The pinnacle of a week-long event … the parties that tie it all together. Ranging from opening to closing to networking in between, the parties bring us together.
If you do nothing else during your week of #FBW we suggest you design an opening and closing party, with a networking lunch in the middle of the week. Parties can range from a full scale bringing in food, drinks, and entertainment to a simpler open space with an inviting atmosphere.
Finding venues #
Depending on what you want to create determines your direction. If you don’t have a person dedicated to creating each of these events then I’d suggest keeping it simple and finding venues that have a host to help with the experience creation. For instance, a bar or coffee shop may be a great spot for your mid-week networking event.
For your opening and closing parties, I would suggest a larger space, this is great for restaurants with a large private room or an outdoor space (weather permitting). Most restaurants will create a minimal “happy hour” type menu that your attendees can order from to keep the room free.
Your local Chamber of Commerce usually has space, or can help find it, as well as an organizer to put on the entire event in exchange for a “hosting” sponsorship acknowledgment. Another space type that has worked well is a local bank looking to get small businesses set up with checking accounts. They aren’t open in the evening and usually allow small groups in.
Designing a party experience #
A party is only as good as its experience. You may find it helpful to pull in a panel discussion, Ignite talks, or a guided networking program to add purpose for your attendees to attend.
The decision to bring in food, alcohol, and/or drinks is completely up to you. It does add a level of complexity but can also help build camaraderie through eating and having a drink together. In the spirit of inclusion, having sessions that are affordable or free can help bring in freelance business owners that need the most support from their community.
In-Kind Sponsors #
These events are perfect for in-kind sponsorships to provide food, drinks, and even alcohol. Make sure to check on the serving requirements for alcohol with your state and the venue.
Drinks and Alcohol
Ask a local brewery and/or distillery about donating in exchange for photography and social posts promoting their products. they normally ask how many people you are expecting, date, time, and of course location. They decide from there if they will donate and how much. You want to make this request as far out from your event as possible, at least 30 days. You may also have to pick up the product.
Reach out to a local distribution company, their clients (water, soda, beer, specialty drinks) normally give them a percentage of product they can donate. You want to make this request as far out from your event as possible, at least 30 days. You may also have to pick up the product.
Food #
Look out for new restaurants, catering companies, and/or food trucks in your area that need to get their name out and have people try their food. Be prepared with how much you are willing to do in regards to promoting their services, this could make the difference between a full donation and a discount.