A client whose programs for the families in their community are important and unavailable from other organizations, wanted to broaden their financial support. The organization is 100% privately funded, has a long history of success and a strong core of supporters, but felt that descriptions of the programs they offer didn’t paint a vivid enough picture of their services to bring new sponsors and patrons to their fold. Wouldn’t it be great, they thought, if we could bring people to our campus for a fun dinner gala, and while guests were enjoying a drink and an hors d’oeuvre we could take them on a tour? And what if, the tour was given by one of the people we help? That way, potential supporters could actually meet someone who would benefit from their monetary donation.
Founded in 1867, the large campus had a natural flow. Valet was positioned on the street in front of the administrative offices. The red carpet led guests through the front door to the registration desk and then out a side door to the sidewalk that would take them through the event space. Greeted by hosts, guests were escorted to a colorful step and repeat for a photograph and then on to a tour of the bungalow that housed projects and information about the organization’s work. There, they heard impactful stories from program beneficiaries about how their lives changed because of the services offered by the organization.
The silent auction was next. Shopping experiences were balanced by looping digital images on a television monitor thanking supporters and providing even more information about the host group. Quiet music and a bar in the adjacent garden added an elegant touch.
The final WOW moment came as the 255 guests entered the dinner tent, constructed in the parking lot at the very end of the campus. The entrance wall had picture windows and the wall facing the campus was clear vinyl so that guests could see the lovely morning glory hedges that serve as the demarcation of the campus. Uplights were placed behind the stage to enhance the colors of the flowers. The stage was placed against this wall providing entrancing photographs of the activities taking place. The entire tent was bathed in soft colors of violet and blue.
Success is measured in many different ways. Financial – did you meet your budgeted financial goal? Guest Experience – did your many guests enjoy their time and will they likely attend next year? Staff workload – did the event producer lesson the burden that events place on staff? Purpose – for this client, did design of the event show guests the value of their support? Did they have a chance to meet the beneficiaries of their generosity? Did they come away from the gala with renewed enthusiasm about the programs and services being offered? The answer to all of these questions was a resounding YES.
Catering: Patina Catering
Rentals: Town and Country Event Rentals & The Korman Group
AV & Lighting: Modern Illumination Productions
Event Production & Auction: Your Great Event