Galas are some of the best ways to not only raise money for your cause but also to build relationships with your community. Galas are great fundraisers for a variety of reasons, but the main ones are interaction with people and donors in person, building trust with supporters, and motivating donors to keep supporting the cause. From choosing an event center in Edinburg, TX to picking a theme, use these tips to make sure your gala is a successful fundraising event.  

Review Your Goals – There’s no use planning a gala if it won’t help you and your organization achieve what you need it to. Go over your goals, objectives and budget for your organization and gala to see if they meet up and it makes sense for you to have a gala in the first place.

  
Choose a Theme – Themes always make a party better, but for galas they are even more important as they can help narrow your focus and streamline your planning. Once you choose a theme for your gala you can better pick out a venue, food, decorations and more.  

What do People Want? – You need to make sure that your gala has aspects that will draw in attendees and supporters, so think about what people want out of a party. Maybe an expert speaker, popular band or performer, or a celebrity appearance? Make your event stand out.  

Choose a Venue – The venue is one of the biggest costs of any event, including a gala. Plus, the venue has a big impact on theme, number of attendees, layout, and other serious considerations. When choosing a venue be sure to think about if it is the right size, has a kitchen that fits your needs, has necessary Wi-Fi and A/V equipment, is the right atmosphere, and is easily accessible for all attendees.  

Come Up with a Goal – Come up with a specific dollar amount you want to raise at the gala. This will help you focus your planning and streamline your fundraising. Once you have a goal, you can come up with ideas to help you reach it like ticket sales, donations, auctions and crowdfunding.  

Market, Market, Market – Your gala won’t be a success if no one shows up, and no one will show up unless people know it’s happening. That’s where marketing comes in. Send out email blasts or use social media, content marketing, and traditional advertising like mailers and postcards to get the word out about your gala. The more people hear and see about your event, the more likely they are to come. 

It’s All About Relationships – While raising money is key for a successful gala, it’s even more important to cultivate relationships. Use the gala to nurture existing supporter relationships and encourage new ones in order to create long-lasting supporters for your cause. Meet people in person when they arrive at the gala and check in with them throughout the event.  

Memorial Event Center is an Edinburg, TX event center that can help with all of your event needs. Call today to learn more.