Tales from the Chair – Houston: Heather Pray
February 17, 2010
Co-Chair: Heather Pray
Fundraiser: I Dream of Maharani
Event Description: An evening fit for Indian royalty celebrating Houston Young People for the Arts’ 5th year, honoring Randall Jamail for his vision & commitment to the arts and encouraging our future artists by partially benefiting a community outreach program at Houston Ballet. The evening highlighted artists in Houston’s Indian community including Yogi G, dance troupe Hybrid Rhythms, Indian fusion fashion designer Prashe (she is from Dallas) and much more. The evening was originally inspired by the upcoming world premiere of Stanton Welch’s La Bayadere with Houston Ballet.
Date of Event: February 6, 2010
What is it about the organization that made you willing to take on the role as event Co-Chair?
I am a co-founder of the organization and actually dreamed up the I Dream of Maharani concept a year ago – I had to make sure it happened precisely like I imagined.
What was special about the event?
If this is an annual event, what were new elements added to this year?
HYPA Gala is annual; however, the theme is always different. Last year was Fire & Ice with fire dancers, ice bars, etc. This year – we were indoors, for one, thank goodness – and showcased a section of Houston that our typical crowd does not see performances of or experience their culture. It was very important to me that it be as authentic as possible and Shena Cherian of Desi-gn helped me with every aspect to make it happen.
What constitutes success for you with regards to the specific event you’re Co-Chairing?
High ticket sales are always a definite highlight; however, it really is people saying they had a great time. They have so many options in our city and I am honored that they took time out of their busy schedules to be a part of something I really believe in and so I also want to make the evening worthy of their time.
How do you balance the quantifiable goal of raising money with the goal of broadening goodwill?
I think awareness is so important…the best outcome would be able to not only raise money but also help spread the word of what all these amazing organizations do. If you can balance both of those, then I think you’re onto something.
What plans did you make to address problems that may arise?
Communication with the venue and its staff is so important. Of course, something is not going to go as planned but as long as you make it look seamless – it’s all good. I guess all I can say is, “Keep calm and carry on.”
Were there any pre-event parties for Benefactors?
We have a post-party for our host committee and we will also invite our benefactors. I try to keep parties to a minimum because I think it’s important to not detract from the main one and keep other people’s time in check – it’s a very busy world out there.
What background do you have to take on the role as Co-Chair?
I’ve handled events for parties of 2 to 7,000 for the past couple of years and I always learn new things from each one. Take all the positive points from the past parties and I think you will end up with a very successful rest. I also chaired the previous one, Fire & Ice, and it was our most successful fundraiser yet…so a good track record helps.
Have you chaired other charitable events? If so, please name them.
HYPA’s Fire & Ice, Houston Grand Opera O.N. Ride of the Valkyries, 13 Celsius’ Pink Party for the Beth Sanders Moore Young Breast Cancer Survivors’ Program at M. D. Anderson. I’ve also hosted other parties for Trey McIntyre Project and many of the members’ events for Houston Young People for the Arts.
What did you wear to the event?
I wore a gorgeous sari purchased in Pakistan. Black, gold, red…all of my favourite colours.
What is your fundraising motto?
Oooh. Good one. I think if you have good events, you’ll be successful in fundraising. A good event motto is, ”Timing and lighting are everything.”
Who is your fundraising role model?
Lynn Wyatt
What qualities make an event Chair successful?
Calmness & ability to communicate. Also, one thing I’m still perfecting is my ability to delegate. Volunteers are also very important – without them, I would be nowhere.
What external resources do you use in your fundraising efforts?
I’ve been involved with many organizations as a volunteer and those have helped me learn different techniques. I am not a professional fundraiser by any stretch of the imagination. I know what I believe in and take that with some creativity and hope it works.
What is the best charitable event you’ve attended and why?
Houston Grand Opera ball in 2009 was probably one of my most magical nights. Their special events team (and organization, period) are extremely amazing. I especially loved the trapeze artist swinging above us at the Wortham Theater. Plus, wearing a ball gown is always special and makes you feel like a princess (who doesn’t like to feel like that sometimes?). I also went to a fun event with the Wonderland Bash for Alley Theatre a few weeks ago. They had all sorts of visual eye candy and a photo booth that was really a must-stop of the evening…and I had to have one for my party, too. I also adore low-key events…where I’m not having to dress up too much or in costume…Pup Squad at Houston Pavilions does some great events in their space. Another one that is a must-go is Catastrophic Theatre’s annual bash…I have gone each year and cannot wait for this one this year as Jim Parsons from Big Bang Theory will be a special guest and it’s always huge thrill with no fuss at their events.
Like I said…Houston is a major philanthropic city. There are so many events and so many great ideas…I wish I could make them all. I really want to go to the Houston Ballet Ball.
What is one fundraising tip you’ve learned that you’re willing to share?
Support others. It’s not just about you and your event. Whether it’s through time or money, they both help out.
What fundraising innovation do you wish would be invented?
Maybe not innovation so much…but I’m always trying to make sure to be on trend. I’ve noticed price points dropping due to the economy and formats changing. Will the typical gala continue in our world as it is today or what will replace it? I wish I knew! I would also like to be able to teleport so I can make as many events as possible.
What faded tradition do you wish would be resurrected?
Emily Post’s version of an RSVP.
