One of the nicest things about events is the chance to spoil your favorite supporters with an exceptional experience. A successful event operates on a limited time-frame. Even the most ardent supporter has only so much time and attention to give. A good guest experience, in which your audience feels like their time was valued and well spent, maximizes support for fundraising. Some things that can enhance the guest experience are: unique food, a great cocktail hour, smooth registration and the chance to meet your guest’s expectations throughout a carefully scripted program.
At their first-ever seated dinner and program, North Portland’s KairosPDX brought the house down with an exceptional guest experience, one that gave their Valentine’s Day, education-focused event flair. It wasn’t just one thing that brought the event to a crescendo, but every little thing going off without a hitch throughout the night.
Spread the Love started at Castaway with an easy registration-process, short lines and a space separated from dinner and program for cocktailing. The cocktail hour was filled with treats: unique light-bites, Golden Ticket raffle-sellers bedazzled with balloons and blinky rings to stand out from the crowd, a small art-focused silent auction, school swag sales and plenty of chances to run into old friends.
The night progressed to a seated dinner that started on time and stayed on schedule. Guests were treated to a delicious, multi-course family-style dinner from a local chef collective and a chance to hear the voices of KairosPDX students raised in song. A powerful speech from Executive Director Kali Thorne Ladd led to a festive raffle and live auction filled with chances to engage and connect. Big screens played compelling video stories and a great AV-system ensured everyone could hear and participate. The event arc focused the audience on messaging and fundraising during the dinner hour to maximize attention and engagement.
Ending on time, especially on a Tuesday night, makes a big difference. Even with several program elements, the event wrapped exactly when the crowd was ready for a sweet treat from the dessert bar, hosted by a KairosPDX supporter, and a chance to make a few final connections before heading home.
When you focus on a flawless guest experience, everything else—including your chance to make your fundraising goals—is that much easier.
Photos by Matt H. King
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