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If your family doesn't have an annual family reunion, this could be the year to start. Here are some tips.
My years in public relations taught me a lot about setting up successful events -- and that's what your family reunion can be. Here are some tips:
1. You take the lead. Maybe your family's never had a family reunion. Probably they'd all like it, but someone has to get the ball rolling. It can be you!
2. Talk it up!
Get everyone used to the idea. Start the conversation -- "Wouldn't it be fun if...?" and "Where could we all meet that would be fun?" You can listen to the objections and concerns and factor them into your planning. For instance, if Mary wants to be sure it isn't too expensive, and Paul's worried about golf, work that in. Don't become discouraged by the early chatter. There always has to be a First Time, and a Prime Mover.
3. Timing is the most important thing.
Choose a time when the kids are on vacation from school and adults will probably be able to get time off. Weekends such as July 4th, Memorial Day and Labor Day are likely candidates.
4. No, budget is the most important thing.
A cruise is a no-brainer, but not if some of the family members can't afford it. However, check it out because with the comprehensive price for transporation, food, room, and entertainment, it can be more affordable than you imagine.
Do your research on the Internet or work with a Travel Agent or Vacation Coach. For instance, Grand Lake Lodge in Colorado offers friendly prices, Rocky Mountain National Park at the front door, pools, recreation, a gourmet restaurant on-site, but Dairy Queen just down the road, separate cabins (no phone, no t.v. … interesting) and also larger family-style lodges. It has a large central lounge area with rocking chairs around a fireplace where you can gather and meet.
5. No, consider ages first.
It's multigenerational so include something for all age groups. Find the family-type resort that accommodates to all. Many will offer a day camp experience for the kids, and even babysitters at night.
Dude ranches can be a good choice with swimming, horseback riding, family-syle dining, campfires, cookouts, hayrides and other activities, and small towns nearby for antique shopping, museums and enjoying nature.
6. Find ways to make meals affordable.
Many families choose to gather at the shore where condominiums have kitchens and cooking facilities. If you're driving there, buy your groceries before you leave your hometown, as prices rise in resort areas.
Plan the meals together, so you can all eat together economically, and everyone doesn’t have to cook each meal each time.
7. Take advantage of the “kids eat free” and “kids stay free” options at many hotels, restaurants and resorts.
IHOP and Dennys both offer kids eat free nights, and Luby’s cafeterias here in Texas.
8. Choose a location that has something for everyone.
I remember planning a family vacation as a single parent when my sons were 8 and 18 years old. Now there's a challenge! I wanted a hot-tub experience and first-class, with gourmet dining. My sons wanted to be able to go fishing. We all liked tennis and snorkeling and lots to do and weren't interested in shopping. We decided on Cheeca Lodge in the Florida Keys – hot tub, tennis court, excellent food, swimming pool, fantastic fishing and a unique environmental camp for kids. We wanted “barefoot elegance,” and that’s what they offer.
Here are some family-friendly resorts worldwide.
10. Don’t fuss and don’t overplan.
You might plan a few things, but leave lots of space for everyone to do their own thing, announcing get-together times and places, but leaving a lot unstructured. Once there don't try and "organize" everyone; that's not what a vacation is all about.
11. What you should structure.
Plan ahead so you can include some fun things like Foster Family Reunion 2003 t-shirts, or visors with your names on them.
Remember the purpose is to get together and to have fun, so make sure there’s plenty of both!
About the Author
Susan Dunn, The EQ Coach, GLOBAL EQ. Emotional intelligence coaching to enhance all areas of your life - career, relationships, midlife transition, resilience, self-esteem, parenting. EQ Alive! - excellent, accelerated, affordable EQ coach certification. Susan is the author of numerous ebooks, is widely published on the Internet, and a regular speaker for cruise lines. For marketing services go here.
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