Sharon's Thoughts
I will share my thoughts on organizing a simple reunion event.
Start
1. Start at least 12-18 months ahead of time. Booking a place and finding classmates will take, at least, this long.
Finding Classmates
Undoubltedly, this is the hardest part of a reunion. If you can, find help from others. I used the following search process.
1. Draft up a database or spreadsheet with the graduation names of all classmates. Leave one column blank for married names. Use a yearbook or graduation program if you have one.
2. Ask classmates who seem to be actively involved with others if they have any contact info. They most likely will have some initial contacts to get you started.
3. As you find classmates, call them or email them and ask if they know contact info for any classmates.
4. Contact your school and ask if they have information on any alumni.
5. Contact others who may have coordinated previous reunions and ask if they will help you in your search. They will usually have a contact list from their event, or at the least, some married names of female classmates.
6. I used Zabasearch to try to find classmates with unusual names, or those who I had at least their state residence. Then I verified that info through Google and local phone directories, or online White pages. Then I called and verified.
7. Be prepared to call Moms, Dad, ex-spouses, siblings, etc.. in your quest to find some classmates. This is where your own ability to gain the confidence of these people will be important. Make sure you explain who you are, why you are calling. If they are reluctant to share info with you, offer them an option to have your classmate contact you in a number of ways (phone, email, website, snail-mail).
Classmate Contact
1. Initial contacts should be done via the telephone. Talking to the person directly will help to get the person enthused about the reunion.
2. Continuing informational contacts can be made through email, but keep in mind that email addresses change.
3. Registration contact should be done via mail. I used an online service that printed the postcard and mailed it out for me. I just submitted the designed postcard and classmate mailing lists. A postcard, of this type, will give your classmate something concrete to keep to remind them to register. As we get older, this becomes even more important!
Finding a 'Team'
1. Make sure you find others who are actually willing to roll up their sleeves and work. You will need all the help you can get!
Events
1. Consider your audience and the extent of your reunion events.