An op-shop ball is a fun way to raise funds for your group or school. It promotes sustainable practices by encouraging the re-use of clothes and accessories and potentially saves money while raising funds for your cause.
An Op-Shop Ball is a ball (or dinner, quiz night or other event) where guests must only wear items of clothing purchased from a second-hand or op shop. Nothing is considered too outrageous or off-limits. In fact, the more outrageous the better.
Who is an op-shop ball suitable for?
Op-shop balls are perfect for senior high school students (Year 10 and above), sporting clubs, charities and community groups.
What are some Op-Shop Ball themes?
The 1980s
70s disco
Wedding
Retro
Country & Western
Steampunk
Your Favourite Movie/Movie Star
1960s/Hippies
Black and White
Space/Aliens
Fluorescent
How do you raise money from an Op-Shop Ball?
You can sell tickets as you would normally, but you can also ask people to donate the money they ‘saved’ buying their outfit second-hand rather than purchasing new outfits.
Extra funds can be raised by having concurrent fundraisers such as raffles, a silent or live auction, and selling food and drink. Ice-breaker games are also a great way to get the night started while raising extra money.
You can also ask for donations and sponsorship from local businesses. Find out how here.
Why are Op-Shop Balls fun?
Much of the fun is had in the lead-up to the event, as people head out to op-shops to find their perfect outfit. If you create an event page, you can encourage people to post their outfits on the page, or share great op-shop locations around the city.
It’s natural that people go to a lot of effort for balls and special events, and an Op-Shop Ball still allows this, but also allows people to spend considerably less on their outfits, while supporting local op-shop charities at the same time.