Give your alumnae plenty of time to RSVP! Whatever you do, don't send invites out a week or two before the event. Alumnae appreciate having advance notice for such events so they can attend!
Can you tell one of my pet peeves? Although there are many things I've wanted to do as an alumna, if I don't get enough notice to make arrangements with my family or whatever, I can't go. Once you set the date, start to publicize it through your chapter's website, mailing list, alumnae chapter and even your International Fraternity website or magazine.
Alums expect to make a donation to a chapter project and/or the National organization at this type of event. Trust me, it won't offend us! We also like to hear how we can help--just don't overkill it. You could set up your RSVP sheet to ask for family info (is there a future legacy in the family?), her email address (great way to stay in touch without newsletter and mailing expenses), and anything else your chapter would want to know. If there's a specific area you want help with put that on your RSVP form. I just received an invitation to a chapter's 10th anniversary weekend, and they had a separate line where an alum could make an additional donation on behalf of the chapter. I just thought that was a brilliant idea! Make sure to share any info gathered with your local alumnae chapter, too!
Alumnae members love to hear about what's going on with the current chapter, things you've won and what you've done (alums always like trophies and plaques
), and what you've got planned for the future. We also like to have time to sit down and talk with the current members in an informal setting.
Good luck!
Christin