. 7. Timing
    a. Think about choosing a long weekend for your first event. Unless your circumstance is unusual, that is about as much time as the majority of people can give. A long weekend also provides additional travel time. Plan a year in advance. Unless you are planning a very small reunion, this is crucial. Many families make their plans at least a year in advance. You want to get your event in their calendar first.
  8. 8. Plan for fun.. This is a time to reconnect in fun and enjoyable ways. Include variety, there should be activities near your location to attract all interests to your event. Have interest centers where people can show family videos; prepare family histories; make memorabilia.
  9. 9. Invitations.. make fun and inviting.. send early, then do follow up.

Now for the pitch!

Chautauqua NY is ideally situated for hosting family reunions:
Accommodations- everything from dormitories, economy apartments, luxary condos, rooming houses, camping.
Activities: Golf, tennis, cycling, hiking, boating, basketball courts, baseball diamond, meeting halls for all size groups.. indoor and outdoor.
Timing: Best to avoid the Chautauqua Summer Session unless you are planning a small reunion. May, June, last week of August, September and October are good months for a reunion in Chautauqua. Call us at 1-800-507-5005 to explore what we have to offer. We are just a few miles off interstate highway #90 in Western New York so access is easy.

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