Tips From a Pro: Planning a Reunion in Memphis
Kids love the flight simulator, wind tunnel and hot air balloon at the Children's Museum of Memphis. Photo by Andrea Zucker.
Elvis Presley on the grounds of Graceland.
Horseback riding at Shelby Farms Park
Family Fun at the Memphis Zoo. Image by The Commercial Appeal
Stax Museum is the former home of Stax Records, Isaac Hayes, Otis Redding and more. Photo by Dan Ball.
Memphis is a great destination for your next family reunion.
Putting together a family reunion is no small task. Coordinating event space, activities, tours, food and more is like being a professional juggler and party planner, both at the same time.
Meet Holly Townsend, she specializes in Memphis reunions big and small for Memphis Tourism. We sat down with Holly to talk a little bit about planning a family reunion in Memphis and how she can help.
So, why Memphis for a family reunion?
Memphis is a true family-friendly city that has created memories for multiple generations. From our music and heritage to our history and attractions, we're a one-of-a-kind city that you really can't find anywhere else. Memphis is affordable, has great food and restaurants (hint: try the BBQ), unique hotels and an amazing culture. Shall I go on?
How can you help folks plan their next family reunion in Memphis?
My role is to make the family reunion planning process easy for reunion and tour planners, especially those who don't reside in, but have a family connection to Memphis. I can help with reserving large blocks of hotel rooms, locating a caterer, finding banquet facilities, setting up tours and much more. Truthfully, I've even assisted with planning reunions that don't have ties to Memphis, but want their family members to experience the history, culture and heritage of the South.
I'm here to help people avoid common planning pitfalls so they can actually enjoy their reunion.
What are some of the more interesting family reunion activities you've seen?
Families love to go to the Memphis Zoo, National Civil Rights Museum or any of our music attractions like Stax Museum of American Soul Music or Graceland. Even if they're just hanging out in a park or near the Mississippi River, I've seen families plan fun, simple games or have prize giveaways to get the crowd involved.
Memphis has over 60 great attractions, so packing everything in is often the most difficult part.
How can people get more information about planning their next reunion?
A great way to start planning is by downloading our planning guide. You can certainly email me to get started or check out our website for ideas on itineraries and things to do in Memphis.
I typically recommend that people start the planning process 6-9 months before the actual reunion date. I'll help you work with hotels on making sure they meet your needs and fit your objectives. Many people don't know that hotels will often bid on your business, resulting in a better deal for the family reunion.
