Every August, Minnesotans gather at the State Fair — lovingly called The Great Minnesota Get-Together — for cheese curds, butter sculptures, and memories with family. The Fair is about fun, but it’s also about tradition, planning, and making the most of your time. Estate planning works the same way. With a little preparation, you can make sure your family’s experience — not just for a day at the Fair, but for generations — is full, meaningful, and free of unnecessary chaos.
- Everyone Has a Different Route
At the Fair, some people head straight for the cheese curds, others start with the livestock barns, and some just wander until something catches their eye. My mom and I have our own “route” we’ve fine-tuned over the years, certain booths we never miss and certain foods we always share.
In estate planning, your route depends on your priorities, too. Some want to make sure their family cabin stays in the family. Others want to leave charitable gifts. Some need to plan for a family member with special needs. Your plan should reflect your goals, not anyone else’s.
- The Best Days Are Well-Planned
Sure, you can just show up to the Fair without a plan, but you may miss out on something you really wanted to do (or eat). My mom and I have learned that a little planning ahead makes the day smoother and much more enjoyable.
Estate planning is the same way. “Winging it” often means leaving out important protections, which can lead to delays, disputes, or unintended consequences. A thoughtful plan ensures your family gets the full experience – without the chaos.
- There’s Something for Everyone
The Fair has something for all ages — from the Little Farm Hands exhibit to the Grandstand concerts. My mom loves shopping at the International Bazaar, while I can’t leave without eating deep fried Oreos. We each enjoy different things, but we go together because it’s about sharing the experience.
Estate planning works best when it meets the needs of every person it affects. That means making sure minor children are cared for, adult heirs know your wishes, and the right people are in charge when the time comes.
- Keeping Traditions Alive
For us, going to the Minnesota State Fair together isn’t just an activity, it’s a tradition. It’s part of who we are. Estate planning lets you protect the traditions, heirlooms, and values that matter most to your family. Whether that’s passing down a family home, preserving a family recipe, or ensuring future generations can keep visiting the Fair together, your plan can help keep those connections strong.
Final Thought
The State Fair may only last 12 days, but the impact of your estate plan lasts for generations. Just like planning your perfect Fair day, creating a customized estate plan means you – not chance –decide how things go.
The material contained herein is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to create or constitute an attorney-client relationship between Schromen Law, LLC and the reader. The information contained herein is not offered as legal advice and should not be construed as legal advice.