1. The Planning of our 2012 family reunion
This is to assist us in planning a less stressful and more successful family reunion.

2. Make sure there's interest
Before we get started planning next years family reunion, we must first determine if there is an interest in a committee from family members. We’d hate to spend time and energy putting a family reunion together only to have a few members attend. I have put together a facebook account and websit for those that would like to express interest, we are asking for your help to plan the event. (so far our committee consist of me-La Tanya, Le Toya & La Toni Mitchell; Sataria, George, Annie & Tarla Bates; and Roy Miles)

3. Get help and form committees
Involving people in the planning process makes it easier for us and gives others a stake in the event’s success. We will be making a list of the areas we will need help with. This might include save the date invitations, site arrangements, transportation, food, games and activities and cleanup. Organize committees and match the abilities and interests of our relatives with the functions of the committees. We will have your committees keep records and compile them in a reunion binder that we can hand off to next year’s planner

4. Make a checklist
. One of the best ways to stay organized is to create a timeline and checklist for items that must be accomplished for our family reunion. We’ve covered the basics for a large family gathering planned one year in advance on the Gatherings Timeline & Checklist. We will check off each step as it's completed. 

5. Decide the type of reunion you want
All families are different. Some require nothing more than food and a park to have a good time. Others prefer a banquet hall with a DJ. We want to start talking with our family about what type of family reunion they want. Keep in mind that the earlier we get this started, the more prepared we will be and maybe more members will be able to attend.

6. Location & Budget
Summertime, Mothers day weekend is traditionally the time of year for our family reunions. So far that has be very convenient for everyone so we won’t be making any changes there. Choosing the right location is a key part of a successful reunion. Think about what our family plans to do during the reunion and pick a location conducive to those activities. We’ve had our reunion in the same location for the past several years however finding a new location would have to be thought out carefully and voted upon. If you have any suggestions remember, wherever you look, consider the services available, capacity, cost, accessibility, restrooms and availability – and if necessary, be sure to reserve the location as soon as possible. Please speak with Annie Bates or Roy Miles with all the details.
Because we usually host a potluck buffet our expenses can be relatively low such as $40 per family or $25 per single member. Larger reunions may require more substantial funding. Roy Lee and Aunt Ease will be keeping accurate records of all expenses. We already have a special checking account set up to help keep track of revenues and expenses. We don’t want anyone to feel like they have to foot the bill on there own. We would really appreciate it if family members would help by contributing, or hold a fundraiser.

7. Plan our food
Having the right food can make or break our reunion. Prior to the reunion a check list will go out to the family about food allergies or aversions before choosing food. Being that our reunion will be held at an indoor location, we will get a list of options and create a couple of menus that fit within your budget. If you plan to have a potluck, decide what types of dishes everyone should bring. More ideas on planning the perfect menu.

8. Theme & Activities
A theme can serve as a rallying cry. This year La Toni – Candy decorated our reunion with the Mardi Gras and it was fabulous. We would like to keep that theme going weather it’s the same or a different theme every so many years just to try something different and fun. Themes are limited only by your imagination
Planning a few games and activities for our reunion can help relatives (especially those who don’t see each other often) relax and feel comfortable. Activities can also keep kids happy and occupied so that the adults can talk. The possibilities are endless — from a little friendly competition to icebreakers, to crafts that express your creativity. Below will be a list to decide what games and activities will be appropriate for our reunion and our theme.

9. Invitations
Our first “save-the-date” invitation will be sent out as soon as we’ve decided on our theme. That way our family can put the reunion on their calendars early, and they’ll be more likely to attend. We also will be doing a potluck, so we will be utilizing our website and our invitation to assign dishes. Because our reunion is at the same date every year, there will be no reminder sent out before the gathering to discuss the menu but we might contact you to ensure attendance.

10. Capture the memories
Our family reunion will be a memorable event. It’s also the perfect time to explore and preserve our family’s history and traditions. We can capture the memories in many ways including photographs, video recordings, video heirlooms and scrapbooks. And, while the family is all together, it’s the perfect time to create or update our family tree.