Decorating Your Club “For Free” (with Extra Revenues on the Side)

Submitted by the Los Angeles Country Club

by C&RB Staff (editor@clubandresortbusiness.com)
April 2008
 

Sometimes the best source of talent and expertise that a club can tap into for a special event can literally be found in-house, through the abilities and interests of its membership. After an Assistant Club Manager at the Los Angeles Country Club overheard some members talk about their hobbies, a great new event for that club was born: The Members Art Show, which now annually provides an outlet for LACC members to display their artistic creativity. And, because it is held during a slower period for dining room revenues, it also helps the club generate extra food and beverage sales.

For the show, existing clubhouse artwork is removed and members’ work is displayed, with existing club lighting, special easels and pegboards used to help create an “Art Gallery” feel. (The Main Lounge is also specially decorated in a gallery motif for the occasion.) Captions are prepared to highlight each member’s name and title of entry.  

The event has grown to the point where in 2007, over 100 pieces were on display. And, with participating members proud that they were given an opportunity to showcase their work in this fashion, many now bring friends and family to the club to see the display, which generates covers in the formal dining area, and cocktail sales in the lounge, that more than cover any expenses incurred by holding the Art Show.