Reunions can be intimidating for obvious reasons: No one wants to look like they’ve completely fallen apart since their last meeting. But you can keep a balance between an unhealthy obsession with your looks and a desire to go in feeling confident and looking your best. Here’s a simple checklist:

1)     Take a long look at that hairstyle
If you’ve been rockin’ the same ‘do for a few years now, it may be time to mix things up. If you’ve been rockin’ the same ‘do since high school … well … you may be in for a long night of “You look JUST like I remember you!” comments.

Take a few minutes to check out the new styles online, or make an appointment with your stylist. Whether you’re looking for an entirely new ‘do or even a contemporary update, you may just find something makes you look and feel younger.

2)     Do the same with your makeup
Do you know what the current styles in makeup are? If not, a little research might be in order. Again, you don’t have to go overboard, but checking out the latest fashion rags or visiting a makeup artist may clue you in to some fresh new ways to doll yourself up.

3)     Slim down a little
This, of course, is dangerous territory. Too much of a focus on your weight can lead to unrealistic diet plans, overdoing it in the aerobics room or worse. But it is true that dropping a couple pounds can make you look and feel better. Visit your doctor if you need to, get a recommended weight loss plan and go into it with modest goals. And if you happen to drop five or ten pounds extra, all the better.

4)     Splurge for a new outfit or cool accessories
You don’t have to go high fashion or max your credit card to look good. Just give yourself a few weeks to search around for some good deals on a few nice additions to your wardrobe. Talk with the clerks, see what’s hot (and what’s not), and ultimately, find something that looks good and feels comfortable. Or, if already have an outfit that works, spruce it up with a new handbag or pair of shoes.

5)     Treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure
Little details can have a big impact, and this is another way to feel great as you stride through that door into the reunion.

Suppose a classmate called you and said “Hey, we’re having a class reunion next month. See you there!” Could you attend? For many classmates - even those who still live in the same town where the reunion is held - the answer may be a resounding no.

Let’s consider the variables in play: If you don’t want weather to put a damper on things, spring or summer are the most logical times to host a reunion. But those times of year are also natural choices for those planning vacations or weddings.

With vacations, ticket and lodging reservations often have to be made well in advance, without guarantee of getting a full refund in case of cancellation. And weddings often require months of advance notice as well, even if it’s not your own. We’ve all had those years where friend and family nuptials were happening seemingly every other weekend.

Oftentimes classmates with families have their children involved with summer sports or other activities. Some employees may not have any vacation days left in the year. The possible scheduling conflicts could be endless. Add in the logistics of arranging travel, lodging and budgeting expenses, and one thing quickly becomes clear: If you want people to show up, you have to give them time to plan ahead.

So what’s the magic number? We recommend 18-24 months notice. This may not seem ideal if your 10-year reunion is only 8 or 9 months away, but you’ll get a lot more kudos if your 11- or 12-year reunion rocks the house than if you’re bound and determined to hit that classic 10-year date, and wind up with a sparsely attended event.