Events Unleashed plays a pivotal role as a premier event production agency in creating and shaping community events that transcend mere entertainment. We act as a bridge between the event’s purpose and the community’s needs, fostering stronger, more connected communities through thoughtful and impactful event design.

Events Unleashed's Role in Community Building

Identifying Community Needs:
As an experienced event production agency, Events Unleashed begins by deeply understanding the specific needs and dynamics of the community. We dive into the community’s history, culture, and current issues. This comprehensive approach allows us to tailor each event to address these needs, whether it’s through promoting local businesses, supporting social causes, or celebrating cultural heritage.

Strategic Planning and Engagement:
Effective community events require meticulous planning, a hallmark of our event production services. Events Unleashed collaborates closely with local leaders, stakeholders, and residents to ensure the event aligns with community goals. This strategic approach helps us secure community buy-in and participation, which is crucial for the event’s success.

Creating Inclusive and Accessible Events:
A key responsibility of Events Unleashed as a top-tier event production agency is to ensure that our events are inclusive and accessible to all community members. This involves careful consideration of factors like location, timing, language, and physical accessibility. By doing so, we create environments where everyone feels welcome and valued, fostering a genuine sense of belonging.

Amplifying Local Voices and Talents:
We at Events Unleashed prioritize highlighting local talents, artists, and businesses during community events. This not only boosts the local economy but also empowers community members by providing them a platform to showcase their skills and products. Our event production expertise ensures that these elements are seamlessly integrated into the event narrative.

Building Lasting Impact:
The true measure of a successful community event lies in its lasting impact. At Events Unleashed, we focus on creating events that leave a positive, enduring legacy. This includes raising significant funds for worthy causes, establishing traditions that become regular fixtures in the community’s cultural calendar, or simply strengthening the bonds between community members through our event production capabilities.

Leveraging Technology and Innovation:
As a forward-thinking event production agency, Events Unleashed utilizes the latest technology to enhance community events. This could involve virtual engagement tools, comprehensive social media campaigns, or interactive event apps that keep the community connected before, during, and after the event. These technological tools are also instrumental in gathering feedback and measuring the event’s impact on the community.

At Events Unleashed, we are more than just planners or a standard production agency; we are true community builders. We understand the intricate needs of the community and leverage our event production expertise to deliver events that truly resonate and make a lasting difference.

In the bustling heart of Austin, Texas, a boutique event planning firm stands out for its innovative approach and profound impact on both corporate and non-profit sectors. At the helm of Events Unleashed is Lahoma Dade, a visionary leader whose journey from banking to event planning has redefined what it means to create meaningful experiences.

From Finance to Fulfillment
Lahoma Dade's career began in the world of banking and finance, where she excelled as a bank officer. It was here that she noticed a significant gap in the market—black-led and minority organizations were receiving disproportionately less funding under corporate social responsibility missions. Recognizing the potential to bridge this gap, Lahoma envisioned a new path where her passion for community engagement could thrive. Thus, Events Unleashed was born, a company dedicated to not only planning events but also crafting authentic experiences that foster genuine connections and drive community impact.

A Decade of Impact
Celebrating over a decade in the industry, Lahoma has transformed Events Unleashed into a beacon of innovation and engagement. Her firm specializes in both corporate and non-profit event planning, with a unique focus on serving marginalized communities. From high-profile corporate galas to meaningful non-profit events, Lahoma's meticulous approach ensures that every event is more than just a gathering—it is a powerful tool for storytelling and connection.

Under Lahoma's leadership, Events Unleashed has expanded its reach to support non-profit production organizations internationally and serve Fortune 100 companies. This growth is a testament to Lahoma's dedication to excellence and her unwavering commitment to making a difference.

Beyond the Event
What sets Lahoma apart is not just her expertise in event planning, but her holistic approach to leadership and community connection. She is a thought leader, a mentor, and a community connector who believes in the power of events to inspire and transform. Her philosophy, “You haven't seen an event until you've Unleashed one with us,” is more than a slogan—it's a reflection of her belief in creating events that resonate deeply with attendees.

Away from the hustle of event planning, Lahoma is a traveler, a dog mom, a tennis enthusiast, and a mentor. Her diverse interests and multifaceted personality enrich her professional life, bringing a unique depth to her work.

Looking to the Future
As Lahoma Dade and Events Unleashed look to the future, their mission remains clear: to create lasting legacies of connection and community impact. Lahoma's journey from finance to event planning serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and a testament to the power of vision and dedication.

Events Unleashed is more than just an event planning company; it is a transformative force in the industry, driven by Lahoma's enduring vision. Through her leadership, Events Unleashed continues to foster authentic connections, empower communities, and create unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impact.

Unleash the Potential of Every Event
At Events Unleashed, we don't just plan events; we create extraordinary experiences. Specializing in luxury weddings, corporate events, and non-profit galas, we bring a blend of creativity, precision, and passion to every occasion. Our expert team is dedicated to transforming your vision into a reality that surpasses expectations.

Why Choose Us?
A Symphony of Details: Every event is a unique story, and we're here to craft yours with an unmatched attention to detail. From the initial concept to the final execution, our meticulous approach ensures a seamless experience.

Your Vision, Our Expertise: Leveraging our extensive industry knowledge and innovative ideas, we curate events that reflect your style, goals, and values.

Stress-Free Planning: Our comprehensive services allow you to enjoy the journey to your event, knowing that every element is handled with professional finesse.

Stand Out with Events Unleashed
Bespoke Weddings: Say 'I do' to a wedding that mirrors your dreams, crafted with elegance and love.

Corporate Events Redefined: Elevate your brand with corporate events that blend business objectives with memorable experiences.

Galas with a Cause: Make an impact with non-profit events that resonate with your mission and inspire your audience.

Your Event, Our Passion
Events Unleashed stands apart in the realm of event planning. With a focus on personalized service, innovative design, and flawless execution, we promise an event that not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Let's embark on this journey together - where your vision meets our expertise.

Get in Touch
Ready to start planning? Contact us for a free consultation and let us help you unleash the full potential of your next event.

Leverage Crisis management skills
If your corporate or non-profit event historically takes place in-person or you've already spent months planning it that way, communication is key to getting your key stakeholders on board with your new, digital event solution.  To ease them into the process, you’ll need to channel your crisis management skills by: 

• Actively listening 
• Seeking to understand their pain points
• Clearly outlining the benefits that address their pain points with data that provides measurable outcomes.

Keep in mind, not everyone feels comfortable with the digital landscape, and when people feel forced into something they’re not comfortable with, they panic.  

As a leader in the event industry, we realize we help our clients anticipate objections, provide analytics and best practices, and develop communication strategies at all levels putting our clients team at ease.  We understand that you'll need to address concerns including:

• No one will pay attention if we run an event virtually.
• No one will sign up or show up.
• We don't have the technology to do it right. 
• We shouldn't do anything, times are hard right now, etc. 

Panic and push back are natural reactions when key leaders and stakeholders are bogged down by perceived limitations, especially when in-person events have been the standard and/our bread and butter for so long.  Focusing on what's hindering your output, emphasize to your key leadership the benefits of digital events.  Here are just a few to help get that conversation started.

Cost Savings
Virtual events for non-profit organizations deeply reduces traditional event budget's biggest line items, specifically venue rental feeds and catering charges. The data currently reflects that many non-profit organizations and corporations are saving up to 80%  by pivoting virtually. Let's break that down virtual event cost savings measures a little further:

1. Venue Rental Fees
2. Food and Beverage
3. Venue Décor
4. Venue Lighting
5. Venue On-Site Signage
6. Ground Transportation and Logistics 
7. Printed Programs, and more! 

Virtual events shrink some of the most expenses line items, giving your budget the breathing room to explore the tech solutions your stakeholders think are unattainable. When you go virtual, you are the venue.  And who doesn't love that? 

Direct Access to Donors and Millennials 
When you leverage new technology to innovative, chances are high that tech savy donors and millennials will flock to what you're doing.  Generation Y puts a higher value on screen-based interactions than any generation before them, so why not capitalize on all that real estate?  
Millennial attendance is especially key to your event if it includes a charitable component.  A 2014 New Horizon Media study found that 81 percent of millennials expect corporations to put their money where their mouth is and contribute to philanthropies.  If your event includes, or can include, components relating to charity, climate change, or sustainability, you’re going to want to engage millennials in the medium where they are most comfortable.

Inclusivity
Our earlier point on cost-savings applies to attendees as well. Virtual events provide more access for a more diverse and inclusive audience, particularly those who desire to participate but may not be able to afford ticket prices, travel, budget for meals, air fare, hotels, keepsakes, even cocktails for the after-hours networking crowd.  It even becomes easier for those with disabilities to attend and participate in your event.  Essentially, when you go virtual, you’re breaking down the barrier to entry and providing your non-profit organization or corporation access to a whole new group.  
And a secret bonus benefit: You'd  be surprised how many introverts can  more easily come out of their shell when behind a screen.  You just might meet potential donors, sponsors, or fans you never knew you had. 

Remember, arguments in the face of crisis lead to more crises.  When you’re able to listen, relate, and communicate, your odds of getting your event stakeholders on the same page are significantly boosted.
We'd be delighted to support you with all your virtual event needs, please contact us to learn more.

Wedding planners, wedding coordinators, event planners, event coordinators, event designers... there are a lot of terms for wedding and event professionals and they may sound one in the same. The roles of each are similar but there are distinct differences between them all. If that isn't already confusing enough, most wedding and event planners also offer coordination services.

We're here to help you make sense of it all! Keep on reading to learn more about each and the roles they play when it comes to your big wedding or event day.

Wedding or Event Planner
A wedding or event planner helps you plan aspects of your event, with the the level of service usually differing amongst package options. Most planning packages will also include coordination services from the planner or someone on the planner's team. Planners help you in many ways, from recommending vendors and venues, to scheduling appointments, to managing RSVP's, to developing the event theme & concept, to floor plans and more.

Wedding Planners often focus their services on weddings but some may also offer event services. For Event Planners, some may offer services for all events, but others may specialize in a certain type of event planning. These categories include but are not limited to:
-Non Profit Event Planners: Plans non profit and charity events such as galas, fundraisers, auctions, and more.
-Corporate Event Planners: Plans corporate events such as company launch parties, dinners, luncheons, seminars, company parties and retreats, company conferences, and more.
-Meeting and Conference Planners: This planner specializes in planning meetings and conferences that are usually on the larger scale.
-Social Event Planners: Plans social events such as birthday parties, baby showers, engagement parties, graduation parties, wedding showers, holiday parties, themed parties, and more.
-Virtual Event Planners: Specialize in planning and gaining awareness for online events.

Wedding or Event Designer
Wedding or event designers specialize in design and decor, being experts at making your event visions come to life. Event designers may offer their own planning & coordination services or work closely with other planners, allowing them to focus solely on design.

Event Production
​Event production focuses on behind-the-scenes tasks such as lighting, audio-visual, video, stages, and more. Event production works closely with the planner to assure the production is on par with the planning.

With COVID-19 causing waves worldwide, we are finding a divide in the United States, with many states extending stay-at-home orders while others are slowly working to reopen with restrictions in place. 

During this time at home, the event industry has taken a big hit. Many non profits rely on the funds raised through galas, and with the orders in place restricting large gatherings and events, raising money during this time may seem somewhat impossible. Events Unleashed wants you to know you can still raise the money you need during this time, and that we are here to help!

More options than you think
​As a non-profit, you have more options than you think when it comes to raising money during this pandemic. Even through devastating times, people are still willing to help, so it's important not to get discouraged!

1. Raise through your website and social media
Now more than ever, engaging with your audience on social media is a great way to gain support. Revamp your website and/or social media, create content that really gets your mission across, and let your followers know they can donate (big or small) with an easy click of a button. Create an easy donation process on your website or use Instagram's new donation sticker option.

2. Postponing your event
Postponing your event is a great alternative to canceling. The event industry is working hard to get all the events that needed to be canceled moved to late 2020 or early 2021. It's not too late to postpone yours!

3. Online/Virtual Gala 
Turning your event virtual is a great way to keep your fundraising goals up to date. With easy ways to go live (like Facebook Live), you're still able to have silent auctions, live auctions, paddle-raises, online donation options, text-to-donate, and more! You can provide your audience with fun and entertainment from the comfort of their homes. Reaching out to guest speakers or performers and asking them to participate can also help raise engagement. 

To learn more about a virtual gala or event, contact us today! We'd love to help you navigate the online event space while providing support during planning.

​Articles in Tech Crunch, Mashable, and others can support you by walking you through the new Instagram launch of fundraising for non-profit organizations with 100% of funds raised directly to the non-profit organization! 

For Instagram Live Donations:
To start a Live Donation, open Instagram on your phone, tap the camera icon on the top left, choose Live on the bottom of the screen, select Fundraiser, and choose a nonprofit you want to support. Instagram says that all of the money raised will go directly to that organization.

As an added bonus, Instagram has also launched another new feature for donations through Story stickers. Now, when someone donates to a nonprofit through a sticker, they get to unlock an "I donated" sticker for themselves. 

Taking advantage of Fundraising for Non-Profits on Instagram:
First things first, in order to take advantage of fundraising on Instagram as a non-profit organization while live streaming, you will have to meet the requirements below and follow these steps: 

To raise money on Instagram, your nonprofit must:

• Enroll and be approved to use Facebook Charitable Giving Tools.
• Switch to an Instagram business account, if you haven't already.
• Link your nonprofit's Instagram business account with your nonprofit's verified Facebook Page.
• If this is your first time linking to your Page or enrolling with Facebook Charitable Giving Tools, check to make sure that people are able to add donation stickers on Instagram for your nonprofit. You can do this by clicking Publishing Tools at the top of your Facebook Page and selecting Donation Settings below Fundraisers. Click to check the box next to Allow people to add donation stickers on Instagram Stories and click Save.

If your nonprofit has further questions or requires support, please contact them on Facebook.

Adding a donate button to your nonprofit's Instagram business account
To add a donate button to your nonprofit's Instagram business account:

1. Confirm that your nonprofit organization has taken the steps above to become eligible to fundraise on Instagram.
2. Go to your profile and tap .
3. Tap Settings.
4. Tap Business > Donations.
5. Tap  next to Add Donate Button to Profile.

If you're unable to find Donations, please update your Instagram app to the latest version.

Share with us, what does that mean for your organization? 

The Coronavirus has done a lot of damage but there is some good that we can attribute the our current situation, specifically innovation. As a successful non-profit event planner in Austin, Texas it is imperative that in a tech city that virtual events meet tech. Below are 4 key things that you should know to setup a successful virtual event. 

1. Not all platforms are created equal. The exist but a SWOT analysis is necessary for you to  ensure that you are on the right platform for your audience. A quick and dirtly list of great plaforms to consider are: 

• WebEx
• Facebook Live
• Hopin
• Zoom
• GoToMeeting
• YouTube
• Vimeo
• Twitch
• ON24
• Skype
• Microsoft Teams
• IceBreaker

We have our thoughts on the right plaforms so be sure to continue coming back to the blog for important content as you innovate and take your events virtual! 

2. A live event is not an online event and should be treated as such! A live event should be at or less than 30 minutes. The following graphic outlines an example event flow. 

3. Is this thing on? The best thing you to do is test, test, and test again. If your audience cannot hear the brilliant live event that you planned it would be a real bummer! Consider investing in high-quality sound and even higher quality camera/video. 

4. Engagement is critical. Comments in live events should be expected and having a clear communication strategy is key to leveraging the opportunity to develop even more raving fans! Plus, there are tools out there that allow organizations maximize donations during the live event!

If you are looking to get assistance or find the right tool for a virtual event, we would love to chat about your unique online experience. Contact us by email at [email protected], we are here to help! 

It is so fitting in this time that we band together to share great information when we come across it. We all know that we need to communicate and stay top of mind but to whom and when?  The blog post below outlines some key tips that you can implement in your non-profit organization today! 

As is the case during any situation, the more you segment your communications for specific audiences, the more likely those communications are to resonate with the recipient. Now, however, is a critical time to take inventory of your most valuable supporters (can’t lose people) and reach out contextually.

The following list of 10 supporter segments should be your top priority. What you say to these folks doesn’t have to look wildly different. Pick up the phone, break out the stationary, or fire up your personal email. Say thanks, recognize the type of supporter that they are/their past support, and remind them you’re still here and that you’re still providing services that are invaluable (or will resume doing so soon). But most importantly, check in to see how they are doing.

Here’s the list:
1. Top 80% of your funding (probably <20% of your donors) – Following the Pareto Principle, a majority of your funding is likely coming from a small, select group of donors. This is the only segment where gift amount comes into play.

2. “Long-term-loyals” (3-5+ years of giving) – According to Jerry Panas, these are the donors most likely to leave you a bequest later in life, regardless of their age, wealth and giving amount right now.

3. Monthly donors – With household budgets about to tighten, it’s possible that monthly expenses will start to go on the chopping block. Support for your org won’t be if you have checked in to say how much they’re appreciated. Do it now before the economy worsens.

4. Longtime corporate sponsors – Some of these folks may be especially hurting right now. Check in to see how they are doing. Perhaps have a board member or the head or your org reach out to their owner or CEO.

5. P2P fundraisers – Not, P2P donors. P2p fundraisers, the folks that in the past have gone out and done Facebook birthday fundraisers or ran a 5k for you. You might be leaning on them very soon to raise money for you again on social media.

6. Those who actively engage with you on social media – These are ideal, future P2P fundraisers, as well as those who can spread the word more broadly when you might need it. Start keeping track of who is and has in the past liked, commented and shared your posts.

7. Volunteers/members who have not donated – With in-person volunteerism likely prohibited, perhaps monetary support can be a replacement for volunteer hours. Members or direct service recipients (think YMCA) who cannot come on-site for classes, workouts, etc. may be willing to donate above their membership fees to keep the facility afloat.

8. Those with scheduled pledges – Similar to monthly donors, this is expected revenue that you don’t want to miss.

9. Board members – Do you have 100% board giving? Now is the time to ask if you’ve been avoiding the issue. Get them involved in calling, emailing or writing the other nine groups in this list. Messages coming from board members will have just as much if not higher significance than your staff.

10. New donors within 90 days (this should include Giving Tuesday and Year-End donors) – These are the donors at most risk of lapsing (other than P2P and Memorial/Tribute donors). Retention rates here are around 20%, and your window to retain them is already closing. Research shows that the faster you thank a new donor, the better:

• first-time donors who get a personal thank you within 48 hours are 4x more likely to give a second gift.
  (McConkey-Johnston International UK)
• a thank-you call from a board member to a newly acquired donor within 24 hours of receiving the gifts will increase their next gift by 39%. (Penelope Burk)
• the faster you get a second gift, the higher the gift amount (AnalyticalOnes)
• Bloomerang research found nearly-identical results.

A lot of these folks may be waiting to hear from you – if they’re anything like the donors interview in Penelope Burk’s Donor Survey – so don’t delay.

“I could always expand giving a little, but I try to hold back in case there is a major need at one of the organizations I support. I always like to have a little in reserve in case a special need comes along.”

“There were two instances this year where I made gifts over and above what I had intended and they both involved personal contact from someone in the development office (director or gifts officer). Being thanked for my previous gift was much more persuasive than receiving multiple emails and direct mail letters.”

Many of these segments will include small donors. They are now more important than ever!

SOURCE: ​​https://bloomerang.co/blog/10-important-donor-types-to-communicate-to-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak/