The Best High School & Class Reunion Party Planning Checklist
published
January 23, 2025
Planning a high school reunion can be a blast, but it can also feel like juggling a million details at once. From booking the perfect venue to making sure everyone gets their invites, it's easy for things to slip through the cracks. That's why we've created the ultimate reunion planning checklist. Our downloadable checklist is your secret weapon to keep everything on track and ensure you don't miss a beat. Say goodbye to stress and hello to a fantastic reunion—download it now and get ready to party!
Download Your Own Copy Of Our PDF High School Reunion Party Planning Checklist
The rest of this page will guide you through the contents of our downloadable checklist, breaking down each step to ensure your high school reunion is a success. From initial planning stages to the final touches, you'll find detailed instructions and tips to keep you on track. Take it from the top, or skip to the topic that interests you most:
Comprehensive High School Reunion Party Planning Checklist
Planning a high school reunion is an exciting opportunity to reconnect with old classmates and celebrate shared memories. Follow this comprehensive checklist to ensure a successful and memorable event.
1. Enlist Volunteers to Help
- Assemble a Committee: Recruit a team of motivated volunteers to divide and conquer the planning tasks.
- Assign Roles: Designate roles and responsibilities such as chairperson, event coordination, outreach, budgeting, and decorations.
- Stay Connected: Set up regular meetings and use communication tools to stay on track.
2. Set the Date
- Pick a Reunion-Friendly Date: Choose a date that avoids major holidays and gives attendees enough time to plan.
- Send Save-the-Dates: Notify alumni once the date is finalized to increase attendance.
3. Establish a Budget
- Determine Total Costs: Outline expenses such as venue, catering, entertainment, and decorations.
- Ticket Pricing: Decide on ticket costs to cover expenses while remaining affordable for attendees.
- Raise Funds: Consider sponsorships, donations, or raffles to supplement the budget.
4. Choose a Venue
- Venue Requirements: Select a location that accommodates your expected turnout and matches the event vibe.
- Book Early: Secure your preferred venue well in advance to lock in your date.
- Back-Up Plan: Consider indoor and outdoor options in case of weather concerns.
5. Plan the Program
- Create a Schedule: Outline the event timeline, including speeches, entertainment, and socializing time.
- Incorporate Fun Activities: Consider icebreakers, a memory slideshow, or a "Most Likely To" awards ceremony.
- Special Tributes: Dedicate a moment to honor classmates no longer with you..
6. Book Vendors and Services
- Catering and Drinks: Decide between a sit-down meal, buffet, or light appetizers, along with beverage options.
- Photography/Videography: Hire professionals to capture the event or set up a photo booth for fun memories.
- Entertainment: Choose between a DJ, live band, or nostalgic playlist of your graduating year’s hits.
7. Send Invitations
- Design Invitations: Create visually appealing invites that match the reunion theme.
- Email and Social Media: Use email and alumni social media groups to distribute invitations
- RSVP Management: Track responses and follow up with classmates who haven’t RSVP’d.
- Employ Organizational Tools: Services like Eventbrite, Reunacy, and Class Creator can help you with all the above tasks.
8. Plan Decorations and Reunion Swag
- Class-Themed Decor: Incorporate school color party accessories, banners, or memorabilia to set the mood.
- Swag and Tokens: Offer custom printed alumni keepsakes like T-shirts, tote bags, or custom tumblers with your class year.
- Memory Displays: Include a "then and now" photo wall or a scrapbook table for nostalgia.
- Make Each Reunion Unique: For a 10-year high school reunion, decorate with trends of the last decade. For a 20-year reunion, consider a 1920’s flapper-era speakeasy theme. Deck out your event space in silver for a 25-year silver jubilee event.
9. Day-of Logistics
- Early Arrival: Arrive early to oversee setup and ensure everything is running smoothly.
- Volunteer Coordination: Brief your team on their roles and provide a clear schedule.
- Welcome Attendees: Set up a check-in table to distribute name tags and welcome packets.
10. Post-Event Follow-Up
- Thank-You Notes: Send thank-you messages to attendees, vendors, and volunteers.
- Share Photos: Post pictures on social media or email them to attendees.
- Gather Feedback: Use a quick survey to get insights for future reunions. Include a check box for attendees who would like to be contacted about helping to plan the next reunion.
This checklist ensures your high school reunion will be well-organized, enjoyable, and a memorable experience for all attendees. Whether it’s reconnecting over nostalgic decor or dancing to the soundtrack of your school years, every detail counts.
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