{"id":25049,"date":"2021-07-19T15:35:00","date_gmt":"2021-07-19T23:35:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.spokeo.com\/compass\/?p=25049"},"modified":"2022-09-09T09:46:51","modified_gmt":"2022-09-09T17:46:51","slug":"how-to-plan-a-high-school-reunion","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.spokeo.com\/compass\/how-to-plan-a-high-school-reunion\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Plan a High School Reunion"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

High school was a time when many of us developed fast friends, close relationships and enjoyed new experiences like sports and dances.  Looking back, people tend to miss their time in school and that is where high school reunions come into play.  Psychologists suggest that reunions are a great way to revisit old memories and channel the teenager you used to be.  A trip down memory lane can help you gain relevant insight<\/a> into the person you\u2019ve become today.  But that\u2019s not the most important part: A well-planned reunion can be surprisingly fun. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When planning a high school reunion, it can be difficult to know where to start. So, how can you make the planning effortless?  When you\u2019re charged with organizing a high school reunion, a good committee and a little technology can make it easier to organize the big event.  Here\u2019s how to get started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Planning for the Reunion: Put Together a Committee<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The first order of business is to establish a reunion committee.  For this, you\u2019ll need five or so go-getters who are willing to spend their time on the details of the event.  The committee should appoint a leader.  Remember that the larger the committee, the more difficult it will be to get things done. If necessary, divide the committee into subgroups so that the effort is more efficient. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you have your committee in place, it\u2019s time to get planning!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Find Your Classmates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Before you can have a reunion, you need to find classmates.  Certainly you\u2019ll want to create a Facebook page to help track RSVPs and share updates easily, but remember that not everyone has a social media profile.  The best way to find everyone is to use a people search engine, like Spokeo<\/a>.  With Spokeo, you can use the information you do have about your classmates \u2014 such as a first and last name (even a maiden name) to locate email addresses, mailing addresses, phone numbers and more.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Using the contact information you uncovered on Spokeo or social media, create your guest list.  Then, work with your committee to send out invitations and start to fundraise.  You\u2019ll also want to come up with a communication cadence to generate excitement and send reminders so you can get the best attendance possible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Determine a Budget<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You will definitely need a budget before you can start to make any concrete plans for the reunion, so start by determining how much money is required for the event based on the number of people you expect to attend.  Make your budget estimates generous, as you can always save surplus funds for the next reunion or donate to charity.  Then, determine how you\u2019ll finance your reunion \u2014 you may have to do some fundraising or charge for tickets, probably a combination of both.  Finally, assign one trustworthy person within the group to be treasurer, responsible for collecting proceeds, putting the money in the bank and paying the bills. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Pick Your Location and Food<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Once you\u2019ve determined the reunion date and have the money to pay a deposit, secure your location.  For a low-budget option, consider using the high school gym or having a picnic at a local park.  You don\u2019t need to rent the ballroom at a luxury hotel and serve a sit-down dinner.  But if that\u2019s how your class rolls, go for it.  Just be sure that ticket sales, or a generous benefactor, can cover the expense.  Also, set aside a few tickets for those who cannot afford to pay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Themed Decorations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As with location, you can be as lavish as you want with decorations.  You can also deploy a reunion theme that requires little or no money.  Enlarge pictures from past school events, or make your decorations from recycled materials.  Hang a hand-painted banner and bring in the school pep squad for a little nostalgic cheer.  If you choose to spend money on decorating, remember that the goal is to make your classmates feel comfortable and welcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Plan Engaging Activities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Even with the best location and great food, the party will fall flat if people don\u2019t engage.  Classmates may have drifted apart, so you\u2019ll need activities to encourage classmates to reconnect<\/a>.  Don\u2019t be afraid to use ice breakers.  But know your audience and its tolerance for games.  Here are some ideas that are adult enough to invite participation, yet entertaining:<\/p>\n\n\n\n