One of my committee members has just suggested that we cancel the family reunion this year and I am going to have to let her know that it is not an option.

I'm all for considering cheaper alternatives rather than cancelling an event altogether. That's what I'm trying to tell the people I'm planning our reunion with.

It's not like we have to have champagne and caviar. Instead of a full dinner, we can have hors d'ouvres. Instead of an open bar, let just have beer and wine. If that's too much we can just drink soda pops. Instead of an evening banquet, lets have an afternoon luncheon.

I will suggest cheaper alternatives but the hard part will be convincing the other committee members.