If you are hosting a reunion in the latter part of 2024 or during 2025, consider making your shopping list now and take advantage of the “Back-to-School” sales in late August or early September.
Reunion Staples
Paper products, decorations, notebooks, pens, poster board, chalk, storage bins, and other non-perishable items are items that can be bought in advanced and stored until your event. Designate one or two reunion planners to be the main shoppers to avoid buying more than you need or duplication of effort.
Clearance Sales
Watch for sales at office supply and party stores, warehouse clubs and popular retail outlets. Online shopping sites will also often offer special deals. If you are not a member, consider signing up for a 30-day free trial to take advantage of discounts and free shipping/delivery. If you are planning to incorporate family history into your reunion, look for sales at genealogy websites such as Ancestry https://www.ancestry.com or MyHeritage https://www.myheritage.com on membership subscriptions and DNA test kits. Check for special deals on the Vivid-Pix® Memory Station
https://www.vivid-pix.com/memorystation/ so you can plan a photo sharing and scanning session at your event. If you live in a state with sales tax on clothing or other items, research when there may be a tax-free weeks/weekends and do your shopping then. You can find this information online at https://taxadmin.org/2024-sales-tax-holidays.
Make a List and Price Compare
If you are planning your first reunion, create a budget and make a list of what you would like to or need to buy for the event. If you host an annual reunion now is a good time to take inventory so you can replenish or add items. Keeping your list stored digitally on your smartphone (in the Notes app or other program) will ensure you have it ready for unanticipated shopping trips or pop-up sales.
Your reunion will be here before you know it. A bit of advanced planning and shopping savvy will help you stay within your budget and perhaps allow for a few extra splurge items to make sure your event is a memorable one.
