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Choosing a Location

When considering a venue for your class reunion there are many factors you will need to consider. Before you go overboard and start pricing luxury international real estate rentals, you will first need to decide how formal or informal an event you want to have. Cost factors certainly will play a big role in the decision process with expected costs typically ranging anywhere from $25 - $100 per participant depending how elaborate of an event you are planning. You will also need to consider the number of expected participants. Options for smaller classes generally tend to be more limited as some facilities may require headcount minimums.

It is important that whatever venue you choose that you make sure it can comfortably accommodate dining, socializing and dancing if you are planning to have music. 

Location 
If possible try to choose a location that is centralized for local classmates and in fairly close proximity to your high school or to other events you are planning. Part of the reunion atmosphere is just being in the old area that you grew up in.

Informal Reunions ($25-$50 per participant)
If you are planning an informal reunion, have a smaller class size or just want to keep costs at a minimum then here are some options to consider:

• Picnic / BBQ at a local park 
  This can be a catered event or handled by class volunteers. Of course whenever planning an outdoor event weather has to be taken into consideration. Look for facilities that offer shelters in the event of rain that are large enough to accommodate participants comfortably.
• Dinner at a local restaurant
  Try to choose a restaurant that can offer you a private area separate from main dining area. Smaller restaurants may even offer exclusive use of their facilities for your event.
• Hotels
  Some hotels may offer banquet facilities that can accommodate smaller gatherings at reasonable prices. Check to see if they have catering facilities or will allow you to hire your own caterer.
  

Formal Reunions ($50 - $100 per participant) 
Many classmates enjoy the aspects of a more formal reunion. It can make for a more memorable event and for many makes participating more appealing. Sure you may pay more but what the heck...it only happens once every 5 or 10 years!

If you are planning a more formal reunion here are some options to consider:

• Banquet / catering facilities
• Country Clubs
• Hotels
  Hotels that offer both banquet facilities & room accommodations provide a very convenient venue for out of town classmates and for local classmates who may not want to drive home after the reunion. Be sure to reserve blocks of rooms for your classmates in advance. If possible try to reserve room blocks on the same floor or adjoining floors which allows opportunities for some pre-reunion and post reunion socializing and also minimizes impact to other hotel guests.
  
  Encourage classmates to book a room to minimize risk of over indulging and getting behind the wheel.
  
• Restaurants
  Some restaurants are equipped with banquet facilities. Try to choose a restaurant that offers a private area separate from main dining area.
  
  Allow yourself plenty of lead time to reserve more formal facilities.

Other venues
Here are some other options to consider: 

• Reunion Cruise ($300 - $800 per classmate)
  Some classes organize reunion cruises. While this can be a great venue for having your class reunion, you have to consider for many the cost may be out of reach. 

Negotiate
Remember during your venue selection process make sure to compare prices and negotiate, negotiate, negotiate!