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Step 1
Make sure you give everyone plenty of notice. Once the details of the reunion have been determined, leave them in place. Many folks start to move the dates and times around to try to accommodate individuals. This is a huge mistake since you will then just make it impossible for others to attend. Set the date and time, and let the family members adjust their schedules.
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Step 2
Ensure that all family members are well-informed in advance about the details. Getting participation can happen only if everyone knows early. Send out invitations via email or snail mail. Snail mail is better because they will have something physical to hang on the fridge and remind them.
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Step 3
Call family members in the time leading up to the event. One of the most effective methods of getting participation is to ask that they bring something to help out--for example, an extra table, some chairs or the hot dog buns. In doing this, you are forcing them to be certain and make a decision. If they are not sure they are coming, they will generally tell you before promising to bring something.
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Step 4
Have the event at a neutral setting. Family tiffs are very common, and you do not want someone to not attend just because of where it is being held. The local city park is a wonderful place to hold the family reunion. The kids will have plenty of room, and there's no major cleanup for the hosts. Everyone can clean up after themselves.
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Step 5
Do not be afraid to enlist the help of your guests in calling the missing parties once the family reunion starts. Call and make sure that someone has not forgotten or gotten lost. There's no need for you to do all of the work when you have all that family around you!
