Designing Your Event Mix
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:
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:
In-Person and Virtual Balance
Include both in-person and virtual opportunities.
- In-person builds deeper relationships
- Virtual expands access and flexibility
See:
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.