Author: Monique Brizz-Walker

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Bridging the Holiday Divide: Celebrating and Supporting Together

For many, the holiday season is synonymous with joy, togetherness, and celebration. It’s a time when people of all ages and backgrounds eagerly participate in festive events hosted by an array of organizations, from community non-profits to corporate entities. These gatherings, infused with a spirit of unity, are cornerstones of the season.

Simultaneously, the holiday period can be a poignant reminder of loneliness and hardship for others. This contrast is particularly striking in vibrant cities like New York, where the fast pace and constant excitement can unintentionally overshadow the struggles of those in need. Frank Sinatra’s iconic line, “I want to wake up in the city that never sleeps,” captures the essence of this bustling metropolis, yet it also hints at the hidden challenges faced by many of its residents.

The good news is that in Brooklyn, my beloved home city, numerous organizations are stepping up to provide comfort and support to those facing tough times, particularly during the holidays.

Spotlight on Community Initiatives

Photo via Canva.com

Brooklyn Community Services (BCS)

BCS tackles systemic poverty through a range of programs. By supporting educational success, leadership development, and stability in housing and employment, they empower various community groups, including those with disabilities and seniors. Their volunteer program is a vital link, connecting residents and businesses with meaningful opportunities to make a real difference in Brooklyn.

Mount Sinai Brooklyn

For over fifty years, Mount Sinai Brooklyn has been a bastion of community health. The commitment of their healthcare professionals extends beyond medical care to holistic community support. Their volunteer program is particularly commendable, engaging people from all walks of life in creating a healing and supportive environment for patients and their families.

For over fifty years, Mount Sinai Brooklyn has been a bastion of community health. The commitment of their healthcare professionals extends beyond medical care to holistic community support. Their volunteer program is particularly commendable, engaging people from all walks of life in creating a healing and supportive environment for patients and their families.

Brooklyn Org (Formerly The Brooklyn Community Foundation)

Brooklyn Org is committed to shaping Brooklyn as a model of equity and justice. Their approach offers multiple pathways for involvement, from membership to volunteering to establishing donor-advised funds. Participating in their programs is a chance to be part of Brooklyn’s evolving and hopeful future.

Parting Words

These organizations represent just a handful of the many groups working tirelessly to bring light to those in need during the holidays. Their dedication is a reflection of the community’s spirit of compassion and generosity.

As we immerse ourselves in holiday festivities, let’s also turn our thoughts to those less fortunate. A helping hand, a listening ear, or a shared blessing can make a world of difference. By uniting in compassion and action, we can ensure a more inclusive and caring holiday season for everyone.

Fondly,

Monique

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Elegant Celebrations: Creating Memorable Holiday Moments

Dear Friends and Colleagues:

As an event planner and avid aficionado of the holiday season, I am delighted to share insights on creating inviting spaces for unforgettable gatherings. Whether it’s a grand holiday party or an intimate dinner, the magic often begins at the dinner table.

My journey in tabletop design has evolved from timeless classics to a blend of deep colors, textures, and classic settings. I am pleased to share how my creativity has evolved with time.

Celebrating The Holidays at Home

Elegant Tabletop Tips

For those with a penchant for traditional settings and seeking fresh ideas for this holiday season, consider these thoughtfully curated tips:

  • Start with a Neutral Base: A classic white or ivory tablecloth sets a versatile stage.
  • Incorporate Luxe Textures: Velvet, linen, and lace add depth and luxury.
  • Embrace Metallic Accents: Gold or silver elements bring a festive sparkle.
  • Incorporate Natural Elements: Fresh flowers and greenery invite nature’s charm indoors.
  • Personalized Touches: Name cards and handwritten menus add a personal feel.
  • Lighting: Warm lighting from candles and fairy lights creates a cozy ambiance.
Image courtesy of Dall-E

Holiday Beverages

The highlight of any holiday celebration is often the toast. While there are many choices, Champagne holds a special place in my heart. Here are a few tips for the perfect Champagne experience:

  • Choosing the Right Champagne: Brut is timeless, while rosé adds sweetness.
  • Serving with Style: Chill to the ideal temperature and serve in elegant flutes.
  • Champagne Cocktails: Consider a Kir Royale or French 75 for a festive twist.
Photo by Subbotina Anna via Shutterstock.com

The Menu

Now, let’s talk about the heart of the gathering – the menu. Here are some simple yet elegant ideas:

  • Entrée: Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken, a universally loved dish, or Stuffed Bell Peppers for a vegetarian delight.
  • Sides: Roasted Root Vegetables for color, Garlic Mashed Potatoes for comfort, and Green Bean Almondine for crunch.
  • Dessert: Chocolate Fondue with fruits and marshmallows, and Mini Pavlovas for a sweet finish.
Photo by Zazarmora on Shutterstock.com

Wine Pairings

  • With Chicken: A light Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
  • With Vegetarian Dish: A Pinot Noir or a refreshing Rosé.
  • For Dessert: Sweet Moscato or a dessert wine like Port.

These dishes are not only delicious but also pair wonderfully with Champagne, ensuring your holiday meal is as memorable as it is flavorful.

luigi giordano via Shutterstock.com

Parting Thoughts

Creating an elegant holiday gathering is all about blending style, simplicity, and a touch of personal flair. I hope these ideas inspire you to create your own festive and unforgettable holiday experience. Cheers to a season filled with warmth, elegance, and joy!

Fondly,

Monique

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Women Whose Voices Amplify Philanthropy

Dear Friends,

With all that is going on in our world, I wanted to share this post about women, who I have followed for some time, are using their voices to amplify their views on philanthropy.

This list is not finite for there are so many more stories I plan to share with you. As we continue to navigate the harrowing impact of Covid-19, these acts of generosity remind me how important it is to reach back and support the most vulnerable in our society.

Most important of all, thank you for all that you do to help others. Please stay encouraged!

Sincerely,

Monique

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For You, the Quiet Philanthropists Who Never Pressed Pause

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

I have attempted to write this message on several occasions and each time I felt overwhelmed by the devastating impact of Covid-19 and didn’t quite know what to say.  For what feels like an eternity, we have been navigating what has quickly become our new normal. On Monday, June 8th, New York City’s economy will reopen and we will begin the enormous task of assessing the emotional and financial toll and creating new systems in order to survive.

As a member of the nonprofit community, I have seen first-hand the heroic support, provided by women and men like you – the quiet philanthropists – who showed up day after day to ensure the needs of your constituents and beneficiaries were met. From reaching out to your formal (and informal) networks, to providing food, shelter, clothing, money, housing and transportation, to enlisting vital support from everyone who would listen, you (we) stayed the course; sometimes at the expense of your own organization.

I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the sacrifices made by our small/independent business owners. You have generously supported our essential workers and your colleagues in the non-profit community in numerous ways. From making cash contributions to donating goods and services freely and without being asked.  Regardless of your affiliation, you are the leaders and voices for this moment in history.

Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do.  You are truly a life-force for our local communities, nationally and globally. Please remember, no one is equipped to do this work alone. Continue to enlist the support that you need as you show up for others.

We appreciate you!

Monique Brizz-Walker

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Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events || Envisioning Your Gala

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Welcome to the Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events™ series created to serve as a resource for non-profit leaders looking to host their first special event fundraiser, or reinvigorate a dormant event, but are overwhelmed by the steps involved.  In my previous article I provided insights to consider when Collaborating with Honorees on your signature fundraising event, which can be accessed by following this link.

Today I am pleased to share tips to keep in mind when planning your organization’s first (or reinvigorated) Grand Affair With Lasting Appeal (GALA). Unlike any other event you will host or imagine a GALA conveys a grand vision that has come to life; uniquely designed to create a memorable experience for prospects, donors and stakeholders.

For many attendees your event will be their first introduction to your organization; therefore you are charged with providing an experience that is exciting and informative, elegant and engaging. Whether the dress code is festive wear or business attire, black tie or white tie, your objective is to create an environment that will impress donors enough to convert them from passive observers into active participants.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when planning for your (GALA):

  1. Your GALA’s objectives should be well-defined and have measurable outcomes.  Most important of all, please take the time to gain clarity around why you have asked guests to gather and the message you want to convey.  This is also an opportunity to allow donors and stakeholders to interact with your program’s beneficiaries and see their philanthropy at work.
  2. Your GALA must have the appropriate team to achieve success. Every participant – honorees, gala committee members, emcees, entertainers, designers, staff and volunteers – must be committed to the vision or it simply will not work.
  3. Your GALA’s ticket and table prices must be structured to create a successful outcome. Funds raised will help strengthen working capital and create a new portal of donors who share your organization’s values. Your GALA will help set the stage for future events and your objective is to leave donors clamoring for ways to be involved.
  4. Your GALA’s look and feel should give the impression something special is going to take place.  The venue you choose is critical to achieving this objective.  While your event must feel special and worthy of your guests’ investment; please be mindful as you to not want to produce an event that will come across as wasteful to your target audience.  

High-level events are a great way to raise funds and build relationships but there are many steps involved.  However, with the right strategies you will be able to plan with precision and execute with excellence.

If I can support your efforts, please contact me at Monique@Eventstrategies4success.com.

Here’s to your success!

Monique

#philanthropy #nonprofitleaders #specialevents #specialeventfundraiser #nonprofitevents #galas #fundraisers

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Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events || Collaborating with Corporate Honorees

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Welcome to the Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events™. I created this series to serve as a resource for non-profit leaders looking to host their first special event fundraiser, or reinvigorate a dormant event, but are overwhelmed by the steps involved. 

In my earlier article, I discussed Ways to Involve Donors When Making the Case For Support, which can be accessed via this link.  As you and your team work to implement sustainable fundraising strategies, one of the most rewarding moments is when a corporate chairman or CEO agrees to be honored.

Collaborating with an industry leader who recognizes the importance of strategically positioning your organization in the philanthropic marketplace can greatly impact your fundraising success. As your team prepares to take action, remember that corporate honorees must carefully align your organization’s needs with their broader social responsibility objectives.

Today, I am pleased to share some insights to consider when Collaborating with Honorees on your signature fundraising event. 

1. Corporate honorees have influence but do not have an open checkbook.  The good news is you are working with proven leaders.  Once they have a clear understanding of your needs and commit to the fundraising campaign, you will receive great support.

2. Corporate support may take many forms.  “Do you make it easy for others to support your work? When seeking corporate support, consider offering options like a one-time lead gift to fund a specific program area, a multi-year commitment to launch a new initiative, or a one-time lead gift to support your event paired with a pledge to secure extra funding through their network. Presenting clear and flexible opportunities can help potential corporate partners align their contributions with your organization’s goals.

3. Corporate honorees are careful with their investments.  CEOs take pride in knowing their resources (time, money, key personnel) add value to your organization’s bottom line.  At the same time, they take comfort in knowing your team will take an active role in fundraising efforts. 

4. Corporate communication generally takes place via a member of their executive team. Traditionally, this person will be a senior-level manager designated to help you and update the honoree.  Please honor and work within this structure.

5. Business etiquette goes a long way.  Your organization contact should have great interpersonal skills and be capable of communicate with business leaders with professionalism and tact.  This will help build a lasting relationship long after the event is over.

Additionally to generating essential funds for your organization, high-level events offer an excellent opportunity to strengthen relationships for future collaboration. While the process involves many steps, implementing the right strategies will allow you to plan with precision and execute with excellence.

If I can support your efforts please contact me at Monique@Eventstrategies4success.com.

Here’s to your success!

Fondly,

Monique

#philanthropy #nonprofitleaders #specialevents #specialeventfundraiser #nonprofitevents #galas #fundraisers

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Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events || Ways to Involve Donors When Making the Case for Support

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Welcome to the Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events™ series created to serve as a resource for non-profit leaders looking to host their first special event fundraiser, or reinvigorate a dormant event, but are overwhelmed by the steps involved.  In my previous article, I shared strategies you can use to Create Momentum for Your Event, which can be accessed by following this link.

If you have been looking for unique opportunities to involve your most generous supporters, why not start with your event? Today I will share ways you can Ways to Involve Donors When Making the Case for Support.

1. Ask donors to collaborate. 

For donors with C-suite connections, invite them to help create strategies for soliciting contributions from others within this circle. Their insight can ensure your appeal is best positioned for a positive outcome.

2. Ask donors to lead.

For donors who enjoy the allure of events, and have the time and resources to ensure successful outcomes, invite them to take a leadership role on the fundraising committee. Excited and engaged donors are vital to your success.

3. Ask donors to host.

For donors who have access to networks critical to your organization’s long-term success, but cannot commit to a lengthy fundraising campaign, invite them to sponsor a pre-event activity or host private a reception to provide honorees with a more personal look at your organization.

4. Ask donors to mentor.

For donors who have served as ambassadors, but shy away from formal committees, invite them to mentor key team members and accompany them on in-person visits with prospects and community stakeholders.

When making the case for support, involving donors is key. With proper planning and patience, well-planned events can set the tone for six-or-seven-figure fundraising success.

If I can support your efforts, please contact me at Monique@Eventstrategies4success.com.

Here’s to your success!

Fondly,

Monique

#philanthropy #nonprofitleaders #specialevents #specialeventfundraiser #nonprofitevents #galas #fundraisers

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Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events || Creating Momentum for Your Event

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Welcome to the Positioning Your Organization to Host 7-Figure Events™.  I created this series as a resource for non-profit leaders who are looking to host their first six-or-seven figure fundraiser, or reinvigorate a dormant event, but are overwhelmed by the steps involved.  In my previous post, I shared strategies you can use to help set the stage for a successful event by obtaining buy-in from key stakeholders.

With the members of your inner-circle in place, you can focus on defining your target audience and creating ways to capture their attention before you launch the fundraising campaign. Strategies born our of this plan can also be used to reconnect with beneficiaries and donors – and remind them of your impact on the local, national and global community.

Today I am pleased to share 5 strategies you can use to create excitement with your audience and set the stage for your upcoming event.

1. Share your accomplishments.

Don’t keep your organization’s success stories a secret.  I’m sure your audience would love to hear what you’ve been up to.  Additionally, I encourage you to amplify your message and provide a glimpse of your organization’s “Paid In Full” investment strategy. These updates can be shared on your social media platforms, and via printed newsletters that can be created monthly – or quarterly – depending upon your time and resources.

2. Always educate and inspire.

Expand your message by sharing relevant articles or scholarly works, authored by stakeholders and potential honorees, that demonstrate your ability to partner on broader societal issues. Make the connection between your vision for the upcoming event and how the funds raised will allow for future collaboration.

3. Build an army to expand your reach.

Identify ambassadors and key volunteers and provide them with meaningful roles that align with their strengths and talents. If they are happy with their position, they will promote your event to everyone they meet.

4. Reward your donors by giving them “insider” status.

Many people like to feel as if they have a behind-the-scenes look when something new is about to happen. If you decide to present coveted awards, I’m sure your audience will appreciate knowing about this. Moreover, if this is the first time you have set a six-or-seven figure special event goal, perhaps you can create updates as you pass certain benchmarks. Have you enlisted a star emcee? I’m sure your guests will love to share this excitement.

5. Remember to embrace your staff.

Always find ways to include your staff in social media efforts by encouraging them to post and share event updates within their networks. If you create a sense of inclusiveness from the outset, staff will proudly take ownership and look for ways to be helpful.

Creating momentum does not happen overnight; you will need to embrace many approaches until you find what works. With proper planning and patience, well-planned events can set the tone for six-or-seven-figure fundraising success.

If I can support your efforts, please contact me at Monique@Eventstrategies4succes.com.

Here’s to your success!

1 From the article Paid In Full by Dorian O. Burton and Brian CB Barnes, SSIR, December 5, 2017

#philanthropy #nonprofitleaders #specialevents #specialeventfundraiser #nonprofitevents #galas #fundraisers

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What’s Your Visual Brand?

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Happy Spring!  May your days be filled with sunshine.

After speaking with several business owners who are at various stages of growth, I have greater clarity on how important it is for me to create a visual brand that reflects my company’s identity.  While I am still working on a few final details, I feel much more confident with the direction I have chosen.

Initially I admit feeling overwhelmed, but after doing my homework I found two wonderful resources to guide me; the first came from the pages of Entrepreneur Magazine and the second came from ArtVersion, a creative branding agency with three offices in the United States.

Peter Gasca, author of the article for Entrepreneur Magazine, gives high marks to companies for producing great content; but he also stresses the important role the right images play in getting noticed.  To access the article, please click here.

ArtVersion, a top-tier branding agency known for designing experiences, takes an integrated approach when working with clients who are leaders in their industry.  From what I can see, they leave no stone unturned.  ArtVersion brings a creative, yet strategic, approach to everything they do.  To see their work, please click here.

Lastly, I am a visual person so images are really important to me.  As such, I have created an inspiration board and have included it in today’s post.

If you are creating the visual brand for your company, or working with a client on an upcoming event and need ideas, there are many options to consider.  Most important of all, follow with your heart and trust your instincts.

With kind regards,

Monique

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Elegant NYC Event Venues – Part 1

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

New York City is home to some of the America’s most coveted entertaining spaces.  Recently, I was asked to suggest a few elegant venues by a perspective gala host.  To help her visualize the possibilities, I have created a Pinterest board.  This is an easy (and fun) way to allow for clear visuals and collaboration.

Today I am delighted to share the result with you.

As the title suggests, this is just the beginning.  Please look for future updates!

Monique

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