Designing Your Event Mix

Words of Wisdom

No single type of event works for everyone.

A successful Local Group offers a variety of ways to connect — in person and virtually, across different levels of commitment.

A strong event mix increases participation, reduces barriers, and helps more members feel included.

A strong event mix is not about doing more.

It’s about offering the right variety of opportunities so members can connect in ways that work for them.

What Success Looks Like

• Members can find something that fits their interests and schedule
• Both in-person and virtual options are available
• New members have easy entry points
• Participation reflects a range of engagement styles
• Events feel consistent, sustainable, and welcoming

Best Practices

Common Pitfalls

• Offering only one type of event (e.g., only dinners)
• Overloading the calendar with too many events
• Ignoring virtual or remote-friendly options
• Designing events only for already-active members
• Not providing clear entry points for new members

Purpose

Define an event mix so Local Groups can create a balanced, sustainable mix of activities that supports different member interests, engagement styles, and availability.

What Is an Event Mix?

Your event mix is the combination of:

• Types of activities (social, intellectual, virtual, etc.)
• Levels of engagement (low, medium, high)
• Formats (in-person and virtual)
• Timing and frequency

The goal is not more events — it’s the right mix of events.

Core Dimensions of a Strong Event Mix

Variety

Offer different types of activities so more members can find something that fits.

• Social, intellectual, creative, and experiential
• Structured and informal

See:

• Ideas for Local Group Activities

Engagement Levels

Provide options for different levels of commitment.

• Low (easy to join, minimal commitment)
• Medium (regular or interest-based participation)
• High (leadership, hosting, organizing)

See:

• Engagement Levels Overview

In-Person and Virtual Balance

Include both in-person and virtual opportunities.

• In-person builds deeper relationships
• Virtual expands access and flexibility

See:

• Supporting Virtual Engagement

Accessibility and Timing

Make it easier for members to attend.

• Vary days and times
• Consider travel distance and schedules
• Include low-effort options

Simple Planning Framework

When planning your event mix, ask:

• Who are we trying to reach? (new, remote, active, etc.)
• What engagement levels are we offering?
• Do we have both in-person and virtual options?
• Are there clear, low-barrier entry points?
• Does this add variety to what we already offer?

Example Balanced Monthly Mix

A simple, sustainable approach:

• 1 low-commitment activity (e.g., coffee, virtual hangout)
• 1 medium-engagement activity (e.g., book club, discussion)
• 1 social or group event (e.g., dinner, outing)
• 1 virtual option (can overlap with above)

This is a guideline — adapt based on your group’s size and capacity.

Start Small and Build

You don’t need a full calendar immediately.

• Start with 2–3 consistent events
• Add variety gradually
• Focus on what works
• Repeat successful formats

Consistency is more valuable than volume.

Related

Core Pages

• Local Group Events and Activities
• Member Engagement

Designing Activities

• Ideas for Local Group Activities
• Engagement Levels Overview

Supporting Access

• Supporting Virtual Engagement
• Supporting Remote Members

Planning and Execution

• Event Calendar Best Practices
• Local Group Event Channels and Platforms