LLG Events | Kiss Me for Eternity | David Kimmel Design | Top Tier Event Rentals | Hotel Crescent Court
When it comes to nonprofit organizations, fundraising is crucial. It’s also a great way to raise money and show appreciation for your donors! If you’re an event planner or the head of a nonprofit looking to plan an event, check out our tips below for putting together the perfect experience for your guests.
Craft a Cohesive Theme
Mateo & Co. | | Herbivore Floral Designs | Fancy Faces Inc. | Mardi Gras Productions Inc. Firefly Ambiance | Hilton New Orleans Riverside
Any great fundraiser starts with a well thought out theme! A simple idea for a theme is to highlight the nonprofit’s cause so your guests will understand exactly what they’re supporting by attending. Another way to create a beautifully cohesive theme is to utilize the colors or logo throughout the event. With hundreds of linen choices, BBJ La Tavola can easily match any organization’s brand colors. Host a black-tie event or masquerade ball to really show your appreciation.
Find a Venue
Frank Event Design | Rick Aguilar Studios | Anthony Gowder Designs | Marquee Rentals | The Drake Hotel
The right venue for your fundraising event can be critical for managing expectations. The best venue will be one that best fits your organizational culture, budget, and chosen theme. If your organization, employees, and donors have a more laid-back approach, then a hotel or a restaurant may be the better venue choice for your group. If you’re looking to throw a larger, fancier event, then a banquet hall or other elegant space is your best bet.
Beautify your Event
Frank Event Design | Rick Aguilar Studios | Anthony Gowder Designs | Marquee Rentals | The Drake Hotel
To honor your guests and their generosity, spend time and resources on the smaller details. Design detailed tablespaces with upgraded linen. A great way to cater to all your guests is with a multiple course plated dinner with special dessert options. Elevate your event by alternating your chosen colors throughout your table linens, napkins, chargers, chair décor, and more. You can even craft your centerpieces so that they match the event theme and your nonprofit. It’s important to have some fun and decorate your tables and chairs based on your selected theme and venue space!
Entertain Your Guests
Consider it Done | Bam Events | Saphire Event Group – Avenir
Never underestimate the power of entertainment! Entertaining your guests can come in many different formats and can help your organization draw in more funding and support. Consider hosting a raffle, planning a silent auction, having games, and including a live band. You can also consider hosting a champagne toast, as well as setting up a table for outright donations. The better the time guests have, the more likely they are to contribute to the cause.
Plan Favors and Follow-Ups
CocoKuna Events | Gabriel Rosario Photography
Finally, everyone loves gifts! make sure It’s important to include something your guest can take home so that they remember how great the event was. Whether it’s a small box of candies, a paperweight, or something central to the nonprofit, any reminder of the organization is a good way to help your guests memorialize your wonderful event.
A week or two after the event, follow up with guests and thank them for coming. This creates a good rapport and reminds guests how much you appreciated their presence.
What are some of your best tips for planning a fundraiser event?
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