Whether you're organizing a tournament, hosting a golf charity fundraiser, or coordinating a reunion outing, planning a golf event takes time, dedication, and a little ingenuity. We know how much work goes into planning these events, so if you're just starting the process, read through these tips and ideas. Happy golfing!
If this is your first time planning an event, you may want to consider hiring a professional event manager or coordinator. There are many companies that specialize in golf event management that have both experience and connections in the industry.
If a professional planner is not in your budget, a cheap (or free) alternative is to recruit volunteers. Host a planning meeting at a local restaurant, or meet at the golf course club house. Provide your volunteers with snacks and drinks and create a positive environment for creativity and brainstorming. This is where you can delegate certain duties to volunteers and divide up the work involved.
Once you have an idea of how many golfers you hope will attend and what type of event you are planning, you need to start looking around for a golf course or country club to host the event. Sometimes that's as easy as finding the closest one and working with what they have. If you have many options to choose from, there are many factors to keep in mind:
As with planning any big event, don't be afraid to shop around for the right venue.
It is also imperative that you plan for any weather condition. Rent a tent for the volunteer and registration area to shade from the sun. The golf course may already have tents that you can use or rent. Make sure to have plenty of water for your golfers and volunteers, especially for summer golf tournaments.
This is the really fun part! A memorable golf tournament or charity fundraiser theme is likely to attract many sponsors and excite your guests.
Don't be afraid to think outside the box in developing a theme. Get together with your planning committe for a few brainstorming sessions and let the ideas flow. We've compiled a list of fun golf event theme ideas, to help get you started.
Secure sponsors well in advance, as it may take some time to receive all the logos in the proper formats for banners. Companies often have strict branding guidelines, so have all logos approved before printing them. Sponsor logos are most often used on promotional marketing materials, event registration forms, event day banners, signs, and tournament giveaway items.
Whatever levels you come up with, having it spelled out gives potential sponsors more confidence in funding your event.
When you're budgeting for a charity outing, it might seem difficult to have enough left over to give to the group or organization. Here are a few easy fundraising ideas:
Word of mouth can be a strong tool, so don't be afraid to casually mention to friends, coworkers, and family that you are organizing this memorable event. Depending on your community you might be amazed at how quickly word will spread. But in case that doesn't work, here are a few other easy ideas to get golfers talking.
Advertise in local publications and online. Hang signs and flyers at the golf course venue and local golf equipment stores. Writing a press release and contacting the local news media is also a great idea for maximizing your exposure. Talk to your local radio station to either advertise or set up an on-air interview. Offering a reduced registration fee for early signup is a great tool for generating early interest in your event.
Consider using social media to enhance your marketing campaign; whether you use Facebook, Twitter, or a forum for golf enthusiasts, word spreads fast online. If you have an approved email list, consider sending an evite to golfers.
Help guests remember your event! Hire a local event photographer to take both candid and posed pictures at your event. Hiring a celebrity to pose with golfers for photos is a popular idea. If a celebrity is out of your budget, try a cardboard cut-out! It will give event attendees something to laugh about.
Order personalized photo folders or picture frames with the event name, date, and sponsors imprinted on them to include in the goodie bags. Event sponsors can help offset the cost of prizes and other promotional materials. Offer prizes and awards at the ceremony or after a meal to conclude your golf event.
Communicate often and early with your golf course venue. Learn what their rules are and explain your event in detail so they know what to expect. Proper communication will go far in ensuring a fun and memorable golf event.
