When organizations say galas are “too much work” or “low ROI,” it’s often a sign they’re stuck repeating the same format year after year. In this post, Shannon shares innovative ideas and real-world inspiration to help nonprofits reimagine the gala experience and bring donors back energized and engaged.
How bold event design can reignite donor excitement and ROI
As we’re watching conversations unfold on social media from fundraising professionals, there’s a frequent theme surfacing on galas: organizations are saying “NO”.
The reasons vary from too much work, low ROI, and donor fatigue. As Fundraising professionals, we need to help change that perspective because galas are alive and well. They’re just evolving.
When organizations say galas are too much work, it’s often because they aren’t supported by the right team. When they say the ROI is low, it’s usually because the fundraising strategy hasn’t evolved alongside the event itself. And sometimes, they’re simply tired of hosting the same event the same way for the tenth year in a row.
So instead of abandoning galas, let’s give them something better. Some fun, fresh, and exciting options!
Before We Change the Event, Let’s Clarify the Goal
Before suggesting new ideas, it’s important to understand what organizations are actually trying to replace.
Many traditional galas follow a familiar formula: a long sit-down dinner, multiple speeches and awards, followed by hours of programming and entertainment. While this format can be effective, it doesn’t work for everyone, and it doesn’t always align with what today’s donors want.
Two key questions should guide the redesign of any event:
1) What’s the goal for the event? Often, the answer is simply raise as much money as possible. But it may be something else.
2) How do they want their guests to feel?
Common responses include:
- Inspired
- Energized
- Connected to the mission
- Like they experienced something truly different
- Like they were part of something special
Oh, and almost always, they want a wow factor.
So how do we deliver that?
Three Areas That Shape a Memorable Gala
To create something fresh without sacrificing fundraising results, focus on three core components of the evening:
- The Experience
- The Atmosphere
- The Dining Concept
Let’s explore how to thoughtfully put a twist on each one.
Reimagining the Experience
While statistics often show that sit-down dinners raise more money, that doesn’t mean the experience has to feel predictable. Creativity and fundraising can absolutely coexist.
Immersive VR and AR Experiences
Interactive digital art and immersive technology are reshaping how people engage with storytelling. Instead of simply watching or listening, guests become part of the experience. Think of exhibits like Immersive Van Gogh, where art surrounds the audience and creates emotional impact.
Projection Art and Interactive Walls
A projection graffiti wall allows guests to create art together on a large digital canvas while reinforcing the organization’s mission. These installations encourage engagement, spark conversation, and serve as both entertainment and décor. For first timers at an event, it brings the donor in and provides an opportunity to learn more about the mission, then use that education to act on it…creatively!
We’ve also seen projection walls replace traditional pipe and drape, transforming event spaces entirely. At one gala themed around The Thomas Crown Affair, projected artwork instantly transported guests into a museum-like setting. The feedback was exceptional and unforgettable. Think outside the box and get that WOW factor.
Interactive Performances
Live, interactive theater or interpretive performances can be incredibly powerful, especially for mission-driven storytelling. Have actors mingle in the crowd that are themed, or create a storyline that guests can join. At one event supporting children affected by sex trafficking, an incredibly heavy topic to talk about, the children performed an interpretive dance, which allowed their voices to be heard without words. You could have heard a pin drop. The emotional impact was undeniable, and so were the fundraising results.
Designing an Atmosphere That Sets the Tone
Thoughtfully designed environments help guests emotionally transition from their everyday lives into the mission of the evening.
Some concepts to consider:
- Secret Garden themes with twinkling lights and natural elements that transport guests into an enchanted space
- Monochromatic design using a single color theme (or the organization’s brand color) for a clean, elevated, and sophisticated look
Themes are an opportunity to be bold and innovative. When done well, they enhance storytelling rather than distract from it.
Rethinking the Dining Experience
Dining doesn’t have to mean a traditional plated meal at assigned tables.
Culinary Experiences That Engage
- Celebrity chef demonstrations that create exclusivity and boost ticket sales
- Interactive stations like build-your-own sundaes, cupcake bars, or hot chocolate stations encourage movement and conversation.
Progressive Dining Concepts
Move guests through different spaces or stations for each course. This adds energy, entertainment, and natural networking opportunities.
Community Partnerships
Invite local restaurants or food trucks to showcase their cuisine. Guests can vote for favorites, and awards can be announced during the program. These partnerships often result in donated or discounted food while spotlighting local businesses.
Smaller Can Be Better
Don’t be afraid to scale down. In fact, we dive deeper into this approach in our blog, The Power of Boutique Fundraising.
Smaller guest counts often allow for more creativity, personalization, and deeper engagement, which can lead to stronger fundraising outcomes. As event planner Chasley Bradbury of Cosmopolitan Events puts it:
“When the guest count shrinks, creativity can expand. There’s more space to curate, personalize, and provide a transformational experience.”
We’re also seeing event timelines get shorter and more focused, with a concentrated emphasis on mission and engagement. We’re happy to provide a sample timeline template.
Final Thoughts…
Your clients aren’t saying “no” to galas. They’re saying no to sameness.
With thoughtful design, the right team, and a willingness to innovate, galas can remain one of the most powerful fundraising tools an organization has.
If you’re looking for fresh ideas, new formats, or a different way to engage your donors, Everything Gala is here to help. The best place to start is a simple introductory call to start the conversation and explore what could work best for your organization.
written by…
Shannon Eason
CEO of Everything Gala &
International Auctioneer Champion
Shannon Eason, Founder and CEO of Everything Gala, is a dynamic and engaging force in the world of fundraising. As an International Auctioneer Champion, she’s mastered the art of captivating audiences—blending charisma, energy, and strategy to inspire generosity and help organizations crush their fundraising goals. A recognized expert in the field, Shannon has presented at workshops, seminars, and conferences from coast to coast, sharing her insights and passion for elevating fundraising events. Through Everything Gala, she partners with nonprofits, schools, and socially driven causes to turn purpose into powerful results.
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