Dear Friends & Colleagues,
Wishing you a peaceful and joyous Holiday season.
With kind regards,
Monique
Seasons Greetings!
Beyond the Bling: How Tiffany & Co.’s Atrium Program Shines a Light on Social Impact
Important note: The images shown here are artist’s interpretations and not official representations of the brand, and there’s no affiliation or endorsement by the brand.
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
While Tiffany & Co.’s iconic blue boxes and dazzling diamonds often steal the spotlight, another side to the brand that deserves attention is its commitment to social impact and community engagement. Enter Tiffany’s Atrium Program, described as a platform that seeks to create a more diverse and inclusive jewelry industry through commitment, leadership, and learning—all of which are reflected in the program’s three core pillars: creativity, education, and community.’
The inspiration behind the name ‘Atrium’ is particularly meaningful, as the brand explains: it’s ‘inspired by the Return to Tiffany® heart tag necklace—a nod to both the heart as well as the center room around which a house is built’ (Tiffany & Co. Official Website). This multifaceted approach to philanthropy resonates deeply with our values at Event Strategies For Success.
This innovative program goes beyond checkbook philanthropy. Since its inception, Atrium has fostered deep partnerships and provided crucial funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities to empower individuals and organizations driving positive change.
So, how exactly does the Atrium Program shine its light? Let’s explore its three key pillars:
CREATIVITY
At the core of Tiffany Atrium’s ethos is recognizing artistic expression as a catalyst for change. By nurturing emerging artists, creatives, and designers, Tiffany Atrium continues to build upon its distinguished legacy and instigates a transformative wave across the industry. Tiffany & Co. collaborated with the renowned visual artist Derrick Adams to orchestrate the launch of this eagerly awaited program. The outcome of this partnership was nothing short of spectacular. Adams’ creation, ‘I Shine, You Shine, We Shine,’ not only celebrated the inauguration of Tiffany Atrium but also inspired its logo, standing as a radiant symbol of this collaborative endeavor.
In June 2024, the House revealed the second installment of Atrium’s Artist Collaboration Series featuring American multidisciplinary artist Nina Chanel Abney. Known for her vibrant, thought-provoking works that address themes of race, gender, and politics, Abney’s collaboration with Tiffany & Co. brings a new dimension to the Atrium Program. Her bold, expressive style will continue to push the boundaries of creativity and social impact within the jewelry industry, further solidifying Tiffany’s commitment to empowering diverse voices and fostering artistic innovation.
EDUCATION
At the heart of Tiffany & Co.’s ethos is a profound understanding of education as a critical driver of social mobility and success. Their commitment to nurturing future generations is evident in their substantial student and institutional development investment. Marking a significant milestone, Tiffany & Co. became the inaugural Maison in September 2022 to introduce LVMH’s Métiers d’Excellence Institute to the United States, welcoming its first cohort of eight apprentices.
This prestigious New York State Craft Apprentice Program offers a two-year immersive experience at Tiffany, where apprentices receive hands-on jewelry design and fabrication training. What’s particularly commendable is the program’s focus on inclusivity and diversity, deliberately reaching out to historically underrepresented communities. This initiative is a strategic step towards creating equitable opportunities and cultivating a diverse talent pool in the jewelry industry.
COMMUNITY
At the heart of the Atrium initiative is a deep-seated recognition of the importance of nurturing robust and dynamic communities. Atrium is dedicated to ‘connecting employees, students, and nonprofit leaders to grow and celebrate shared values.’ This commitment is vividly reflected in their collaborations with organizations such as the Lower East Side Girls Club, which provides young women and gender-expansive youth of color in New York City with opportunities for a healthy and prosperous future. Another key partner is Free Arts NYC, which leverages art and mentoring to uplift youth from underserved communities. These partnerships exemplify Tiffany & Co.’s steadfast dedication to community enrichment and empowerment.
PARTING WORDS
Atrium’s impact resonates far beyond its individual partnerships, setting in motion a wave of positive change and encouraging others to contribute to the movement for social good. So, when you next admire the luster of a Tiffany necklace or the brilliance of their diamond rings, remember there’s more than just luxury to the brand. Underneath its opulent exterior lies a heartfelt commitment to crafting a brighter future for all.
The Atrium Program stands as a shining example of this philosophy, demonstrating that the most profound beauty is not just in the sparkle of jewels, but in their ability to light the way towards a more equitable and just world.
Have a great day!
With kind regards,
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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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):
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 || Setting the Stage for Success
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 who are interested in hosting their first special event fundraiser, or reinvigorating a dormant event, but may feel overwhelmed by the process.
One of the first things you must do is obtain buy-in from members of your leadership team, the board of directors and a small circle of influential donors – who will each play an important role in the fundraising campaign. However, without a blueprint to follow, where will you begin?
Today I will share 5 essential questions to help inform your discussions with these key stakeholders.
1. Why are you hosting this event?
There are many reasons why you have decided to host your signature event, chief among them is to generate income from table and ticket sales. That said, you should be able to clearly articulate how you will use the proceeds. Will you add new programs and services, or enhance ones that already exist? Will you participate in executive level training to further develop your leadership skills? How will you invest in your team?
2. Can you afford to do this?
Planning and executing large events can be expensive, and many unexpected costs will come up along the way. You must honestly assess how much you can invest, set a budget and determine the impact of these expenses on your day-to-day operations. Equally important, you must decide if you have enough cash on-hand to sustain the organization until the fundraising campaign generates income.
3. Do you have sufficient resources?
Please keep in mind, this event will unfold as you continue to manage your daily responsibilities. You must continue to serve your beneficiaries, collaborate with stakeholders and manage your team. Therefore, you should carefully determine how you will manage the interruptions that generally accompany events of this magnitude. Do you expect staff to shoulder the additional responsibilities or will you hire a professional team to provide assistance?
4. How will you engage your supporters?
Some organizations are challenged around ways to keep donors informed and engaged after the event. As you work to build your financial future, the quality of your interactions will be key. Among the high-level touches sophisticated donors will expect are invitations to curated cultivation and scholarly events, in-person updates on your beneficiaries progress and where you see them in your organization’s future.
5. How will you tell your hero stories?
If you showcase your beneficiaries during the event, you must do this in a way that honors them and presents their accomplishments in the best light. Remember everyone will watch how you treat those you have pledged to serve.
Hosting your first signature fundraiser is not easy. However, once your event is fine-tuned, and enjoys a loyal base of committed supporters, it will prove to be profitable for your bottom line. With proper planning and patience, you will be positioned to achieve six-or-seven figure event success.
If I can support your efforts, please contact me at Monique@Eventstrategies4success.com.
With kind regards,
Monique
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The Honoree/Organization Balance
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
As a fundraiser and event planner, one of the most promising moments comes when a client secures a corporate honoree (Chair and Chief Executive Officer of a global corporation). With this development, the organization is ready to implement a strategic fundraising campaign to meet, and exceed, the income goal.
Throughout my career, I’ve learned there is a delicate balance that must be maintained when working with a corporate honoree. It is equally important for organizations to acknowledge honorees also have expectations. This unique partnership can benefit both parties now and in the future. Today I am pleased to share some additional insights to add to your toolkit:
- Corporate honorees have great influence but do not come with an open checkbook. As leaders, they understand what is needed and are committed to supporting the fundraising campaign. As you enter into this process, please keep in mind support can take many forms, among them: (a) a one-time lead gift, (b) a multi-year sponsorship or (c) a one-time lead gift coupled with a pledge to secure additional support from their networks.
- Corporate honorees are careful with their investments; they take pride in knowing their resources (time, money, key personnel) add value to the bottom line. Corporate leaders will expect the organization to remain true to its mission, deliver on its promises and take an active role in fundraising.
- Corporate honorees are busy and their time is limited. Communication generally takes place via the honoree’s designee; an executive-level manager who works closely with Chair and Chief Executive Officer. Please honor and work within this structure.
- The organization should always work to strengthen its relationship with the corporate honoree. When appointing a staff member to work with the honoree’s designee, please select a senior manager who has good interpersonal skills and understands corporate etiquette. This will go a long way to building a lasting relationship after the event.
- The organization must be quick to say thank you and acknowledge all gifts, large and small, that come from the honoree’s efforts.
As always, I am here to support your efforts in any way that I can. For information, please visit http://www.eventstrategies4success.com. If I can be of assistance, please reach out to me at monique@Eventstrategies4success.com.
With kind regards,
Monique
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Creating an Event Budget to Ensure Success
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
Fundraisers and event planners know the important role budgets play when working with business and organization leaders. The event budget serves as a guide when hiring vendors, can serve as an effective negotiating tool and will help keep track of expenses. While this process can be layered, and usually requires several revisions, it cannot be minimized. Today I am sharing some insights into the expense budget planning process. I will discuss how the expense budget impacts fundraising goals in future posts.
Over the years, one technique I have found to be helpful is to group expenses into categories. This is a quick way to compare items from multiple vendors and make adjustments as needed.
THE VENUE
Selecting the perfect venue gives leaders an opportunity to impress donors and stakeholders. When reviewing options, comparing the cost of each venue is key. Here are some items to examine:
- Venue (Room rental fee)
- Venue (Room taxes)
- Venue (Additional set-up time)
- Reception (menu)
- Reception (beverages)
- Reception (premium bar service)
- Reception (limited bar service)
- Dinner (menu)
- Dinner (wine and beverages)
- Speciality Dessert
- Catering Service Charge (ranges from 18 to 21%)
- Food & Beverage Tax (waived for non-profits)
- Tasting Fee
- Additional insurance usually in effect the day of the event and for a few days after
SAVE-THE-DATE NOTICE, THE FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN & INVITATION
Once the venue is confirmed, the next step is organizing the campaign for support. I realize we live in a time where e-mail and social media are heavily used, I have come to realize many corporations, foundations and donors require – and appreciate – written requests for support. Social media and e-mail outreach can be used as a follow-up to a written request. Here are some items to include:
- Save-the-date card (designer fee)
- Save-the-date card (printer fee)
- Fundraising package (designer fee)
- Fundraising package (printer fee)
- Invitation package (designer fee)
- Invitation package (printer fee)
- Postage
- Messengers and/or overnight delivery
- Programs and journals to be distributed at the event (designer fee)
- Programs and journals to be distributed at the event (printer fee)
COORDINATING THE PARTS
As we know, large fundraisers involve many moving parts. For events with a 7-figure fundraising goal, and an attendee goal of 750 -800 guests or more, the organization’s mailing list will need to be in the thousands. Coordinating these items before they are mailed requires hours of preparation. If in-house resources are not available, hiring an outside vendor is critical. Here are some line items to include in the budget:
- Mailing list preparation (includes bad address removal and updates)
- Fundraising package preparation
- Invitation package preparation
CREATING THE VISION FOR THE EVENT
This is where leadership and the dinner team work with the event decorator to plan the look of the room, signature colors and the impression they want to make on donors and supporters. Here are some items to include in the decor budget:
- Linen
- Chairs
- Chair cushions
- Centerpieces
- Stage decor
- Step and repeat banner
- Speciality lighting package
- Speciality lighting (delivery, installation and breakdown)
- Fee for the delivery and pick up of all rental items
- Ropes and stanchions
- Pipes and Drapery
- Plants to use in key areas
THE PROGRAM
Once guests have been seated, its time for the show to begin. Think of how embarrassed the President or Board chair will be to learn his/her remarks can’t be heard? If a video is planned, the playback must be exceptional. Here are some items to include in your budget to ensure a professional presentation:
- Podium
- Wireless microphones
- Teleprompters
- Video screens
- Video recorders
- Audio-visual technicians
- Video playback units
- Program producer
- Floor manager
- Floor assistants
- Entertainment/Musicians
- Entertainment/Instruments
- Professional photographer
- Stage construction
A FEW ADDITIONAL IMPORTANT ITEMS
From special gifts of appreciation to honorees and guests, to saying thank you to dinner chairs and key staff members, planning for these items early in the process will ensure no one is overlooked. Here are some items to add to this category:
- Gifts and giveaways for guests
- Special awards for honorees
- Honorarium for emcee and keynote speakers
- Transportation for emcee and keynote speakers and other VIPs
- Transportation incurred for key staff participating in monthly planning meetings
- Hotel accommodations for emcee, keynote speakers and other VIPs
- Thank you gifts for dinner chairs, volunteers and key staff members who worked on the event
- Refreshments provided at monthly planning meetings
- Miscellaneous office supplies
- Delivery costs to send items to the venue on the day of the event
MANAGING ALL OF THE DETAILS
As my colleagues will attest, planning a fundraiser of this size requires great skill and coordination. Many organizations will look to a professional event planner to ensure the careful management and execution of details. Here are fees you should incorporate into your budget:
- Event planner fee
- Event planner overhead/administrative costs
- Event planner out-of-pocket expenses
Thank you for spending a few moments out of your day with me. I hope today’s post has been helpful to you. If I can be of assistance, please contact me at Monique@Eventstrategies4success.com.
With kind regards,
Monique
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Lessons Learned From Leaders
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
A dynamic group of young men and women invited me to share insights about my profession and the lessons I’ve gained from working with leaders.
Summarizing my role as a fundraiser and event planner took some time, as I tailored my message for a group of young adults. Still, discussing the lessons I’ve learned from business and organizational leaders required even more thought. With so much to share, I focused on providing information that would inspire them, provoke thoughtful reflection, and add value to their lives
Here are 7 vital lessons I’ve learned throughout my nonprofit journey:
- Leaders value partnerships. While a large part of my job is to identify needs, assess risks and organize talent, I am signing onto the organization’s mission. I am wedded to its success.
- Leaders value time. I always plan to be on time and make the most of every minute we have together.
- Leaders value preparation. I always prepare an agenda for it shows I am paying attention to the organization’s needs.
- Leaders value professionalism. My skills, attitude and enthusiasm are always on display.
- Leaders appreciate having time to adjust to new partnerships. When working with a new client, I always allow extra time to build rapport.
- Leaders value flexibility. During meetings, I understand that the agenda serves as a guide, fundraising objectives may change and each team member learns at a different rate. As such, I must be prepared to make reasonable shifts when needed.
- Leaders value the bottom line. I am transparent about all costs, why extra resources are needed and how the investment will add to the success of the project.
Thank you for spending a few moments out of your day with me. If I can be of assistance, please contact me at Monique@Eventstrategies4success.com.
With kind regards,
Monique
