Planning and hosting a poker night or tournament is a fun, engaging, and unique way to raise money for charity, build morale with coworkers, network with customers and other professional connections, or simply spend quality time with family and friends. No matter how often your event recurs, a poker tournament can be a night to remember when done right, for newbies and card sharks alike. Even those who typically don’t gamble will find something to enjoy at a well-planned poker night.
The key to hosting a successful poker night or tournament is planning. From invitations to custom poker chips and extra entertainment, this guide will give you the keys to throwing a successful night;
Send Out an Actual Invitation
In a world of digital communication, you might be tempted to post an invite online or via instant message. However, these are low engagement channels and people generally aren’t invested in attending events they find on Facebook. Instead, send an invite to each person on your guest list. Preferably you would send it by mail, but a personalized email will suffice.
Make sure your invite has the following information:
- Date and start time
- Location, including address
- Parking or relevant public transportation information
- Dress code (yes, you want a dress code)
- Ticket price or buy-in, if applicable
- If they can bring a guest
- What food and drinks will be provided
- RSVP request
Sending a reminder a week before the poker night is a good idea for anyone who forgot or might need to cancel.
Custom Poker Chips to Match Your Theme
Some of the best parties are theme nights and a poker tournament is no different. Elevate the experience by customizing your poker chips so they’re on theme. Choose your colors and add your logo, initials, or the event’s date. The sky’s the limit as long as it fits on a poker chip.
When personalizing your chips, you have three materials to choose from:
- Clay: Clay is the old-school poker chip material. It’s been used at casinos for generations. However, they’re less durable and are easier to chip.
- Ceramic: Ceramic is generally the preferred poker chip material. Ceramic is durable, smooth, and very easy to customize. However, it’s usually the most expensive material.
- Composite: Clay composite is the cheapest and most durable option, making it ideal for home poker games.
After the event, these custom poker chips will be a fun souvenir for your guests to take home with them.
Set a Dress Code
Setting a dress code is the best way to make sure your theme has that “wow” factor. Whether you want an old-school glam or modern chic feel, the night will feel more special if people have to get dressed up for it.
Dress codes typically mean a collared shirt and jacket for men and cocktail dresses or fancy blouses for women. Just be upfront and specific about the dress code in your invitations and reinforce it in your reminder email.
Get Entertainment for the Next Level
While poker is a fun and entertaining way to spend an evening, your event will truly be over the top if you provide other entertainment options. Hiring a live musician will add a touch of sophistication to the event and allow your non-gambling guests to enjoy the ambiance without joining a game. Close-in magicians will really wow your guests if your budget allows for them.
While every poker night or tournament will be slightly different, the four guidelines above will help you plan out a spectacular evening. With personalized invitations, themed poker chips, a fun dress code, and live entertainment, you’ll have all the pieces you need to organize an event to remember.