Planning a high school reunion can be as thrilling as it is challenging. It’s a chance to reconnect with old friends, reminisce about the good times, and maybe even show off a little. Whether you’re part of the organizing committee or flying solo in this endeavor, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan a successful high school reunion (easily!). And to keep things light, we’ll sprinkle in some practical advice and real-life examples along the way. So, let’s get started on making your reunion unforgettable!
1. Establish a Planning Committee
Why You Need a Committee
Planning a reunion is a big task, and trying to do it all alone can be overwhelming. A planning committee can share the workload and bring different perspectives and ideas to the table.
Forming the Committee
Start by reaching out to classmates who were active in school activities or are well-connected with others. Use social media, emails, or good old-fashioned phone calls to gather a group of enthusiastic volunteers.
Remember, a planning committee is like a group project in high school – but this time, you actually want people who will do their share of the work!
2. Set a Date and Venue
Choosing the Date
Select a date that allows enough time for planning and gives classmates plenty of notice. Typically, reunions are held on a weekend to accommodate travel plans. Aim for a date at least six months to a year in advance.
Selecting the Venue
Consider the size of your class and the type of event you want. Options include:
- School Gymnasium: Nostalgic and budget-friendly
- Hotel Banquet Hall: Professional and offers catering options
- Park or Outdoor Venue: Casual and fun, perfect for summer reunions
Real Example: For their 20-year reunion, the Class of ’98 from Lincoln High rented a lakeside pavilion. It was both scenic and spacious, allowing for a laid-back barbecue atmosphere.
3. Budgeting and Fundraising
Creating a Budget
List all potential expenses, including:
- Venue rental
- Catering
- Decorations
- Entertainment (DJ or band)
- Photography
- Marketing and communication
Fundraising Ideas
To cover costs, consider:
- Selling tickets: Set a price that covers expenses while remaining affordable
- Sponsorships: Local businesses might be willing to sponsor in exchange for advertising
- Merchandise: Sell class-themed T-shirts or memorabilia
Fundraising can be like those bake sales we used to have – except now we have real jobs and can just buy the cookies ourselves!
4. Invitations and RSVPs
Creating Invitations
Designing eye-catching invitations can get classmates excited. Include important details like date, time, venue, ticket price, and RSVP instructions.
Sending Invitations
You may need to obtain the current contacts for all your classmates first in order to send out the invites. Try the Names and Facts online people search to quickly obtain a full list emails, phone numbers, and postal addresses to make this process easier.
Use any of the following channels once you have the contacts:
- Email: Quick and easy
- Social Media: Create an event page on Facebook or a class group
- Traditional Mail: Adds a personal touch and reaches those who might not be active online
Tracking RSVPs
Use online tools like Google Forms or Eventbrite to manage RSVPs and ticket sales efficiently.
Real Example: The Class of ’05 from Central High used a combination of Facebook events and email invitations, resulting in a higher turnout than expected.
5. Planning the Program
Creating an Agenda
Plan a mix of activities that cater to different interests:
- Welcome Reception: Start with a casual mingling session
- Dinner and Drinks: A buffet or sit-down meal followed by a bar service
- Entertainment: Music, dancing, or even a talent show
- Memory Lane: A slideshow or video showcasing old photos and memories
- Speeches and Awards: Recognize achievements and share funny stories
Remember, the goal is to have fun. No one wants to sit through a three-hour lecture – we got enough of those in high school!
6. Decorations and Memorabilia
Setting the Scene
Choose decorations that evoke nostalgia:
- School Colors: Balloons, banners, and tablecloths in school colors
- Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth with props for fun pictures
- Memory Wall: Display old photos, yearbooks, and memorabilia
Creating Keepsakes
Provide something for classmates to take home:
- Class Yearbook: A mini-version with updated photos and bios
- T-shirts or Mugs: Personalized with the school logo and reunion details
- Photo Albums: Collect photos from the event and share them digitally or in print
Real Example: At their 30-year reunion, the Class of ’88 from Riverside High created a digital yearbook that included then-and-now photos and personal updates from classmates.
7. Food and Drinks
Catering Options
Depending on your budget and venue, options include:
- Buffet: Offers variety and accommodates different dietary needs
- Sit-Down Dinner: More formal but requires careful planning and seating arrangements
- Potluck: Budget-friendly and nostalgic, though it can be challenging to coordinate
Beverage Service
Offer a selection of drinks:
- Open Bar: Popular but can be expensive
- Cash Bar: More affordable and ensures responsible drinking
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Always have water, soda, and juice available
Just remember, no cafeteria food! We’ve all moved on from mystery meat and lumpy mashed potatoes.
8. Entertainment and Activities
Music
Hire a DJ or band to play a mix of current hits and nostalgic tunes. Create a playlist of songs that were popular during your high school years.
Games and Contests
Keep things lively with interactive activities:
- Trivia Quiz: Questions about your school, teachers, and classmates
- Dance-Off: Get everyone on the dance floor for a fun competition
- Awards: Give out funny awards like “Most Changed” or “Class Clown”
Real Example: The Class of ’92 from Green Valley High hosted a karaoke contest, which was a hit. Everyone enjoyed singing along to their favorite 90s songs.
9. Capturing the Moments
Hiring a Photographer
A professional photographer can capture candid moments and group shots. Consider setting up a photo booth with props for fun, shareable pictures.
Video Recording
Hire a videographer or ask a tech-savvy classmate to record the event. Compile the footage into a highlight reel that can be shared later.
Social Media Sharing
Create a unique hashtag for the event and encourage classmates to share their photos and memories on social media.
Make sure to get a group photo early in the evening before the open bar turns everyone into dancing machines!
10. Communication and Promotion
Building Excitement
Keep classmates informed and excited in the lead-up to the reunion:
- Regular Updates: Send periodic emails or social media posts with updates and reminders
- Countdown: Start a countdown to the big day to build anticipation
- Engage on Social Media: Share throwback photos and memories to keep the conversation going
Last-Minute Reminders
As the event approaches, send reminders about:
- Date and time
- Venue address and directions
- Dress code
- What to bring (e.g., tickets, ID)
Real Example: The Class of ’85 from Springfield High created a reunion website with all the details and used it to post updates and engage with classmates.
11. Handling Logistics
Travel and Accommodations
Provide information on nearby hotels, transportation options, and parking arrangements. Consider reserving a block of rooms at a hotel for out-of-town guests.
Accessibility
Ensure the venue is accessible for classmates with disabilities. Provide clear information on how to access the venue and any special accommodations available.
Emergency Plan
Have a plan in place for emergencies. Assign someone to be the point of contact for any issues that arise during the event.
Remember, we’re older and wiser now, so safety first – no more climbing trees or jumping off the roof like in high school!
12. Day-of Coordination
Set-Up and Decorations
Arrive early to set up decorations, arrange seating, and ensure everything is in place. Enlist the help of volunteers from your committee.
Greeting and Registration
Have a registration table where attendees can check in, pick up name tags, and get a program for the evening.
Keeping Things on Schedule
Stick to the agenda to ensure everything runs smoothly. Assign someone to keep track of time and make announcements as needed.
Real Example: The Class of ’97 from Lakeview High assigned committee members specific roles for the day, ensuring everything from registration to cleanup went off without a hitch.
13. Icebreakers and Mingling
Name Tags
Provide name tags with large, easy-to-read fonts. Consider adding graduation photos to the tags for a fun touch.
Icebreaker Activities
Help classmates reconnect with fun icebreakers:
- Find Someone Who: A bingo-style game where attendees find classmates who match certain descriptions (e.g., “Find someone who was on the basketball team”)
- Memory Jar: Set up a jar where people can write down and share their favorite high school memories
No need for those awkward high school icebreakers like “Two Truths and a Lie” – we’ve all lived enough to have some pretty wild truths by now!
14. Handling Finances
Tracking Expenses
Keep a detailed record of all expenses and income (ticket sales, donations, etc.). This helps ensure you stay within budget and can account for every dollar.
Reconciliation
After the event, reconcile your budget. If there’s a surplus, decide as a committee whether to save it for the next reunion or donate it to a school cause.
Transparency
Maintain transparency with your committee and classmates about how funds are being used. This builds trust and ensures accountability.
Real Example: The Class of ’02 from Westfield High created a shared spreadsheet for tracking expenses and donations, which helped them stay organized and transparent.
15. Post-Reunion Follow-Up
Thank You Notes
Send thank you notes or emails to attendees, sponsors, and volunteers. Express gratitude for their participation and support.
Sharing Photos and Videos
Compile and share photos and videos from the event. Create an online album or a social media group where classmates can contribute their own pictures.
Feedback
Ask for feedback to learn what worked well and what could be improved for future reunions. Use surveys or social media polls to gather input.
And don’t forget to thank your committee – they’ll need a break after all that hard work. Maybe even a mini-reunion to unwind and laugh about the planning process!
Conclusion
Planning a high school reunion is a labor of love that can bring immense joy and nostalgia to everyone involved. By following these steps and staying organized, you can create an event that celebrates the past while forging new memories for the future. Remember, the key is to keep things fun and relaxed – after all, it’s about reconnecting and enjoying each other’s company.
Whether your reunion is a small gathering or a grand affair, the effort you put into planning will pay off in smiles, laughter, and cherished memories. So, gather your committee, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to plan an unforgettable high school reunion!
FAQ:
How far in advance should we start planning a high school reunion?
It’s best to start planning at least 6 months to a year in advance. This gives you ample time to organize, fundraise, and notify classmates.
How do we handle classmates who have moved or changed contact information?
Utilize social media, alumni networks, and word of mouth to track down classmates. Consider creating a reunion website where people can update their contact information. Alternatively, use Names and Facts to easily find your classmates’ contacts online.
What if we have a small budget?
Consider cost-effective options like a potluck picnic in a local park or renting the school gym. Fundraising through ticket sales and sponsorships can also help manage costs.
How do we ensure a good turnout?
Promote the event early and often. Use engaging content, like throwback photos and stories, to build excitement. Personal invitations and reminders can also boost attendance.
What should we do if there’s a surplus of funds after the reunion?
Decide as a committee whether to save the surplus for future reunions, donate it to the school, or use it for a class gift or charity. Transparency with classmates about the use of funds is important.
