You may like to hold a larger get-together with ladies from other local chapters, or open it up to invite any Hatters. Organising a larger event can be a bit daunting so here are some tips:
- Pick a date that doesn’t conflict with any existing events or any public holidays.
- Choose a venue that has good access to public transport and facilities for those with mobility issues. If serving food, check they can cater for food intolerances.
- Work out your costings and what dates you’ll need to cancel by to get deposits back.
- Be mindful of the cost – not all Hatters have the same budgets (or time)
- Splitting events up and charging for each part separately would allow for Hatters with a limited budget, or those who cannot be away for a whole weekend to attend some parts of the event
- Communicate with other chapter Queens – Letting them know of the event, and if necessary asking for their assistance in running it.
- Give plenty of notice – so everyone has time to prepare.
- Give all the information – Cost, timeframe, dresscode, expectations, who is running it
- Delegation – Make sure it is not just the Queen running it. Form an event planning committee and set tasks for everyone to help organise and run the event.
- Use your members expertise. If you have members who are creative, set them to work on decorating. If you have members who are good at talking to people they can look after bookings and so on.
- Pacing – not all Hatters can cope with a lot of activity or a long event. You may need to schedule a rest time between morning and evening events
- Give yourself plenty of time to organise it
- Consider the Public Liability Insurance issue, and if necessary choose venues that have their own insurance cover.
- Borrow decorations from other Chapters, members or even your local theatre group or school to avoid buying them.
- Themed events can be fun, but be mindful of how easily members may be able to find/make outfits to go with the theme. Try to pick an easy theme and perhaps offer some suggestions to get the creative juices flowing.
- If making “showbags” or goodie bags for the attendees, make sure you plan this in advance so you can grab some bargains to keep your costs low. Make sure you check $2 shops, art supply shops and online stores like ebay for cheap supplies.