At the Little BIG House, every event is more than just a gathering—it’s a chance to fight loneliness, spark conversation, and build community. Whether you’re considering hosting, about to launch or up to your fiftieth gathering, our Hosts’ Guide for Best Practice Events is here to help you create experiences that are welcoming, engaging, and meaningful.

Why We Host

Our mission at the Little BIG Foundation is simple but powerful: to help Australians live happier, healthier, and kinder lives by feeling more connected to their neighbours and local community. Events at the Little BIG House are a key part of that mission. They help foster new friendships, spark meaningful conversations, and build the kind of social fabric that makes people feel at home.

So how do we make sure each event lives up to that goal? By focusing on four essential ingredients:

• Attendance – with a focus on local community members you’re more likely to bump into the face faces again
• Satisfaction – creating experiences that are fun, welcoming, and valued.
• Connection – encouraging interactions that lead to new friendships.
• Sharing – ensuring people return and try more than one event.

Before the Event: Plan for Connection

Start by thinking about how your event can help people connect. This is more than just logistics—it’s about atmosphere, tone, and intention. The Hosts’ Guide includes a Best Practice Planning Sheet to help you map this out. You’ll also find tips on everything from how to promote your event, to how to set up the room in ways that encourage conversation.

Top tips:

• Attend other Little BIG House events to see what works.
• Create a clear, memorable three-word name for your event. Keep it simple!
• Keep your event description short and welcoming—people can feel nervous trying something new.
• Check the website listing and help promote through Facebook, Instagram, flyers, and even the local chalkboard out front.

During the Event: Create a Welcoming Environment

When guests arrive, the magic begins. A friendly face at the door, a name tag, a warm greeting—these little touches make a big difference. As a host, your role is part facilitator, part connector.

What matters most:

• Wear your yellow bandana so guests know who to approach.
• Start with an Acknowledgment of Country.
• Run a light-hearted icebreaker and make sure everyone knows it’s okay to chat, mingle, or take a break.
• Track attendance using the digital sign-in—we use this data to report to funders and secure ongoing support.

After the Event: Keep the Connection Going

The event might be over, but the connection doesn’t have to be. Follow up with a thank-you message, share your next event date, and encourage attendees to try something new at the Little BIG House. A quick social media post or a shared photo in the Tribe WhatsApp chat helps spread the word and celebrates the impact you’ve made.

It’s About More Than Just an Event

What you’re creating is a moment of belonging—one that might just change someone’s day, week, or even life. Hosting is a big job, but you’re not alone. The Little BIG team is here with training, templates, support, and a community of fellow hosts cheering you on.

Thank you for being part of our mission. Together, we’re building something truly special.

Little moments, BIG smiles.