The First 5 Things to Do When Planning a Family Reunion

By TeeUnions – Shirts for Big Moments

Planning a family reunion can feel like juggling flaming hula hoops while texting 12 cousins who never respond. But don’t worry — with a little structure and a lot of heart, you can bring everyone together and keep your sanity intact.

Whether this is your first time or your fifth, here are the first five things you should do when starting the planning process.

1. Decide Who’s Leading the Planning

Start by confirming: Who’s in charge? You might be solo (bless you), or you may want to form a planning team with clear roles — like:
- Venue + Lodging
- Food & Activities
- T-Shirts + Keepsakes
- Communication & Tech

Pro Tip: Don’t try to do it all alone. Even one helper can make a huge difference.

2. Pick a Date — Fast

Before people can RSVP or book travel, they need a date. Choose 2–3 weekend options and send a quick group message or survey to find the best fit.
Consider:
- School schedules
- Work holidays
- Local weather
- Your elders’ availability

3. Secure Your Location Early

The best parks, halls, and Airbnb rentals get snatched up months in advance — especially in the summer. Your venue doesn't have to be fancy — just accessible, clean, and big enough for everyone.

Use our checklist to track:
- Deposit/payment info
- Seating and restroom needs
- Backup plan for bad weather

4. Set Your Budget (Before You Spend a Dime)

Money can get tricky in family settings, so be transparent early.

Break your budget into categories like:
- Food
- Shirts or merchandise
- Activities/games
- Decorations + keepsakes
- Emergency/reserve fund

Even if you’re not collecting money yet, knowing your target helps guide all future decisions.

5. Get Organized — Before the Chaos Begins

It’s never too early to start collecting:
- Names and contact info
- RSVP counts
- Family shirt sizes
- Local vendor options
- Notes from previous reunions

Bonus Tip: Don’t Overwhelm Yourself

Your reunion doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful. Focus on connection, not complication — and remember, TeeUnions is here to help you look good while making memories that last.

Ready for Matching Shirts?

Nothing says unity like custom tees for your crew. Shop our family reunion shirt collection — with matching designs, color options for each branch, and personalization for names or dates.