Last spring, I watched a recruitment chair frantically scroll through her phone trying to craft the perfect bid day reminder text. Her new members were scattered across campus, unsure about outfit requirements and photo locations. That chaotic morning taught me something crucial: successful Greek life events depend on crystal-clear communication.
Last spring, I watched a recruitment chair frantically scroll through her phone trying to craft the perfect bid day reminder text. Her new members were scattered across campus, unsure about outfit requirements and photo locations. That chaotic morning taught me something crucial: successful Greek life events depend on crystal-clear communication.
According to the National Panhellenic Conference, over 400,000 undergraduate women participate in sorority life annually. Each bid day represents months of planning condensed into hours of celebration. The difference between memorable and stressful often comes down to how well coordinators communicate logistics.
These 75+ text message templates will transform your bid day coordination. From outfit reminders to emergency protocols, you'll have every scenario covered. Your new members deserve seamless communication that lets them focus on celebrating their Greek life journey.
Bid Day Outfit and Dress Code Reminder Texts
Outfit coordination sets the visual tone for your entire bid day celebration and helps new members feel confident and prepared.
Bid day outfit reminders should include specific dress code guidelines, weather contingencies, and comfort considerations for day-long celebrations.
- Hey [Name]! Bid day outfit reminder: Wear our chapter colors (navy & gold) with comfortable walking shoes. Weather looks sunny, so bring sunglasses and a light jacket for evening photos. Can't wait to celebrate with you! 🎉
- Bid day is tomorrow! Dress code: Business casual in chapter colors. Avoid heels - we'll be walking between multiple photo locations. Backup indoor outfit recommended due to possible rain. Questions? Text me back!
- Final outfit reminder for bid day: Comfortable jeans, chapter t-shirt, and sneakers. Bring a sweatshirt for evening activities. Hair ties recommended for photo booth fun. You're going to look amazing! ✨
- Bid day weather update: 75°F and sunny! Perfect for your planned outfit. Don't forget sunscreen and a water bottle. Backup location is the student center if conditions change. See you at 10am sharp!
- Emergency outfit help available! If you need chapter gear or have wardrobe questions, meet Sarah at the house 30 minutes early. We've got extra shirts and accessories. No stress - we'll make sure you're picture-perfect!
Tip: Consider recommending comfortable athletic shoes or supportive sandals for extended walking during bid day activities.
Photo Booth and Activity Location Updates
Real-time location updates keep your bid day running smoothly and ensure no one misses the memorable moments.
Photo booth location messages should include GPS coordinates, clear landmarks, and alternative plans for weather or capacity issues.
- Photo booth update! We're now at the campus quad near the fountain (GPS: 40.7128, -74.0060). Look for the pink balloon arch. Photos until 2pm, then moving to the library steps. #BidDay2024
- Location change alert: Photo booth moved indoors to Student Union Room 201 due to wind. Follow signs from main entrance. Professional photographer ready and waiting! No worries about hair or makeup.
- Next photo stop: Sorority Row at the chapter house steps! 15-minute walk from current location. Group photos start at 3pm. Bring your bid day signs and biggest smiles! 📸
- Crowd control update: Popular photo spot has a 10-minute wait. Alternative backdrop available at the rose garden (2 blocks east). Both locations have identical lighting and props. Your choice!
- Final photo opportunity: Sunset shots at the bell tower starting at 6:30pm. Meet at the base for group arrangements. This is our Instagram-worthy golden hour moment! Don't miss it.
New Member Orientation Invitation and Details
Orientation invitations establish the importance of attendance while providing comprehensive logistics for new member success.
New member orientation invitations should clearly communicate expectations, required materials, and preparation instructions for incoming members.
- Congratulations again! New member orientation is this Saturday, 2-5pm in the chapter house main room. Bring a notebook, pen, and your signed forms packet. Light refreshments provided. Can't wait to officially welcome you!
- Orientation reminder: Tomorrow at 2pm sharp! Please arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. Bring your student ID, emergency contact form, and any questions you've written down. Dress comfortably - we'll be sitting for presentations.
- New member orientation agenda preview: Chapter history, expectations overview, mentor introductions, and Q&A session. Plan for 3 hours. Parking available in Lot C with your temporary permit (attached). See you Saturday!
- Special accommodation needed for orientation? Please text back by Thursday so we can arrange seating, materials, or dietary considerations. We want every new member to feel comfortable and included from day one.
- Orientation prep: Review the new member handbook (pages 1-15) before Saturday. We'll discuss key points and answer questions. Bring any forms your parents need to sign - we'll explain everything together.
Emergency Communication and Safety Updates
Emergency protocols ensure every bid day participant knows exactly what to do when unexpected situations arise.
Emergency communication should include clear action steps, designated meeting points, and multiple contact methods for urgent situations.
- Weather alert: Severe thunderstorm warning until 4pm. All outdoor activities moved to Student Union ballroom immediately. Follow chapter officers in neon vests. Stay together and stay safe!
- Medical emergency protocol: If anyone needs medical attention, text this number immediately: [Emergency Contact]. Do not move an injured person. Chapter officers trained in first aid are wearing red armbands.
- Lost member alert: If you become separated from the group, go to our designated meeting point at the campus information desk. Chapter officers check there every 15 minutes. Text your location when you arrive.
- Transportation safety reminder: Designated drivers only! Ride share pickup zone is at the north parking lot. Chapter officers will help coordinate safe rides home. No one drives after celebrating - period.
- Emergency contact info: Campus security (555-0123), Chapter advisor Sarah (555-0456), Recruitment chair Emma (555-0789). Save these numbers now. We're here to help with any situation, big or small.
Parent and Family Communication Updates
Family communication balances celebration updates with practical information about upcoming Greek life commitments and involvement opportunities.
Parent communication should include milestone updates, financial information, and family involvement opportunities while respecting new member privacy.
- Proud parent update: [Daughter's name] had an amazing bid day! She's officially a [Chapter name] member. New member orientation is Saturday - details in the parent packet we'll email tonight. Thank you for supporting her Greek journey!
- Family celebration photos available! Check our private Facebook group '[Chapter] Parents & Families' for today's bid day memories. Password: [BidDay2024]. We'll add more throughout the week.
- New member financial timeline: First payment due October 15th ($250). Payment portal link will be emailed Monday. Questions about payment plans or scholarships? Contact our treasurer at [email]. We're here to help!
- Save the date: Family Weekend is November 10-12! Hotel recommendations and event schedule coming soon. This is a wonderful chance to see your daughter's new sisterhood in action. More details next week.
- Parent question answered: Yes, new members can still participate in other campus activities! Greek life enhances college experience rather than limiting it. We encourage balanced involvement and academic success above all.
Volunteer Coordinator and Staff Updates
Volunteer coordination messages provide clear assignments and updated timelines for efficient bid day event management.
Volunteer coordination should include specific task assignments, location updates, and priority adjustments to maintain smooth event operations.
- Volunteer update: Registration table needs 2 more helpers from 11am-1pm. Meet Jessica at the main entrance for supplies and name tags. Thank you for making bid day special for our new members!
- Supply run needed: We're low on water bottles and sunscreen at the photo booth station. Can someone grab supplies from the chapter house basement? Petty cash available from Emma. Text when complete.
- Timeline adjustment: Photo sessions running 30 minutes behind due to high enthusiasm! Extend your shifts if possible, or text for replacement volunteers. New members are having a blast - great job everyone!
- Setup crew: Breakdown starts at 7pm at all locations. Priority order: photo booth equipment, registration materials, then decorations. Pizza dinner for all volunteers at 8pm in the chapter house kitchen. You've earned it!
- Post-event debrief: Volunteer appreciation meeting tomorrow at 6pm. We'll discuss what worked well and improvements for next year. Your feedback makes our events better every time. Thank you for your dedication!
Tip: Consider providing comfortable folding chairs or portable seating options for volunteers working long shifts during bid day events.
Social Media and Documentation Reminders
Social media coordination balances promotion goals with privacy considerations and university guidelines for Greek life events.
Social media coordination should establish clear hashtags, photo guidelines, and content submission deadlines while respecting privacy preferences.
- Social media reminder: Use #[ChapterName]BidDay2024 and #GreekLife[University] for all posts! Tag our official account @[ChapterHandle] so we can share your amazing moments. Let's trend on campus today!
- Photo permission reminder: Only post photos of people who've given verbal consent. Some new members prefer privacy during their first day. When in doubt, ask first! Respect makes our sisterhood stronger.
- Live streaming schedule: Facebook Live starts at 2pm for the group photo session. Instagram Stories throughout the day. Parents and families can follow along from anywhere! Link in our bio.
- Content submission deadline: Send your best bid day photos to [email] by Sunday night for our newsletter and website. Include names for photo credits. We love showcasing our members' photography skills!
- Social media guidelines: Keep posts positive, appropriate, and aligned with our chapter values. Avoid posting about alcohol or inappropriate behavior. We represent our sisterhood online and in person. Let's make it count!
Follow-up and Next Steps Communication
Follow-up communication provides clear action items and deadlines to maintain new member engagement momentum after bid day excitement.
Next steps communication should outline immediate deadlines, required materials, and upcoming commitments to help new members transition successfully into chapter life.
- Welcome to the sisterhood! Next steps: Pick up your new member packet from the chapter house by Wednesday 5pm. Your big sister assignment and first meeting details are inside. Questions? Text anytime!
- First chapter meeting: This Sunday 7pm in the main room. Dress code is business casual. Bring your new member handbook and a notebook. We'll cover expectations, calendar, and introduce you to everyone officially.
- Payment portal is now active! Log in with your university email to set up your payment plan. First installment due October 15th. Financial aid options available - contact our treasurer with questions. Link: [portal.chapter.edu]
- Big sister reveal: Check your email for your mentor assignment! She'll contact you within 24 hours to arrange your first coffee date. This relationship is special - she's here to guide and support you always.
- New member retreat: Mark your calendars for October 21-22! Location and packing list coming soon. This weekend helps you bond with your pledge class and learn chapter traditions. It's going to be incredible!
Crafting Effective Greek Life Event Communications
Successful Greek life communication requires strategic timing, clear messaging, and consistent follow-through throughout high-energy events like bid day.
The Fraternity Insurance Purchasing Group emphasizes that clear communication protocols reduce liability risks and improve member safety during Greek events. Your messages should always prioritize safety while maintaining the celebratory atmosphere that makes bid day special.
Timing matters more than perfect wording. Send outfit reminders 24 hours before bid day, location updates in real-time, and follow-up information within 48 hours. New members are overwhelmed with excitement and information - your messages need to cut through the noise with essential details.
Keep your tone professional yet enthusiastic. Use exclamation points sparingly but strategically. Include specific details like times, locations, and contact numbers. Always provide backup plans for weather or logistical changes.
Conclusion
These text message templates will transform your bid day coordination from stressful to seamless. Your new members deserve clear communication that lets them focus on celebrating their Greek life journey rather than worrying about logistics.
Customize these messages to match your chapter's personality and specific needs. Test your communication plan before the big day, and designate backup coordinators for each messaging category. Remember to follow U.S. texting laws and include opt-out language where required by your university policies.
Great communication creates great memories. Your attention to these details will make bid day unforgettable for all the right reasons.
How far in advance should I send bid day outfit reminders?
Send initial outfit guidelines 48 hours before bid day, with weather-specific updates 24 hours prior for optimal preparation time.
What information must be included in emergency communication texts?
Include specific action steps, designated meeting points, emergency contact numbers, and clear instructions for different emergency scenarios.
How can I balance social media promotion with new member privacy?
Always obtain verbal consent before posting photos, establish clear hashtag guidelines, and respect members who prefer privacy during events.
When should follow-up communication be sent after bid day?
Send immediate next steps within 24 hours, detailed orientation information within 48 hours, and ongoing support messages weekly.
What backup communication methods should chapters prepare for bid day?
Prepare multiple contact methods including group texts, social media, email chains, and designated in-person coordinators at each location.