One of the most exciting charity events I have ever attended was a fashion show. There was a lot happening and so many people giving. It was sensational. If you want to do something for your community then host a fashion show for charity. If it sounds like a daunting task then take heart. We’ve got a simple guideline that will help you host and plan your fashion show for charity.
There are two ways to raise money for charity with your fashion show. First is to feature outfits that your guests can purchase or bid on. You’ll need some clothing donors who would be willing to either purchase and donate outfits or find a clothing company willing to do that. The second and probably the easiest is to host a fashion show for charity with a set admittance price, including a lunch. The second type is the one I attended and I loved it. We saw outfit after outfit, were given a box lunch and were even given some door prizes!
The Fashion Source
You can’t have a fashion show without a fashion source. This first step takes a little leg work but persistence will pay off. Talk to local thrift store owners. See if someone would be willing to help you coordinate this event. It’s better to use thrift store finds. It saves money and you’ll do a bit of advertising for the source of your clothing. Also, maybe the store would give you a percentage of clothing sold on a particular advertised day or specific time. That would help you earn money for your charity in two ways.
The Models
You’ll need to provide models for your fashion show. It’s good to choose women from a variety of ages and sizes. Your models don’t have to have experience. You can practice with them how to walk down the runway. Even if you aren’t sure, it helps build their confidence. Using models that are familiar to the audience is a plus. Seeing friends and family working it for charity just makes people want to give! I would! Be sure and get your models sizes to the clothing source as soon as possible. You might even get the models to help choose their outfits. Or not. It’s up to you!
The Location
Host your fashion show at your local church or in the thrift store. A community center would also be a good choice if you could get a great price for the facility. You don’t want hall rental cutting too much into your charity’s funds. Whatever the location, as the host site, request they advertise on their sign in advance. Be sure the location has a place that will accommodate your models while they change and an area you could use as a runway.
Get the Word Out!Planning and advertising in advance will make your fashion show a sell out. Get the word out on talk radio, bulletin boards and community papers. Use the free advertising! There is plenty out there if you just look hard enough. Enlist the help of friends and volunteers and create a program. Have an Emcee or Announcer volunteer their time and professional voice to your worthy event.
The Details
We were served chicken croissants with bottled water and it was great. Be sure and employ lots of volunteers to help pass out lunches or desserts or whatever you decide. Set your price and punch the numbers to be sure of how much profit you’ll make. Also ask local dollar stores to donate some items for door prizes or drawings. Your show will be hit!
