From Reunion to Relaxation: Turning Family Gatherings Into Family Getaways

Andrea Reid
Jul 31, 2025
2 min read

I just got back from my family reunion in Montgomery, Alabama, and y’all, my heart (and my plate) are both full! There’s nothing like hugging cousins you haven’t seen in years, swapping stories with the elders, and laughing so hard you nearly cry over those “remember when” moments.

But here’s what hit me somewhere between the dinner line and the fans slapping: we do all this work to come together for reunions… but what if we took that same energy and actually traveled together?

If you’ve ever been in charge of a reunion, you already know it’s basically a mini family trip in disguise: coordinating dates, booking a venue or hotel block, planning meals, figuring out entertainment. So why not take those same skills and stretch them into a vacation everyone will be talking about until the next reunion? Or even make the next reunion a family trip?!

Here’s how to bridge that gap, whether you’re fresh off a family reunion or just ready to get your crew out of town for more than a weekend.

1️⃣ Use the Reunion Energy While It’s Fresh

Coming off a reunion is prime time to pitch a trip. Folks are already in their feelings (and their photo albums), reminiscing about how good it felt to be together. Drop a teaser while the hugs are still warm:

“We should take this show on the road next year. Same laughs, but with a beach view!”

2️⃣ Start Small: Tie It to an Existing Gathering

If the thought of a big international trip feels overwhelming, consider starting with a “destination reunion.” Pick a city with cultural ties (like Montgomery, Selma, or Charleston), a drivable resort, or even a cruise port city. This keeps it familiar but adds the travel element, easing the family into the idea of meeting somewhere new without the planning stress of a 10-day international trek.

3️⃣ Lock in Dates Early (Think Reunion Calendar)

Family reunions usually run on a set schedule: every 1–2 years, same holiday weekend, etc. Use that structure! Choose dates 12–18 months out and treat it just like you would a reunion—this way, folks know when to save PTO, stash away funds, and keep the calendar clear.

4️⃣ Plan for All Ages

Whether it’s Grandma who just wants shade and sweet tea, or your Gen Z nieces and nephews who need Wi-Fi and vibes, make sure your destination offers a mix of downtime, fun, and accessibility. Resorts, cruises, and mid-sized cities with good food and history often strike the right balance.

5️⃣ Delegate Like It’s a Potluck

If you’re reunion-savvy, you already know: teamwork saves sanity. Assign roles: someone to manage lodging, someone to coordinate activities, someone to handle the family t-shirt order. Think of it as your reunion committee… with better scenery!

Final Word:

Coming back from Montgomery reminded me why I love this work: family is everything. And honestly? If we can pull off a reunion with 50+ cousins on a boat in Montgomery, we can definitely pull off a trip with an ocean view.