Today (April 1), many people around the world will participate in playing practical jokes or hoaxes for April Fools’ Day. While meant to be a lighthearted custom, reactions can be mixed with some finding amusement while others may not always appreciate the humor. When it comes to your reunion planning, don’t be tricked into making these three mistakes.
- Waiting Until the Last Minute. Family reunions involve coordinating schedules, booking a venue, and (for many attendees) making travel arrangements. Waiting too long to set a date, secure a location, or coordinate logistics can lead to low attendance and unnecessary chaos. Ideally, start planning at least 6-12 months in advance to give everyone time to prepare. Don’t let your failure to plan early cause obstacles right from the start.
- Not Considering Everyone’s Budget and Needs. Enthusiasm for your event can unwittingly cause a tendency to overspend. A reunion that’s too expensive or inconvenient may exclude family members. Ignoring dietary restrictions, mobility needs, or family dynamics can also create unexpected conflicts. Choose a location and activities that accommodate all ages and financial situations to encourage participation and increase enjoyment.
- “We’ll Just Wing It.” Having noreal plan or waiting until the day of the reunion may lead to boredom or confusion for attendees. On the other hand, overloading the schedule to try and pack every moment with activities, while leaving little room for natural conversation and spontaneous interactions, is not a sound strategy either. Striking a balance is key. Aim for a basic itinerary with a clear start and end time, mealtimes and planned events, but with enough free time for socializing.
This reunion season, remember to keep on top of your planning so you don’t feel like a fool when it’s “Go time!”
