A Gala Dinner essentially is a party for a large number of guests. It generally features a meal, whether it is a sit-down or buffet style, entertainment, perhaps an awards section, and a theme.
Read our top 5 tips on how to successfully organise and host a Gala Dinner:
1. Find a space that will suit the total number of guests.
A room too big will leave the space looking sparse and lacking in atmosphere, whereas a room too small can leave the guests feeling packed in.
2. A theme is always a good idea, as it can transform a space.
It may allow the guests to dress up, and it adds another dimension to the evening. However, you do need to be careful when picking the theme. Knowing your audience is the best way to execute this, ask yourself questions like ‘Is it a mix of genders or ages?’, ‘Does their company specialise in a certain area that could become a theme?’ You don’t want to have a theme that is only going to be enjoyed by a small number of guests.
3. Gala Dinners can vary from low costs to very high costs, depending on your requirements.
Therefore one of the most important components to understand is what your budget can get you. You can’t have a champagne event on a beer budget!
4. Hire a production company that are experienced, understand your vision and can meet your needs.
If you are presenting awards you want music that will build the tension as the winners are announced and lighting that will highlight the winners as they arrive on stage. Similarly, you need to make sure the speakers and entertainment aren’t too quiet or too loud.
5. Great Entertainment
Entertainment that everyone will enjoy is important as you don’t want half the room to be having a good time and the other half sitting down watching the clock. Like when choosing a theme, understand who you are entertaining. A lot of Gala Dinners have bands or comedians as they can usually accommodate for all ages and genders. Research the entertainment and see what events they have previously done and the feedback they have received.
If you are looking for help organising your Gala Dinner, contact StagecraftUK on 01952 281 600 or email: info@stagecraftuk.com.
