Pros Vs. Pros Bow Tie Night

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

Every summer, Bay Head Yacht Club’s traditional Bubbles Show is kicked off the evening before with Bow Tie Night. Bow Tie Night encourages guests coming for dinner to dress in knee highs, Bermuda shorts, and bow ties in support of the BHYC Foundation. “Mr./Mrs. Anonymous” donates on behalf of those who dress for the occasion, and all of the funds raised for the Foundation are distributed to community members in need and through BHYC staff college scholarships. This year, the Club generated more excitement surrounding Bow Tie Night by bringing it not only to the Dining Room but also to the courts! The BHYC Director of Racquets Tyler Owens and Senior Professional Nico Yanicelli challenged two local tennis professionals to a battle on the courts, dressed to the nines in their knee highs, Bermuda socks, and bow ties. The event was umpired by the Foundation's current president (also an avid tennis player!). The event was promoted with fun, movie trailer-style Instagram Reels inviting members to join us for the “show.”

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

The movie trailer-style promotion was launched weeks before the event, creating a stir within the membership and building anticipation for the evening. On the day of the event, dozens of members crowded the viewing porches and the courts in excitement of Pros vs. Pros. The BHYC Tennis Pros were cheered on while putting on a show in their festive attire. The idea enhanced the Club by getting the members excited about Bow Tie Night and reminding them of its positive impact on the community and staff. The membership provided rave reviews of the event as it was fun for all to watch four extremely talented professionals play a friendly game for a good cause -- with plenty of trick shots! The majority of those who attended dressed in their own Bow Tie Night attire and joined us for dinner after continuing the BHYC tradition and supporting the BHYC Foundation.