Ten weeks is tight for a gala of 250. It is possible with a clear plan and a committee that makes decisions quickly.
Weeks 1–2: venue and date
We secured a hotel ballroom on a Thursday, which saved nearly a third against Saturday pricing.
Weeks 3–6: sponsors and auction
- Sponsorship packages at three levels
- Silent auction items collected by a single volunteer lead
- Online ticketing with table bookings
Weeks 7–10: the run sheet
Every speech timed, every auction lot numbered, and a crew briefing the afternoon before. The night raised 40% more than the previous year.