For those who graduated in Bloomington, Illinois, in 1988, the time has come to consider a class reunion! Thirty-five years is a significant milestone, offering a perfect opportunity to reconnect with old friends, reminisce about shared experiences, and celebrate the journey since leaving high school. This guide will help you navigate the planning process, answer frequently asked questions, and ensure your reunion is a resounding success.
Finding Your Classmates: Where to Begin?
Tracking down classmates after so many years can seem daunting, but with a strategic approach, it’s entirely achievable. Start with online resources. Facebook groups dedicated to Bloomington High School (or the specific high school you attended) are an excellent starting point. Classmates.com and other reunion websites can also be invaluable in locating individuals. Remember to leverage any alumni directories your high school might still maintain. Don't underestimate the power of word-of-mouth – reach out to those you’re still in touch with; they might have contact information for others.
Planning Your Bloomington, IL 1988 Class Reunion: A Step-by-Step Guide
Organizing a class reunion requires careful planning and coordination. Here’s a suggested roadmap:
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Form a Planning Committee: Assemble a dedicated team of enthusiastic classmates to share the workload. Diversity in skills and contacts is key.
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Establish a Budget: Determine how much you can realistically spend and allocate funds accordingly for venue rental, catering, decorations, invitations, and entertainment.
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Choose a Date and Venue: Select a date that accommodates the majority of your classmates and find a suitable venue – perhaps a local restaurant, banquet hall, or even a more informal setting like a park (weather permitting).
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Design and Send Invitations: Create attractive and informative invitations, including details about the date, time, location, cost, RSVP information, and a brief explanation of the reunion's purpose. Utilize digital platforms and traditional mail to maximize reach.
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Gather Photos and Yearbooks: Compile photos and yearbooks to create a nostalgic atmosphere and spark memories. Digital slideshows are a great addition to any reunion.
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Arrange Entertainment: Consider hiring a DJ, band, or simply creating a playlist of popular music from 1988. Games and activities can also add to the fun.
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Plan Food and Drinks: Cater to various dietary needs and preferences. Offer a mix of options to please everyone.
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Capture the Memories: Hire a photographer or designate someone to capture the reunion through photos and videos.
What Kind of Activities Should We Plan?
Creating a diverse range of activities ensures engagement for all your classmates. Consider:
- Memory Lane: Designate a space for displaying old photos, yearbooks, and memorabilia.
- Music and Dancing: Play music popular during your high school years and encourage dancing.
- Icebreaker Games: Help people reconnect with fun and engaging games.
- Slideshow Presentation: Compile photos and videos from your high school years.
How Can We Reach Out-of-State Classmates?
Connecting with classmates who’ve moved out of state requires a more proactive approach. Utilize social media extensively, send email invitations, and consider phone calls for those you have contact information for. A dedicated website or online platform for the reunion can serve as a central hub for information and communication.
What if I Don't Have Contact Information for Many Classmates?
Don't be discouraged! Leverage online resources like Facebook, Classmates.com, and alumni directories. Also, consider reaching out to your local high school for assistance with finding contact information.
What is the Average Cost of a Class Reunion?
The cost of a class reunion varies greatly depending on the number of attendees, venue selection, catering, and entertainment choices. Thorough planning and budgeting are crucial to keeping costs manageable.
How Far in Advance Should We Start Planning?
It’s advisable to start planning at least 6-12 months in advance to ensure sufficient time for venue booking, invitation design and distribution, and coordination with vendors.
By meticulously following these steps and addressing potential challenges proactively, your Bloomington, IL Class of 1988 reunion is sure to be an unforgettable event. Good luck, and happy reconnecting!
