Family gatherings can sometimes be a source of stress instead of enjoyment. If you’re responsible for hosting, you might feel the pressure to ensure everyone has a good time. Or, if you’re not particularly close with your family, gatherings can be an awkward affair.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to make family gatherings more fun for everyone involved. Following these tips can turn your next family get-together into a memorable and enjoyable event.
Set the tone with your invitations.
The first step to having a fun family gathering is to set the tone with your invitations. Instead of just sending out a generic invite or emailing everyone the date and time, put some thought into your invitations. Include a fun graphic or photo, and use wording that conveys the tone you want for the event.
For example, if you’re hoping to have a casual and relaxed gathering, use wording like “come as you are” or “kick back and relax.” On the other hand, if you want a more formal affair, use wording like “dress to impress” or “RSVP required.”
Adding creative elements to your invitations is a great way to do whatever tone you want to set. This will help get everyone excited for the gathering and ensure it’s a fun event. It also gives your family members a chance to dress up or express themselves in a way they usually wouldn’t.
Wear matching outfits.
A fun way to make family gatherings more festive is to have everyone dress in coordinating outfits. This doesn’t have to mean wearing matching sweaters or shirts—it can be as simple or creative as you’d like.
For instance, why not all wear tropical-inspired clothing if you’re planning a beach day? Or if it’s an outdoor BBQ, everyone could wear their favorite pair of jeans and a custom T-shirt with the family name. You can always opt for custom screen printing services to get these matching T-shirts.
Matching outfits can also create lasting memories by providing a great photo opportunity. Bonding with family members can also be fun, as everyone can choose their style and create something unique together.
Plan some fun activities.
One of the best ways to make your family gathering enjoyable is to plan fun activities. This will help keep things from getting too dull or too tense. Of course, your actions will depend on your guests’ age and interests.
If you have young children attending, plan some games or crafts that they can do. Consider preparing a group activity like charades or Pictionary for older kids and adults. You could even create a scavenger hunt or treasure hunt for everyone to enjoy.
No matter what you choose, ensure enough explanation and instructions so everyone can participate. And be sure to set aside plenty of time for the activities, so no one feels rushed.
Planning some fun activities will ensure that your family gathering is a memorable and enjoyable event for everyone. The key is choosing activities that will appeal to as many people as possible and help break the ice if people feel shy or uncomfortable around each other.
Make sure there’s enough food and drink.
Nothing puts a damper on a family gathering like running out of food or drink. So, prepare enough for everyone—plus extras in case unexpected guests appear (which always seems to happen). It’s also essential to offer various food and drink options so that everyone will find something they like.
To properly ensure there’s enough food and drinks for everyone at your family gathering, take the following steps:
- Make a list of what food and drinks you’ll need and how much you’ll need. This will help you plan ahead and not run out of anything.
- Purchase the food and drinks well in advance, so you don’t have to worry about it last minute.
- Set up a designated area where people can help themselves to food and drinks. This will help prevent traffic jams in the kitchen or around the table.
- Make sure there’s plenty of seating, so no one has to stand while they eat or drink.
If you’re not sure what to serve, ask your guests in advance if they have any dietary restrictions or preferences. That way, you can ensure something for everyone and avoid potential disasters on game day.
Take some time to catch up with each other.
One of the best parts about family gatherings is catching up with relatives you don’t see very often (or at all). So, ensure plenty of time built into your event for everyone to chat and catch up with each other.
You might want to set up a few different areas around your home where people can gather and visit—like by the fireplace in the living room or out on the patio if it’s nice outside.
You could even create name tags with everyone’s names and contact information so that people can easily connect after the event is over (this is especially helpful if there are relatives who live far away). Whatever you do, ensure plenty of opportunities for people to interact with each other throughout the event.
Family gatherings don’t have to be stressful—with a bit of planning, they can be pretty enjoyable! By following these tips, you can ensure that your next family gathering is one everyone will enjoy and remember fondly for years to come.
