CONTROL THE COST OF YOUR REUNION WEEKEND
Consider the following ways to streamline your budget in order to keep the class fees reasonable:
Tents - If you decide to use a tent during Reunion Weekend, minimize the cost by using it more than once or offer it to another class and share the cost (each class uses it one night); for smaller classes, use College dining facilities or a local restaurant and eliminate this item from your budget.
Music - A DJ or band is only needed for Saturday night as most people just want to reconnect on Friday night. DJ's are a cost effective way to provide entertainment and the soundtrack of your choosing. If you want to have a band, shop around as price does not always reflect quality.
Logo Items - One giveaway is sufficient; does not have to be a wearable item- avoid the hassles that sized items present- popular recent items include a cooler bag, stainless steel thermos, fleece blankets and beach towels; poll classmates on whether spouses/partners want or should receive the logo item; hats are provided by the Alumni Relations Office for all kids.
Menus and Reporting Meal Counts - Most caterers offer a variety of meal prices – carefully consider your options and know that reunion is about connecting with classmates and not having a four-star dining experience; report accurate meal counts since caterers bill for the number you expect, not the number they serve.
Breakfasts - Consider eliminating breakfasts on Friday and Saturday. The College offers breakfast in two dining halls on Friday and Saturday morning (one dining hall serves a simple continental breakfast and the other serves a more complete breakfast with eggs and meat). Alumni and their families pay for these breakfasts directly (cash). If you plan a breakfast, cut your numbers - approximately 50% of those returning do not attend breakfasts.
Class Photograph - in the past few years, only the 25th and 50th classes have done photos;
SPECIAL ASSISTANCE FUND - some classes have asked those in a position to do so to contribute to a special fund that the class uses on a highly confidential basis to help classmates who might otherwise be financially unable to attend Reunion Weekend.
