How does hiring an effective event producer for your gala help free up resources to drive more revenue?

Today, I talk with Jacqui Schraad, Executive Director of the Texas State History Museum Foundation, and Krystle Alvardo, Principal of Alvarado Consulting, to talk about the Texas Independence Day Dinner.

One of Texas's most anticipated fundraising galas each year, the Texas Independence Day Dinner draws hundreds of patrons from all corners of the state to celebrate Texas Independence Day. Over the past several years, Jacqui and Krystle have formed a model working relationship to create an elevated experience for guests while increasing fundraising.

Last year's Texas Independence Day Dinner raised a record $1.29 million for the Foundation, with the proceeds benefiting the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. The 2026 Texas Independence Day Dinner will honor two Texas Legends: University of Texas Basketball Coach Emeritus Jody Conrat and trailblazing education leader Ruth J. Simmons.

Jacqui and Krystle provide valuable insights on a range of topics, including tips on creating an event that resonates with people from multiple markets, how to develop a strong, long-term relationship between a nonprofit and event producer, planning event details around honorees, and so much more. This is one episode you will definitely not want to miss.

How does an organization successfully switch venues and create a seamless event experience for guests?

Today, I talk with Kerri Ann Chambless and Ginny Liverman, co-chairs for the upcoming Helping Hand Home For Children Crystal Ball.

Austin's most widely attended gala each year, the Helping Hand Home Crystal Ball has successfully drawn multiple generations of families to their annual gala over the past 82 years. The year the Crystal Ball is moving to a new venue: The Fairmont in Downtown Austin. The organization has taken the move as an opportunity innovate and put a new spin on their already highly successful, $2 million annual gala to new heights.

Kerri Ann and Ginny provide valuable insights on a range of topics, including tips on building a devoted following for your annual gala, creating strong event subcommittees to carry out your event vision, how gala chairs can put their own personal stamp on a long-running event, and so much more. This is one episode you will not want to miss.

How does an organization successfully create an event season that has patrons and donors anticipating its signature fundraising event for months on end?

Today, I talk with Dallas Symphony Orchestra League President Claire Catrino and Maggie Kipp, co-chair of the DSO League 2026 Presentation Ball.

One of the most successful presentation balls in the United States, the 2026 Presentation Ball will celebrate two significant milestones: the 80th anniversary of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League and the 40th anniversary of the Presentation Ball. Proceeds raised from the event will benefit the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, which is also celebrating a milestone of their own: their 125th anniversary.

The DSO League has a nine-month season of events that includes a kickoff party that gets patrons excited for the upcoming festivities, culminating with the Presentation Ball. The upcoming 2026 DSO Presentation Ball is set to draw a record 1,400+ patrons.

Claire and Maggie provide valuable insights on a range of topics, including creating a strong relationship between a guild and an organization, building a devoted following for your event that spans generations, how to make that kickoff party one that creates buzz and momentum, and so much more. This is one episode you will not want to miss.