Today I want to take you back a few years to two distinct galas that could have killed their gala guests stumbling over dollars to save dimes.
Both were on the west coast. Both knew someone who wanted to break into the catering business. Both said YES to the MESS! Here is yet another way you can get your money’s worth when you hire “free”.
Scenario A: Friend of board member has a favorite recipe that will feed a crowd. Client pays for food, she’ll prepare for free and get referrals and launch her catering business.
Reality A: Friend is overwhelmed, overcooks chicken till dry, saves the day by dousing with peanut sauce.
Outcome A: Firetrucks and ambulances arrive during the live auction to remove 4 people.
Dee Dee: Unaware of what is happening outside the window, keeps selling and raises record funds.
Overall Grade: F
Teacher’s Comments: The money doesn’t matter if you jeopardize safety. A win is a checkmark in all boxes using the Six Figure Fundraising Framework ®.
Scenario B: Friend of a friend is a new caterer. She will cook at venue. This chicken will be “cheep cheep”.
Reality B: Overcooked first batch, sent someone to store to buy more, Now behind schedule two hours. Client insists we do fundraising after dinner.
Outcome B: Guests eat all snacks and drink all the wine, some are hangry. Others leave with their wallets
Dee Dee: Tells jokes, mingles with crowd, tap dances and pulls rabbit out of hat. Raises record money.
Overall Grade: F
Teacher’s Comments: ROI = A; ROE = F, Bad Experiences go into long term memory. The money is secondary to enrolling lifetime donors. Monetize your Minutes® for the greatest results every time.
Lesson: Caterers need professional training, insurances and experience…just like your AUCTIONEER should!
Let’s talk about YOUR next big resource development win.
Menu
