If you are responsible for the family reunion this year, you are probably concerned about forgetting something. Staying organized is key to any successful event and the family reunion is no different. There are categories to consider when compiling your list that will assure you of success and hopefully, a day of fun.

Decorations
Consider your theme. Does your family like a common tee shirt for your events? If so, start planning early. All the decorations need to take the environment into consideration. Balloons, streamers, banners with the family name and all others are all good and should be worked into the decor.

Paper Products and Serving Utensils
The most common area forgotten is all the serving spoons, cutting knives and other peripheral utensils. Along with that you need all the paper products (if you are having anything saucy, consider wax covered paper). Buy more than you think you need. You can never have too many paper products.

Beverages
Not everyone likes soda and beer. Make sure you have some variety including water and diet sodas. Also make sure you have enough coolers for all the beverages and the ice you will need to pack it in for the family reunion.

Meats
If you are grilling (don’t forget the charcoal and lighter fluid!), hamburgers, hotdogs, chicken and sausage are easy and can be thrown on a grill and cooked in limited time. You know what your family likes so be creative but don’t make it so complicated that you spend the whole day cooking something exotic.

Salads
Make sure you have coolers to keep the salads in, especially those made of mayonnaise. The last thing you need at your family reunion is everyone getting sick. Don’t make too much, salads tend to be the one item that you have the most leftover.

Munchies
You know what these are and you know they will be eaten. Potato chips, pretzels, ice cream, cakes, cookies and all those desserts that everyone tends to eat too much of at these events. Make sure you get a variety and remember, not everyone likes unhealthy snacks so some fruit and other healthy snacks should be considered as well.

If you go into the store armed with this list, you will be well on your way to a successful event. There are certainly some items that you might want to add, but this will get you started and keep you focused as you go through your shopping chore.