Helping People Defer Some of the Expenses of a Reunion

Even before this economy became unstable, some people were thinking that $95.00 for a ticket to their class reunion was steep. I've explained how it's not just the meal and banquet hall that costs so much. It's the entertainment, the party favors, decorations, cost of mailings, monthly survey and e-mail blasting services, video transfers, website hosting costs, office supplies etc. that really impact the final cost.

For our reunion, I know $95.00 is the right price point. But I also know that some people would be more likely to come if it were somewhat less.

How how do we help them?

  • At the beginning of ticket sales (about 10 months prior to the event) offer a discount -$10.00 off the price. This is an important incentive to get people to sign on early, so you can meet the minimum that the hotel requires. It also helps them out financially - win/win.
  • Another idea centers around what I call "scholarships." One month before the reunion, offer $20 off the ticket price for classmates who have been out of work 5 months or longer. No questions asked. All they have to do is call the reunion planner. You can put a cap on the number of people you help based on how much you budget for this discount.
Now you may be wondering where does the money come from for these generous offerings?

  • Well there are very generous people out there. If you ask, you will find that there are classmates who can afford to sponsor other classmates and do. These generous souls will kick in $40-100.00 just so other classmates can come and can remain anonymous to make everyone remain comfortable. Put the suggestion out there as early as you can. You will be surprised at the number of well-heeled people who will offer to lend a financial hand to their classmates.

  • Another source of reveune is leftover funds from the previous reunion. Hopefully you have a slush fund from the previous reunion. (First reunion? You need to start a slush fund with any leftover cash from your first event. Deposit it in an interest bearing account in the name of the Class - not you personally).

  • And don't forget fundraisers. You've got an email list. You know how to use it. During the years in between reunions find "something" that will sell well to your classmates and put the proceeds in a kitty for the next reunion. It's a great source of "scholarship" money.

Be creative. The only thing better than having a little extra cash, is being able to use it to help people afford the reunion. Remember this is not about making money. It's about helping people get there.

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