Events: The Benefits of Small Parties
“Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.”
We all know about the big gala. Lots of work, lots of people, and sometimes lots of money raised.
Small parties can be an equally effective strategy to cultivate donors and raise funds, offering a more intimate setting for engagement and relationship building compared to larger events. And they can be far less stressful than the big gala.
Here are just a few benefits of smaller parties. Read on for my tips to create successful small events.
Personal Connection: Fosters deeper, more personal connections between donors and organization leaders/staff.
Targeted Engagement: Allows tailoring conversations and experiences to specific donor interests and capacity.
Building Trust: Provides a comfortable environment for donors to ask questions, share concerns, and learn more about the organization's work.
Increased Loyalty: Strengthens donor commitment and encourages repeat giving by making donors feel valued and appreciated.
Cost-Effective: Can be more budget-friendly to organize compared to large galas or fundraising events.
Tips for Successful Small Parties
Planning and Preparation
Define the Goal: Determine the specific outcome you want to achieve (e.g., introduce a new program, secure a major gift, increase donor engagement).
Identify the Target Audience: Choose donors who are most likely to be interested, engaged, and connected to your work.
Select a Venue: Opt for a location that is intimate, inviting, and relevant to your organization's mission.
Create a Guest List: Keep the number of attendees small enough to allow for meaningful conversations.
Develop an Agenda: Plan the flow of the event, including introductions, presentations, and opportunities for interaction.
Personalize Invitations: Send personalized invitations that convey the importance of each guest's presence.
During the Event
Welcome Guests Personally: Make each guest feel acknowledged and valued upon arrival.
Facilitate Introductions: Help guests connect with each other and with organization leaders.
Share Stories: Use compelling anecdotes and examples to illustrate the impact of your work.
Encourage Dialogue: Create opportunities for guests to ask questions and share their thoughts.
Express Gratitude: Thank guests sincerely for their time and support.
Follow-Up
Send Thank-You Notes: Send personalized thank-you notes within 48 hours of the event.
Continue the Conversation: Reach out to guests individually to follow up on conversations and address any questions.
Provide Updates: Keep guests informed about the organization's progress and impact.
Cultivate Relationships: Stay in touch with guests and nurture the relationships over time.
If you’re already doing a big gala, add a smaller party or two and expand your network of supporters. If you’re just beginning to implement an event strategy, start with a few small parties and grow from there!
