The summer season is finally here and now is the time to plan your event calendar. Events are an essential element of your overall amenity package. Today’s renters are choosing apartment communities to not only enjoy a convenient lifestyle but also for the social interaction. Events are also a great way for your management team to establish closer relationships with your residents, understand their needs, and build increased resident retention.
6 Summer Events to Boost Resident Retention
Here are six summer events to get your residents engaged with each other and the community. But keep in mind: You should still follow CDC social distancing guidelines and encourage residents to wear masks, even if outdoors.
Barbecues
Nothing speaks summer more than good old-fashioned barbecues. While you provide the staples, encourage residents to bring side dishes, desserts, and salads for sharing. Consider hiring a local band to entertain and offer raffle prizes provided by local vendors. Don’t forget to let residents invite their friends so they can experience your community in person. Word-of-mouth is a powerful marketing tool.
Pet-Friendly Events
If your community is pet-friendly, there is no better way to keep residents happy than by involving their best friends in events. Hosting a happy hour with cocktails and doggy treats is the perfect way for pet owners and pets to get acquainted with each other. And it doesn’t need to be Halloween to hold a costume party. After all, who doesn’t love photos of dogs wearing sunglasses?
Tropical Pool Party
Summer pool parties are a must. Why not host one with a tropical theme? Bring on the free leis, tiki torches, and Hawaiian shirts. Go the distance and hire outside caterers or a local restaurant to provide a tropical menu while you provide the decor and drinks. This is an awesome event to promote on your community social networks.
Sundae Sundays
Summer is all about cooling down with some refreshing drinks and, of course, ice cream. Pick a Sunday to host a build-your-own sundae event and offer some delicious, fresh summer strawberries. Include lots of toppings so your residents can really get creative. Add to the fun with some 50s music and a grand prize for the best sundae creation.
Community Garage Sale
As the decluttering trend continues, a community garage sale is a perfect event to help residents get rid of unwanted items and socialize with each other at the same time. By donating the proceeds to your favorite charity, you can gain a sense of goodwill with your residents and local neighborhood.
Food Truck Festival
Get residents and the local community together with a food truck festival. Since there is no need to cater, you can focus on the fun stuff. Consider inviting local entertainment to perform activities for the children. These types of events are a great way to market your community to prospective renters, so consider offering hourly tours of your best model suite or guest suite.
Bottom Line
No matter how terrific an event you have planned, you need to promote it to your residents. Beyond posting on your social media networks, think about flyers in the elevator, fitness center, and common room areas, as well as an email and newsletter announcement. Remember, a fun and engaging design will attract more residents to attend, share, and spread the word.
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