Reunion Tip Updates

Last week I asked for tips on how to plan a family reunion. (You can see that post here.)  I received great tips both in the comments and in my e-mail.  In fact the tips were so great I wanted to share some of them with all of you.  If you are also looking at organizing a family reunion, you might find these helpful.

1. Be prepared to work longer than you think.
2. Plan, Plan, Plan!
3. Covered dished works well for the food.  Everyone is guaranteed to have something they like.
4. Divide the guest alphabetically by first name.  A-H brings a meat dish, I-S brings a vegetable of side dish, and T-Z brings a dessert. 
5. Ask people to bring photographs or other family heirlooms to share.
6. Take lots of pictures.
7. Have a good database of names and addresses.  Send out invitations 6-8 weeks ahead of time.
8. Announce the reunion on-line in surname lists (such as found on Rootsweb).
9. June can be a good time to hold a reunion - when the children are get out of school.
10. Have activities for the little ones.

Lastly....

   11. Enjoy the day!

A Reunion - Is It Time?

Ever since I started tracing family lines, I have dreamed of organizing a family reunion.  I confess the thought excites me, but also has me a little anxious!  (Okay, maybe a lot anxious.)  Other than hosting children's birthday parties and the occasional family Christmas, hosting large events has not been high on my priority list.

But it's time.


I thought I would start with the Howard (or Harward) family.  There are a number of cousins (on the direct and collateral lines) who still live in the area where the Howards settled in North Carolina.  Organizing a reunion in North Carolina seems a little less daunting for my first one than trying to organize one out of state.


Here's where I ask for help/suggestions from those of you who have done this! 
(Thanks to those cousins who have already given me some great ideas!)

What is the best time of year to have a reunion?  Summers are usually more flexible for families, but it sure is hot that time of year.

What are some fun ways to share the family history?


What are your tips and tricks to a successful reunion?


Haley Cousins -- Don't feel left out!  You're next on my list, so be thinking!