This holiday season, private clubs can elevate member experiences by incorporating insights from Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara. From empowering staff to personalize interactions to creating “magic moments” that surprise and delight, clubs can enhance their holiday offerings in memorable ways. Guidara’s lessons on radical generosity and meaningful connection offer inspiration for clubs to make each member feel truly valued and at home, fostering a festive season filled with warmth and community.
Category: feature
The Princeton Club in New York City, a historic refuge for Ivy League alumni, shuttered in October 2021 due to declining membership and financial struggles. Modernization efforts aimed at attracting younger members, such as adding a co-working space and a contemporary lounge, never took off, leaving the club’s future uncertain after foreclosure. This situation reflects a broader trend where traditional Ivy League clubs, once epitomes of prestige, now struggle to appeal to younger alumni who prefer the amenities of modern private clubs like Soho House and Zero Bond. The pandemic worsened their plight, cutting off vital revenue streams, while recent campus activism further alienated younger members. Despite attempts to adapt with relaxed dress codes and new events, these clubs face an uncertain future if they fail to rejuvenate their memberships. For a deeper dive into the transformation and challenges faced by these iconic institutions, read the full article on The Wall Street Journal.
Private members clubs are the heartbeat of community and connection, fostering bonds among kindred spirits. These sanctuaries of shared passions operate as 501(c)(7) non-profits, drawing sustenance from membership dues to offer an array of exclusive perks. In fact, a 2019 National Club Association study unveiled that a remarkable 60% of private country clubs in the USA proudly wear the 501(c)(7) badge. Yet, the art of enticing potential members while treading the fine line of non-profit sanctity is a delicate dance. The IRS provides a guiding light: “501(c)(7) organizations may flaunt their activities and the joys of membership, but direct pleas for contributions are a strict no-go.” So, we set forth on a journey through this article, unraveling the secrets to promote membership allure while staying firmly within the bounds of non-profit ethics. From the magic of social media wizardry to crafting captivating websites, from hosting enchanting open houses to deploying marketing wizardry – we’ll explore it all, ensuring that the allure of membership is never compromised by the call for contributions.