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When trying to plan an event, the possibilities may seem endless. We recommend hosting an event where connecting with other folks is the main focus. Given that many of the communities in Plura often don’t have dedicated spaces to meet each other, this will likely be attractive enough for folks to attend. Successful event models we’ve seen include an identity + interest (e.g. kinky picnics, queer happy hours, and poly hikes). It’s also much easier to find a venue and set up when you keep things simple.
This may seem obvious, but it’s helpful to start with your existing social circles when creating a new event. Having a core group of people initially is important for setting the vibe of your event, as well as ensuring that you yourself will have fun even if turnout is low the first couple of times. For your first event, make sure you have 3 friends coming so you can all hang out even if nobody else shows up (not that they won’t!)
If you’re looking for people to join beyond your personal networks, post your event on Plura for fellow community members to see it. If you’re part of any relevant local groups on Facebook, Meetup, Discord, etc., post it there too! (We recommend sharing the Plura link so that everyone can be in one place.)
Writing the event description is often where folks get stuck. We’d recommend specifying who you want the event to be for (e.g. ENM people, queer women and non-binary folks, BIPOC people) and being as inclusive as possible within that group (e.g. specifying that all styles of ENM or all forms of genderqueer folks are welcomed and encouraged to come). People also tend to respond well to descriptions that feel low-pressure.*
Event descriptions are one way to set the tone and build enthusiasm around your event. You can also utilize the event group chat in Plura to send reminders, logistics announcements, and build hype closer to the day!
People are going to love your event and want to tell their friends! A big way events like this grow are through word of mouth, so encourage your friends to share the event details with their own networks. You can also have specific themes for who to invite sometimes, e.g. “Bring a partner” or “Bring a curious friend.”
As you add your events to Plura and people RSVP, you’ll start building a following within the platform. Everyone who RSVPs to one of your events becomes a “follower” of your organization (unless they opt out), and will receive notifications whenever you add a new event.
The most successful community building events happen on a recurring basis, such as monthly. This creates a regular and consistent cadence where community members can expect to see each other and socialize. Many organizers will pick a set day of the week of the month (e.g. First Thursdays or last Sundays), while others rotate so that more people can join (e.g. Saturdays every 3 weeks). In either case, it’s good practice to post your event 2-3 weeks before it happens so people have time to plan.
Some of the most rewarding aspects of being an organizer are seeing other people step up to help host, spread the word, and create their own spin-off events out of your event. We’ve seen things like karaoke, roller-skating, and bird-watching come out of San Diego’s ENM Social. When folks ask about hosting their own event, encourage them to do so and help them share it around your community. You can even send them this guide!
*Feel free to reach out to events@bloomcommunity.com for sample event descriptions and general advice!
