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Reunion Decorating Guide Set-up and Decorating Ideas

Welcoming Table

Have a central location where people can sign in. If it's a one-day event like a picnic, just set up a table. If you are spending a weekend at a resort or a hotel the concierge will be glad to help you. We like to give out nametags for everyone. A nice touch is putting pictures on each nametag from days past. My kids are always amazed at how cute I was just 25 years ago. You should have a welcome basket or bag. Include an agenda and suggestions for restaurants in the area for out of towners that have to fend for themselves for a meal or two. Some family memorabilia is a nice touch and we think a personalized candy bar is a great way to commemorate the event.   Take this opportunity to let them know where the bathrooms and other facilities are. Have them fill out a registration form to gather information for a family directory (or next year's reunion).

Expect the Unexpected

No matter how well you plan something unexpected will turn up. Don't let it ruin your day! Have some contingency plans in place and make sure you have plenty of help. Even if you're having a picnic and it rains a couple of decks of cards for a tournament, a CD player for dancing, and some funny hats and leis for the kids for "dress up" can make for a great day.

Decorating the Picnic

If you go to a hotel or restaurant they will do much of the decorating. You might want to consider a special centerpiece but for the most part trust your host to do a good job. If you are outside it's a little more challenging but still very important. Use your decorations to add color and gaiety but also to direct traffic. Balloons add color but also designate important congregation points (food, beer, games, etc.).  Make balloon bouquets with standard balloons and add in a sun or pineapple balloon for an eye-catching display.  Or use inflatable palm trees and inflatable suns to indicate key areas.  You can use life-sized cutouts to direct traffic. If Grandpa was a baseball player, a cutout of him in uniform is a perfect way to show people where and when the softball game is. 

You can also decide to theme your reunion.  This is always fun and makes decorating a snap!  A few themes that work really well for reunions are:

Have plenty of paper goods for everyone.  There are some fun styles available:

• Watermelon Picnic Paper Goods

• Backyard BBQ Paper Goods

• Flip Flop Paper Goods

• Surf's Up Paper Goods

And don't forget to decorate the people, especially the kids. Include fun items like bucket hats, sunflower glasses, or inflatable sandals.  Glow jewelry is a blast for the kids and really brightens up a pavilion or a dance floor. If someone in the family is a face painter put them to work. 

These are a few ideas that work. If you have questions or an idea that's perfect for your reunion contact the PartyGirl.

Go back to the Family Reunion Planning Guide

Questions about reunion planning? Ask the Experts!