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You have a concept and you have a cause. Add a charitable intention and you
have a gala fund-raiser, right? Wrong. It takes more than just a noble idea to
get people to part with their money. High fashion is by far the best way to lure
in a great crowd. But given that it takes over Rs 3 lakh to put together a sizeable
show in the first place, it is a good idea to do thorough groundwork before you
decide to embark on the ramp rage.
Start off by drawing up a proper proposal to approach sponsors. Donations for
charity are liable for tax exemptions under section 80G, so once you ensure them
proper publicity, it?s fairly easy to rake in the moolah. The key here is to identify
appropriate sponsors in keeping with the theme. Fashion houses and designer brands
are the best bet to approach first, consumer durable and FMCG companies come in
a close second and third.
Next, identify the proper venue. A charity event, especially if it is of the fashion
show variety, needn?t necessarily be held in a run-down auditorium. Glitz, glamour
and due publicity go hand in hand, so five-star venues are ideal. Given the nature
of the do, a star hotel worth its pomp would usually be all too willing to sponsor
it and indulge in a little goodwill gesture of their own.
Draw up an extensive guest list that includes the
who?s who in town. While you can?t afford to miss out on the glam quotient, it?s
a good idea to include some substance in the form of literary names as well, given
the nature of the event. And don?t forget the top industrialists of the city,
as directly or indirectly, they are the source of most sustenance.
Getting models and a compere at subsidised rates,
creating quirky invites, devising a proper script and music could be quite a headache
for you, but less so for a competent event manager with the right contacts. You
may consider contacting one to ensure a smooth flow.
Last but not least, roping in a designer, preferably
a national name willing to churn out a new collection in tune with the mood of
the evening, can make all the difference between a show being the talk of the
town and one that doesn?t even get a breakfast mention.
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