Fundraising through wreath sales can be a highly effective way to generate support, especially during the holiday season. However, common missteps can hinder your efforts and impact the results. By identifying and avoiding these pitfalls, you can help ensure a smooth, successful fundraiser that meets or exceeds your goals. Here are the top fundraising mistakes to avoid when selling wreaths and how to set your team up for success.
1. Neglecting Pre-Planning
The excitement of starting a fundraiser can lead some teams to jump in without adequate preparation. However, successful wreath sales require planning every stage—from setting goals to organizing sales channels. Neglecting these early steps often results in confusion, unmet expectations, and even loss of funds. A well-thought-out plan should include target sales numbers, an outline of roles and responsibilities, and a timeline.
Tip: Set clear goals and assign roles to each team member. Having a wreath fundraising calendar can help keep everyone on the same page with important deadlines and check-ins.
2. Setting Unrealistic Sales Goals
Enthusiasm is essential, but overly ambitious goals can create pressure and disappointment if unmet. Not all communities are the same, and understanding your customer base and past sales records can help set more achievable goals.
Tip: Look at previous years’ sales (if available) to gauge what’s reasonable for your current team. Adjust expectations based on the size of your community and the number of volunteers available.
3. Overlooking Product Quality
Some fundraisers focus solely on profits, overlooking the quality of the wreaths they’re selling. Poor-quality products can turn off donors and damage your organization’s reputation, reducing chances of repeat sales.
Tip: Invest in high-quality wreaths that look fresh and attractive. Evergreen Industries’ wreaths, for example, are crafted with fresh greenery, ensuring that customers receive beautiful and long-lasting products.
4. Lacking Marketing Strategy
Relying solely on word-of-mouth can limit your reach and sales. Today’s customers respond to a variety of marketing strategies, from digital platforms to traditional methods like brochures and phone calls.
Tip: Use a mix of marketing techniques, including social media, email marketing, flyers, and in-person promotion at community events. Utilize Evergreen’s promotional materials and resources for added support.
5. Poor Order Tracking and Communication
A big mistake in wreath fundraisers is failing to track orders and maintain communication with supporters. This can lead to lost orders, delayed deliveries, and frustrated customers.
Tip: Invest in digital tools that allow you to manage orders efficiently. Simple spreadsheets can work, but dedicated fundraising management tools are even better as they offer real-time tracking and communication features.
6. Not Involving Participants in Goal-Setting
When only leaders set goals, participants may feel less ownership, impacting their enthusiasm and commitment. Getting your team—especially if they’re youth or community members—involved in goal-setting increases engagement and fosters teamwork.
Tip: Hold an initial meeting to discuss sales targets and get feedback from participants. Collaborative goal-setting gives everyone a stake in the outcome.
7. Missing Out on Community Partnerships
Local businesses and community leaders are often willing to support fundraisers, but many organizations miss this opportunity by not reaching out.
Tip: Partner with local businesses by asking them to sponsor your fundraiser or display your wreaths. You might be surprised by how many are willing to help by offering promotion or direct support.
8. Ignoring Post-Sale Engagement
A common mistake is forgetting about supporters once sales are complete. Building lasting relationships with donors can help ensure repeat sales in future fundraisers.
Tip: Send a thank-you note or small token of appreciation to supporters. Update them on your fundraising results and let them know how their contributions made a difference.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common mistakes can drastically improve your fundraising results and create a positive experience for both sellers and supporters. By planning carefully, setting achievable goals, focusing on product quality, and maintaining open communication with participants and donors, you’ll be well on your way to a successful wreath fundraiser.
Ready to start your wreath fundraiser? Download the Evergreen Industries Catalog to explore our high-quality wreath selection and learn how our products can help you meet your fundraising goals. With our beautiful, fresh wreaths and dedicated support, your fundraiser is set for success!
