Large Historic Fundraising/ Gala Venue in in Long Beach

Fundraisers and galas are essential events for non-profit organizations, charities, and other entities seeking to raise funds and awareness for their causes. These events serve multiple purposes beyond the immediate financial benefits, including community engagement, donor recognition, and brand building. As such, the gala events tend to be showcase events where there are substantial investments in creating artistic or entertaining elements that tie in well with a black tie expectation. This then extends to a food/ beverage expectation that tends to involve a plated dinner, interesting drinks, thematic hors d'oeuvres, or otherwise high end chef-run stations.

The venue for a fundraiser generally needs to look the part - providing a high end ballroom, a beautiful outdoor setting, an elegant historic property, or some other fitting property that is also appropriate for a black tie affair.

When your organization needs to create a memorable fundraising event that inspires generosity and connection to your cause, the backdrop matters as much as the program. At 440 Elm, we understand that your gala isn't just an event—it's an opportunity to strengthen community bonds while raising crucial funds for your mission.

A Historic Gala Venue That Elevates Your Cause

Imagine your donors arriving at a Renaissance Revival landmark, built in 1913 by renowned architect Elmer Grey. As they step into our soaring Sanctuary with its 30-foot coffered ceilings, elegant chandeliers, and timeless architecture, they immediately sense this evening will be special. This isn't just another hotel ballroom—it's a space with character and history that highlights the importance of building beautiful, long-lasting institutions as a pillar of the community.

Our historic venue offers something increasingly rare: a beautiful blank canvas with architectural significance that adds gravitas to your event while allowing your organization's unique story to take center stage. The 7000 square foot Sanctuary accommodates up to 500 guests for a seated dinner, while our outdoor Plaza provides a stunning setting for cocktail receptions or silent auctions in the Long Beach coastal climate.

Creating Memorable Donor Experiences

Picture your major donors enjoying an intimate VIP reception in our exposed-brick Parlor, followed by a procession into the grand Sanctuary where program tables are elegantly set with custom linens and centerpieces that reflect your cause. Your executive director delivers a compelling address from our stage as guests enjoy a beautifully crafted meal served by attentive staff. Later, paddle-raising unfolds in an atmosphere of community and shared purpose, with donors inspired not just by your mission but by the evening's thoughtful execution.

Or perhaps you envision a more interactive format—guests moving through themed stations in our various spaces, each highlighting a different aspect of your work, with meaningful food pairings created by Bite Catering Couture that tell your organization's story through culinary experiences.

Understanding Your Fundraising Challenges

We've partnered with countless development directors and understand your key concerns:

• Balancing impressive donor experiences with responsible budget stewardship
• Creating an environment that encourages generosity without feeling overtly transactional
• Managing complex logistics (A/V, seating arrangements, donor recognition, program timing)
• Accommodating last-minute VIP guests or program changes
• Ensuring every detail reflects positively on your organization's professionalism

Our flexible approach and experienced team allow us to address these challenges proactively, giving you confidence that your event will run smoothly while maximizing donor engagement and financial outcomes.

Measuring Fundraising Success

We understand that successful galas balance multiple objectives:

• Financial Goals: Net funds raised after expenses
• Donor Cultivation: Creating meaningful touchpoints with major supporters
• Community Building: Strengthening connections among stakeholders
• Awareness: Broadening understanding of your mission
• Donor Retention: Creating an experience that encourages continued support

Our team works with you to understand your metrics for success and designs the venue experience, flow, and catering program to support those specific goals—whether that means maximizing time for networking, creating intimate spaces for major donor conversations, or developing showstopping moments that leave lasting impressions.

Technical Excellence for Flawless Programs

Your presentation and program elements deserve technical support that matches your preparation. Our venue offers:

• High-speed internet with 2gb broadband and numerous access points
• Complimentary in-house A/V basics or compatibility with specialized providers
• Multiple power sources throughout the venue, including a 50A connection inside the Sanctuary for LED screens or other high powered elements
• Flexible lighting options to create the perfect atmosphere

Beyond the Traditional Hotel Ballroom

As a non-hotel gala venue, 440 Elm offers distinct advantages:

• Exclusive use of our entire historic facility—no sharing space with other events
• Flexible timing for setup, especially valuable for complex decor installations
• Creative freedom to transform spaces without the constraints of hotel policies
• A woman-owned small business approach that prioritizes client service and flexibility