Planning a high school reunion can feel like a big task—but it is also an incredibly rewarding opportunity to reconnect with old friends, celebrate shared memories, and reflect on how far everyone has come. Whether you are planning your 10-year, 20-year, or even 50-year reunion, the key is to create an event that feels fun, welcoming, and easy to attend.
If you are ready to get started, here is your step-by-step guide to planning a high school reunion your classmates will not want to miss—plus, why The Clubhouse at Galloping Hill is one of the top venues in New Jersey for hosting this meaningful celebration.
Guide to Planning a High School Reunion in New Jersey
How to Plan a High School Reunion Your Classmates Will Want to Attend
Track Down Former Classmates
Start by gathering contact information for as many classmates as possible. Use social media, alumni directories, and school records to find people and create a master contact list. Facebook groups, LinkedIn, and class yearbook committees can be especially helpful in spreading the word.
Pro Tip: Ask your high school or school district if they can share contact info or send out a save-the-date email on your behalf.
Measure Interest in the Event
Before locking in any major details, get a sense of how many people would be interested in attending. Post a simple poll in your class Facebook group or send out an email asking people to respond if they want to come.
This will help you gauge what kind of venue, budget, and program you will need to plan.
Enlist the Help of a Planning Committee
Do not plan the entire reunion on your own. Form a small planning committee to share responsibilities. Assign tasks like communications, budgeting, venue research, and entertainment so no one feels overwhelmed.
This not only makes planning easier, it brings more voices to the table—which often results in a more well-rounded, enjoyable event.
Establish an Event Budget
Once you know how many people might attend, you can begin creating a realistic budget. Factor in costs like the venue, food and beverage, entertainment, decor, and marketing. Decide if you will charge ticket fees or seek sponsors and donations to offset costs.
Make sure your ticket price is reasonable and clearly communicates what is included.
Brainstorm Big-Picture Details
What kind of vibe do you want? A formal dinner and dance? A casual cocktail party? A daytime family picnic? Start outlining the vision and tone for the event, keeping your classmates’ personalities and interests in mind.
Think about elements like:
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Dress code
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Themes or colors
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Activities or games
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Speeches or awards
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Slide shows or memory walls
Book an Event Venue
Now for one of the most important steps—booking your venue. You need a space that is large enough to accommodate your group and offers the right mix of atmosphere and amenities. Look for venues with built-in catering, convenient parking, and audiovisual options to make your planning easier.
The Clubhouse at Galloping Hill checks every box for a high school reunion in New Jersey with its stunning views, spacious ballroom, and flexible indoor-outdoor layout.
Book Vendor Services for the Reunion
Depending on your vision, you may need to book additional vendors like:
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DJs or live bands
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Photographers or videographers
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Photo booth providers
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Decor rental companies
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Transportation or shuttle services
Reach out to vendors early and confirm contracts and deposit deadlines to avoid any last-minute stress.
Set Up a Reunion Website to Sell Tickets
Create a simple website with all the key event info, such as the date, time, location, ticket price, and FAQs. Make it easy for classmates to RSVP and purchase tickets online. You can also use the site to post updates, share memories, and showcase your event sponsors.
Send Official Reunion Invitations
Once your details are finalized, send out invitations via email, social media, and mail. Be sure to include:
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Date and time
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Location with address
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Ticket purchase link
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Dress code and other details
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RSVP deadline
Start promoting the event early and post regular reminders as the date approaches.
Finalize Last-Minute Details
In the final weeks, double check everything:
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Confirm headcounts and catering numbers
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Coordinate with vendors
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Finalize seating or activity plans
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Prepare signage, name tags, or programs
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Assign volunteers to help manage check-in or direct guests
Frequently Asked Questions About Planning a High School Reunion
Where Do High School Reunions Happen?
Most reunions take place every 10 years—10th, 20th, 30th, etc. They are often scheduled during the summer or early fall when travel is easier and people are more likely to attend.
How Do You Increase High School Reunion Ticket Sales
Start marketing early and often. Use social media, email newsletters, and personal outreach to get people excited. Highlight what makes your event special—whether it is the venue, entertainment, or the chance to reconnect with old friends.
Offer early bird pricing or group discounts to boost early registration.
Why Do People Attend High School Reunions
Most people attend to reconnect, catch up on old memories, and see where life has taken their classmates. It is also a great opportunity to relive shared experiences and enjoy an evening filled with laughter and nostalgia.
Why Host Your High School Reunion at The Clubhouse at Galloping Hill
If you are looking for a reunion venue that combines elegance, versatility, and ease, The Clubhouse at Galloping Hill is your perfect match. Nestled among 200 acres of lush rolling hills and a picturesque lake, this venue offers a stunning backdrop for your celebration—along with exceptional service and amenities.
Highlights of hosting your reunion at The Clubhouse include:
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A spacious ballroom with floor-to-ceiling windows and modern chandeliers
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A covered outdoor terrace with firepits and golf course views
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On-site catering with customizable menus
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A professional event staff to help every step of the way
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Convenient location in Kenilworth, New Jersey, with ample parking
Whether you are hosting 50 or 200 guests, The Clubhouse offers a memorable setting that will have your classmates raving long after the event ends.
Ready to plan your high school reunion? Contact The Clubhouse at Galloping Hill today to schedule a tour and learn more about our reunion event packages. Let’s create a night your classmates will never forget.