Planning Tips for Large Groups!

Deciding to get the family together is the easy part.   Pulling it off...well, that's another story.  Here are some hints from our Family Reunion Planners:

• Start Early: Set the date 12- 18 months ahead of your trip, just to get the event on everybody's calendar.  By planning a year or more out, you are more likely to get your preferred property reservations and party sites as well as have more time to shop around for cheaper airfares.
   
  
• Communicate early and often: Schedule a regular monthly e-mail or telephone conference with one representative from each household.
   
  
• Keep a calendar: Not everything can be booked as far ahead as you'd like.  WDW IllumiNations cruises, for example, can only be reserved a maximum of 90 days out.  Keep a list of important "reserve by" dates (the aforementioned cruises are notorious for selling out within hours of going on sale).  Be sure to include deadlines for deposits and full payments schedules to avoid accidental cancellations.
   
  
• Consider the age span: A formal shindig at Victoria & Albert's may seem like a grand idea.  But how much fun will it be for your sister whose baby will be six months old at the time?  Consider babysitters (we can help with referrals) but make sure that all the parents are comfortable with the arrangement.
   
  
• Hit the ground strolling instead of running: Give people a chance acclimate.  Resist the urge to have an event the moment you arrive--particularly  if you are entertaining folks from multiple time zones.  Everyone will thank you for this one.
   
  
• Schedule together-time: Decide before hand, and reserve where possible, activities (brunches, tours, game nights, karaoke nights...)that will be kids-only, adults-only, and for everyone.
   
  
• Avoid too much together -time: Be sure to leave lots of free time for independent activities.  Offer suggestions so people know what's available.
   
  
• Get the word out: Send each family an itinerary before you leave so that there are no surprises for anyone and you can all arrive and relax in Florida style.
   
  
• Capture the memory: Equip your entire group (even the youngest) with disposable cameras.