Organising a charity event can be a wonderful and fulfilling thing to do, but it doesn’t come without its issues. As a planner, charity events are the ones I find most challenging to piece together. The usual suspects of budgets, guest numbers and timeframes go out the window and you are left with what could potentially be a stressful situation. It never has to be, it should be a fun way to give back to the community and charity.

The most important thing to build is a good team, your committee need to be reliable, relaxed and well connected - the last is crucial! By gathering a group of well connected people you are lightening your load. Start your first committee meeting with a general plan and timeline on how to sell tickets, gather prize donations and come up with a theme. Set small and reasonable targets that everyone can meet and always remain positive.

There may come a time when the finances are looking slim or the interest in tickets is looking low, but this is the time not to panic, but motivate the committee to keep going. It’s crucial to divide as much responsibility as possible. Focus on finding table hosts and leaving them to source their guests for their table.

When it comes to sourcing raffle and auction lots, the more extravagant the better, just remember ‘shy guys get nout’! Contact as many businesses and services as possible. Not everyone will say yes, but don’t get too disheartened when they say no. Try to reach out to businesses with an interest in the charities or a connection with a committee member to help with décor, marketing and branding.

The final month is where the fun happens, all ticket sales, raffle and auction lots should be collected and you finally have a budget for any décor needed, added extras and entertainment. Although the first goal is to raise as much money for charity as possible, it is also crucial to put on a great show and offer your guests value for money.

Lastly, have fun and enjoy yourself.

A few photos from this summer’s charity ball held at the Leas Cliff Hall in Folkestone. Our committee, Footprints Events, raised a wonderful £17,740 for Hazel’s Footprints Trust and Pilgrims Hospices.