How to make a VIP section at your movie night

🎬 Why You Need a VIP Section at Your School Movie Night (and How to Make It Shine)

Looking for a fun, low-effort way to add some sparkle (and extra dollars) to your school movie night? Say hello to the VIP section – your ticket to more fundraising, happy students, and a memorable event.

Whether you’re hosting an outdoor movie under the stars or transforming the school hall into a cinema, creating a VIP experience adds a touch of excitement -  and a whole lot of fundraising potential.

🌟 What is a Movie Night VIP Section?

Think of it as the best seat in the house. A VIP area at your school movie night is a designated, premium space with perks. You can sell tickets at a higher price, use it as a reward for student achievements, or even offer it up as a raffle prize or silent auction item.

It’s the kind of small detail that can make your movie night feel like a major event - and make your fundraiser more profitable.

💡 Why Offer a VIP Experience?

Here’s why rolling out the red carpet is a brilliant idea:

• 🎟️ Boost your fundraising: VIP tickets can be sold at a higher price, often bundled with snacks or extras.

• 🏆 Recognise student efforts: Use VIP access to reward students who’ve gone above and beyond - top fundraisers, most improved, best team player… the list goes on.

• 🤝 Create sponsor value: Offer a business the chance to sponsor the VIP section. Think branded cushions, banners, or exclusive popcorn tubs with their logo.

• 🚨 Encourage early ticket sales: Limited VIP spots can create FOMO and drive faster bookings.

• ✨ Add excitement and exclusivity: Everyone loves a velvet rope moment - especially the kids.

🎥 What Should Your VIP Section Include?

📍 Location, Location, Location

Choose the best vantage point - which might not always be directly in front of the screen. Consider sightlines, sound, and distance. Mark it off with bollards and rope, or go all-out with a red carpet entrance. Fairy lights, signage, and a private entry path will instantly set the VIP mood.

🛋️ Luxe Seating Options

Don’t settle for picnic rugs when you can create an outdoor cinema worthy of Hollywood (or at least Hollywood Heights Primary).

• Beanbags

• Inflatable lounges

• Air mattresses

• DIY cinema seats (check out Not Just A Housewife for a clever pallet-style project - build once, use every year)

• Inflatable kiddie pools filled with cushions and pillows - yep, that’s a thing, and it’s brilliant

🍿 Food & Drink Perks

You’ll likely be selling popcorn, lollies, and drinks to the crowd, but VIP guests should feel like they’re getting something extra.

Ideas include:

• Mini lolly buffet for VIPs only. Here's some tips and tricks to help you.

• Bottomless popcorn refills

• Access to a fridge/freezer for unlimited drinks and choc tops (a borrowed camping fridge works wonders)

• A mini picnic box pre-packed with goodies

• A drinks caddy or tray service on standby

🧑‍✈️ Butler Service (Yes, Really)

Want to turn the VIP dial up to eleven? Assign a “butler” to the VIP area. They can:

• Take snack orders

• Bring drinks and treats

• Fluff pillows or adjust blankets

• Even offer a cheeky neck massage before the movie starts (depending on who's volunteering - we see you, Principal Dave)

Hint: Get your school principal, P&C president, or club captain to don a bowtie and play along. It’s a crowd-pleaser.

🚗 Valet Parking

If parking’s tricky at your school or club, give your VIPs access to:

• The staff car park

• Drop-off at the front gate

• A full valet parking service (student leaders or older kids can play valet with supervision)

Not only is it practical - it makes the experience feel extra exclusive.

🎟️ How to Use VIP Tickets

Here are a few simple ways to introduce the VIP option:

• Sell VIP tickets in advance: Include all the perks - snacks, seating, and something sparkly (even just a glow stick crown).

• Bundle as raffle prizes: Great incentive for pre-event fundraising.

• Use as student rewards: Perfect for end-of-term recognition, or to celebrate positive behaviour and effort.

• Create family passes: “Family VIP Packs” can include premium seating for four, snacks, glow products and early access.

📣 Final Tips from the Fundraising Whisperer

• It’s all in the experience: People pay for how it feels. Make it magical.

• Keep it simple: You don’t need to go over the top. A few thoughtful touches go a long way.

• Promote with purpose: Use terms like “limited access,” “exclusive lounge,” or “premium movie experience” in your marketing to build buzz.

• Take photos for next year: Snap those red carpet moments - they’re great for newsletters, social media, and future event promos.

🍿 Wrap-Up

A VIP section isn’t just a nice add-on - it’s a savvy fundraising tool, a feel-good reward system, and a way to create memories that last long after the credits roll.

So go ahead - add a little glitter to your next movie night fundraiser. Your community will love it (and your treasurer will too).