The location of the fundraiser should have adequate room for dancing. Dance music of the 1980s was a focal point of that era, and it can provide a cornerstone for a successful 1980s fundraiser. The more interactive the party is the better. Choose a venue space that is large enough for guests to dance, mingle and be seated at tables comfortably. Placing the dance space in the center is the best way to showcase it.
The invitations to the fundraiser should display the theme of the party designed as a 1980s calling card. Because one of the most important aspects of a 1980s fundraiser is the dress code, ask guests to wear 1980s fashions. Include photos with suggestions like neon parachute pants, leg warmers, short dresses, acid-washed jeans, leggings, sneakers and lace. A photo on the invitation can demonstrate this with over-the-top makeup like blue eyeshadow, fuchsia lipstick and false eyelashes. Suggested jewelry can include bangles, large plastic beads, earrings and other gaudy costume jewelry that was customary and prevalent during the 1980s. On the invitation, ask guests to let you know their favorite 1980s songs, and incorporate them into the music playlist.
The decorations for a 1980s fundraiser can be similar to those used for New Year's parties, like streamers and balloons. Brightly colored neon signs can showcase the purpose of the event. For a 1980s feel, put up posters of prominent bands from the 1980s, like Duran Duran and the Cure. Movie posters from the era can also be used, like one for "Ferris Bueller's Day Off." A disco ball or balloon style net above the center of the room will make the dance floor recognizable and inviting.
Dance contests, guessing games and photographs of guests are great activities to make the 1980s party fundraiser feel authentic. Digital camera photos can later be emailed to your guests as well as used to commemorate the party and advertise another one for the future. You can also send these photos to local media outlets to use as promotion, which can add to your fundraising efforts. Offering guests a party bag as they arrive, filled with fun souvenirs like colorful Rubik's cubes, day-glo colored bangles and sunglasses, can make everyone attending feel welcome.
During the 1980s, there were many music videos streamed at night clubs and on television stations like MTV. A screen with 1980s video displays can add a great deal to the ambiance of the party. Include plenty of dance tunes to engage your guests with songs by Madonna, Prince, Duran Duran, Michael Jackson, Wham!, Cyndi Lauper, the Cure, Guns 'n Roses and A Flock of Seagulls. Display Michael Jackson's "Thriller" to encourage a group dance activity. Some slower songs for couples should be mixed into the list, like those by Air Supply, for variety.