Family reunion, renting a cabin, sharing expenses question?

Question

I am planning a family reunion next year. I want to rent a cabin. I'm not sure how to split expenses. Per person, per family? I really need some advice on feeding the crowd, probably around 20 to 25. Would you ask everyone to bring something or ask for a certain amount from everyone and buy for all? Some will be on a tighter budget than others, so I need to make it as economical as possible.

I have been to several reunions where you bring a dish or two but never a weekend get-together. What has worked for you?

Answer 1

I would figure out the cost per person, and tack on extra.  That way, in case people drop out, or there is someone that really can't afford it, there will be enough to cover it without relying on someone lese, or even worse, yourself, to foot the bill.  I would also come up with a list of foods that you will need, and ask everyone to sign up for what they can bring.  That way the people that are on a budget can choose the less expensive items, and the people who may have a little extra to spare can pick up the rest.

Answer 2

We had a neighbor cabin involved in a family reunion. They had several cabins, and they came from all over the states. The cooking and cleaning routine was rotated. Activities were casual; some brought a kayak. I don't know how they managed the food expense, but budgeting daily food expense per person would work. Then split the difference, if nec.

Go to a place with plenty of sightseeing ops and shopping, too. We were at Tawas, MI on Lake Huron.

Answer 3

Here's my suggestion:

1.  Ask opinions on the bring vs. buy question for food and see how people feel.

2.  As for the cabin and other things, figure out EARLY what it would cost per person and let everyone know what that would work out to.  Then see how people react.   At the same time, approach the more financially capable ones, and just ask if they would like to underwrite some large chunk, which would bring down the per person cost for everyone.  If that works out, you have a solution that never embarrasses any single person or family.

3.  Are there several choices for cabin rental?  I am thinking of different price and amenity levels.

Good luck!  Nice project!