Nothing beats a hot cuppa and a slice of cake, especially when it's for a good cause. Wildlife Garden Get Together events are not only a great way to showcase your green thumb, but also an opportunity to raise money for your local Trust. Here are some ways to maximise your fundraising efforts at your event.  

Donations at the Gate 

Asking for a minimum donation at the gate is a popular way to raise funds. Hosts generally suggest a minimum donation of £4 per person, but you can suggest more or less depending on the size of your garden. Keep afloat handy in case change is needed. For those who no longer carry cash, consider setting up an online fundraising page, you can read our guide here. 
 

Wildlife Walk and Talk 

Set up a wildlife walk and talk around your garden, where you can share your knowledge of the different plants and animals that call your garden home. You can ask for a minimum donation for the walk and talk, and you could even create a wildlife quiz for guests to participate.  
 

Bake Sale 

Everyone loves a cuppa and a slice of cake, especially when it’s for a good cause. Ask your guests to make a donation in return for their refreshments. If you’re hosting a bigger event, you might want to ask your local supermarket or farm shop to donate some cakes that you can sell. Alternatively, why not ask your local church or community group to get involved and ask if they will host a bake sale at the event to help raise funds. Bonus tips: 

• Freezing homemade cakes ahead of your event can also save time. 
• Have some biodegradable takeaway containers on hand so you can sell leftover cake towards the end of the day. 
   

Plant Sale 

Selling plants is a fantastic way to attract guests to your garden and boost your fundraising efforts. Some hosts sell plants and cuttings from their own gardens, while others write to local garden centres and nurseries who often donate plants. For larger events, some garden centres might prefer to hold their own stall at your event. In which case, ask them to donate either a percentage of sales or a minimum of £20. Keep in mind that stallholders ran by a business must hold their own public and product liability insurance. 
 

Host a workshop 

From bird box building to wreath making, we have some great guides where you and your guests can learn how to make something to help local wildlife. You could ask for a small fee to participate. Not only will this activity be fun, but it's also a practical way to support wildlife. 
 

Tombolas and raffles  

Consider running a raffle or tombola to add some excitement to your event. You could ask local businesses to donate prizes, such as a voucher for a local restaurant or tickets to a local attraction, or you could even shift those unwanted Christmas gifts. There are a couple of things you need to be aware of.   

You must ensure:  

• Both ticket sales and the draw take place on the day or your event  
• All tickets must cost the same - you can’t sell five £1 tickets for £4  
• children under 16 must not sell or buy tickets, and if alcohol is one of your prizes the minimum age must be 18 years.  
   

Hosting a Garden Get Together event is a fun and rewarding way to raise money. By including these different fundraising strategies, you'll be able to maximise your donations and make a real difference.