Again, the fundamental rule regarding expenses is to keep them to a minimum without compromising your event. Try to get everything donated that you can.

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Typical expenses incurred hosting a casino event:

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– Facility costs

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– Decorations and props (check out Shindigz and party rental stores)

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– Entertainment

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– Beverage costs

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– Food costs

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– Insurance

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– Security and Valet Parking

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– Clean Up

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All the points addressed below carry the same caveat: “without compromising your event.”

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Facility Costs:

Invariably, a free facility would be great. Attempt to secure a facility at little or no cost to your event. There are generally several organizations that are open to making their facility available at little or no charge. For smaller events, many restaurants will provide the facility at no charge if you are buying dinner for each guest. A new car dealer may donate the use of their showroom. Think outside the box.

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Decorations and Props:

Again, check out Shindigz.

Often balloons and streamers will suffice when decorating the event facility. Always weigh up the cost of any props you are considering using. People are typically not at your event for the decorations. Solicit donations if possible, however prioritize a table sponsorship donation ahead of a prop donation almost every time.

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Entertainment:

Do not let the guests feel like they are being short changed here. We offer a large assortment of great entertainment. We have casino parties, Poker nights/tournaments, DJs, Bands, Dinner Shows, Trivia Nights, Game Shows, Tribute Artists, Bingo, comedy, Hypnotists, Magicians, and much more. Just inquire! Make it a fun night and it will become bigger and better each year.

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Beverage Costs:

Arrange with your beverage supplier an agreement allowing you to return all unopened bottles, this way you only have to pay for the beverages sold. Don’t forget to have cold water available.

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Insurance:

Some facilities may require a one-night insurance coverage policy for your event, especially if you are not being charged for the venue.

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Security and Valet Parking:

Security and parking will vary with different locations.

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Here is another idea:

The goal is to have a jewelry store to donate jewelry (both real and fake) without the guests knowing which is which. Encourage them to visit the jewelry store to find out. I’ve seen clients sell 100 envelops, in 10 of them there are keys, and they line up at the end of event. Only one of the keys will open the lock box that displays the diamond necklace, or cash, or what ever “teaser” prize you have (there is usually something small in all the envelops so everyone gets at least something). If you want a copy of the Oklahoma Charitable Lottery Act, I can get it for you.

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Do not sell anything too cheap. Many of your guests are there to help support your organization and don’t mind the prices. Let the bargain hunters go to flea markets and garage sales.

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Other Fundraising Ideas:

It has become my passion, maybe even a ministry, to help deserving charities get the money they need. I have lots of other ideas on fundraising. A party or gala is not right for every group. I read a lot about different ways charities can raise money. A raffle is hard to beat, you don’t need an event, there are many opportunities for donated prizes, and it’s hard to lose money on a 50/50 raffle. A lot of youth sports teams offer their players a choice, sell so many raffle tickets or pay a certain amount of money for the season. There are a lot of good ideas onPinterest and  Rewarding Fundraising Ideas. You can also simply Google “charity fundraising”.

 

You can always give me a call and I’ll give you some free advice. I promise it will be worth the price. FREE.