Family reunion shirts are one of the most fun orders we do. There's something about 50 people in matching shirts at a park that just works — the photos are great, the family pride is real, and the shirts become keepsakes. Here's how to pull it off without the headache.
Design tips for family reunion shirts
- Include the family name: "The Johnson Family Reunion 2025" is the classic formula. Add a location or a family motto if you have one.
- Pick a color that works for everyone: Navy, royal blue, red, and hunter green are all safe choices that look great in photos and work across ages and skin tones. Avoid colors that are unflattering on large groups.
- Keep the design simple: The shirt doesn't need to be elaborate. A clean family name, year, and maybe a graphic or family crest is more than enough.
- Consider a tree graphic: A family tree or tree silhouette is a timeless design element for reunion shirts.
Sizing for all ages
Family reunions are the ultimate multi-generational order. You'll likely need:
- Youth sizes: XS (2-4), S (6-8), M (10-12), L (14-16)
- Adult sizes: S through 3XL or 4XL
- For larger family members: confirm your printer offers 4XL and 5XL
Collect sizes from each family unit through a group chat, email, or shared form. Don't guess — especially on youth sizes, which vary significantly by brand.
The easiest way to collect sizes and money
A team store eliminates the most painful part of organizing a family reunion shirt — chasing people for sizes and payment. Set up the store, share the link in your family group chat, and let everyone order for themselves. Every family member picks their size, pays, and gets their shirt shipped directly or picked up at the reunion.
Read our guide on team store vs bulk order to understand which approach makes more sense for your reunion size.
How many colors to use
Most family reunion shirts work great in 1-2 colors. Keeping the color count low reduces print cost and keeps the design clean. If you're using DTF printing, full color is possible at no extra cost — but simple designs almost always look better anyway.
Timeline
Order at least 3-4 weeks before the reunion. If collecting sizes through a team store, open it 5-6 weeks out to give everyone time to order, then close it 3 weeks before the event to allow for production and shipping. For last-minute orders, ask about rush production — we can turn around DTF orders significantly faster than standard lead times.
💡 One person should own the shirt project — not a committee. Give them a budget, a deadline, and decision-making authority. Shirts designed by committee almost always end up delayed or compromised.
Ready to order your family reunion shirts? Call 855-TSHIRT-5 or request a quote online.