5 Practical Tips for an Unforgettable Gala

A gala is a formal dinner event, typically hosted by a non-profit organization, that’s put together to entertain its sponsors and possible donors and also to raise funds for the organization and its advocacies.

While it may sound like a no-brainer to plan a gala or a formal dinner since it is just like any other formal event, it actually is stress-inducing as this means you’ll have to be generous and hospitable to the people who will stand with your organization’s mission all under a tight and limited budget.

If you are planning a gala or are thinking about holding one, allow us to help you plan an unforgettable gala in a breeze with these super practical tips:

Be clear about the purpose.

“Why are we holding a gala? Who will be on the guest list?”

Being clear about the purpose of the event is crucial to plan one clearly and successfully. Think of your primary purpose of the event: Is it only for fundraising? Is it for giving back to the donors? Is it for those who are interested to sponsor the organization? Or will it be nice to address all three of these needs for your organization?

Choose a fundraising method.

“How will our organization cover the costs?”

Galas make use of different ways to raise money. Make sure that you agree on the best one for your organization: Will you sell tickets to the event? Will you have an auction or a raffle? What will be a worthy return in exchange for the money that the attendees will spend?

Analyze your costs.

“What are your event’s negotiables and non-negotiables?”

Make a list of your event’s needs and nice-to-haves. Your non-negotiables will definitely be your event’s venue rental fee and food budget, but it’s also nice to have some entertainment and program during this event—a form of generosity towards your organization’s sponsors and would-be donors.

Have a theme.

“What theme will work best within the set budget?”

After analyzing your costs and deciding on a budget, identify a theme that will work within this budget but one that will also be fun and entertaining for everyone who’ll be attending the gala. Coming up with a theme will make it easier for you and your team to decide on the food, giveaways (if any), music, and program.

Get volunteers.

Leading and managing an event won’t be easy. If you have limited manpower, look into your network and ask help from volunteers for little tasks like manning the registration, ushering the guests from the door to their tables, making sure that the seat plan is followed, among other things.

Volunteers will lighten you and your team’s load so you can focus on the bigger tasks that the event requires.

Remember that a gala is a great way to advertise and get support for your organization. However, this doesn’t mean that the event has to be stiff and boring. Make it as fun and memorable as you can while being classy and timeless, too.

An unforgettable gala is’t complete with photographs to remember it by. Message us to lock in your event date!