In this post, we will compare different types of events to help you decipher which type would be best for what your organization is trying to accomplish.
Gala/Sit-Down Dinner
​​A gala is a large party that includes a sit down dinner and sometimes entertainment or an auction. A gala is a good option for your organization if you plan to have 300+ guests attend. Galas are known for the tremendous amount of awareness they generate and are a great way to communicate your message to a large audience. Galas could be the event type of choice when you are looking to raise significant funds. Organizations often price gala tickets high and donate the proceeds to their charity’s funds. In order to hold a gala, your organization will have to have a strong corporate and/or celebrity report. It is also a good event type option if you have someone that you would like to honor.
Cocktail Reception
Cocktail receptions are a great type of event to consider if your organization is looking to raise funds through sponsorship, high quality auctions, ticket sales, journal advertisements, etc. A cocktail party has a great awareness component, however, not as much as a gala. Cocktail receptions are generally geared more toward a younger age group than a gala (25-50).
Golf Tournament or Outdoor Event
Golf tournaments and outdoor events are a great option for your organization if you are trying to accomplish team building, board development, a way to cultivate membership (if you are a membership organization), etc.
Golf tournaments and outdoor events rely heavily on corporate and individual support. Often golf tournaments and outdoor events are followed by a dinner at the club, which is then a great opportunity to sell raffles or have your guests bid on auction items.
The important thing to realize about golf tournaments is that they are not tremendous money makers. Therefore, the potential pitfall is that your expenses are so significant, that they may not be higher than your ROI.
Auction
While most events that we do, do incorporate an auction component, it may be a good option for your organization to individually hold an online auction. Hosting a specialty auction through the year is a great way to raise funds year-round.
Bottom Line
What works best for you may depend not just on fundraising needs but also other factors such as awareness, board development, etc.
We hope that this post will provide your organization with some guidance and lead you in the right direction!