As many of you know, I used to host the LA M and G's for a few years. since folks have started talking about hosting, below should give u an idea about what is involved. Obviously, this is a few years old but things haven't changed that much.
Thought I would give you some kind of idea about what goes into the planning of a M and G. As most of you know, I host the Los Angeles M and G's.
Venue: This is always the toughest for me. I try and find a venue that is affordable, large enough to accomodate 150-200 people, good parking and/or valet available, and is in a safe location. But most of all, privacy is an utmost concern and a requirement. I've hosted probably 10 parties and they have been anywhere from a large hotel suite to a private club. Some cities, LV for example, hold large parties in private homes. I have explored this option myself, but in LA, the cost is prohibitive.
When: From what I can gather, most parties are held during the week. For several reasons such as married guys typically cannot attend on a weekend, venue pricing is always more on a weekend (even later in the week), and generally attendees availability is better during the week than weekend. The exception is LV which typically has their parties on a weekend. I have found that Tuesday or Wednesday are the best days.
Getting the word out: Once you have a venue lined up and a date, you need to get the word out that a party is being planned. I think most of the M and G hosts have a master list of guys and gals who have attended or requested attendance to a prior M and G and/or who have passed screening. They typically will get an email from me requesting their attendance. I usually do that 2-3 times. Also weekly, the event is advertised on the M and G board as well as the city board where the party is taking place.
Screening: It is done by everyone. Everybody has their own techniques. I won't go much into it, but u need to have a process that is dependable and reliable.
Cost: Typically a donation is asked from the gents. Ladies always get in free. My parties are $40, but some are as high as $100-150. The cost parameters can vary based on the price of the venue, what you are offering (host bar, food, DJ, Parking, Door Prizes, etc). Sometimes there is an upfront cost required. That is borne by you the host.
Attendance: Always figure that out of your total attendance list, 50% will attend. Thats a good rule of thumb. My last party had an invite list of 260 with a final attendance of about 130. Additionally, always know the capacity of the venue so that you know what your limits are.
Lastly, always explain to your invitees regarding dress code and rules. Business should never be conducted at a M and G. If you hear of it, stop it immediately. This isn't the place for it.
Hope this helps. Oh, and BTW, there is a ton of stuff that happens in between. LOL. U'll find that out once you host.
