Flat Rate vs Gate Share: Which Booking Model Is Right for You?

Introduction: Choosing the Right Fit

When planning a ticketed event, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is how to structure your booking. At World Crafters, we offer two flexible models—Flat Rate and Gate Share—each designed to suit the unique needs and goals of our partners.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between the two models and dive into the details of how we approach marketing for Gate Share events. Whether you’re focused on predictability or growth potential, this guide will help you decide which option is best for your farm or venue.

What is Flat Rate?

The Flat Rate model is perfect for partners who want a predictable cost structure and all-inclusive services.

How It Works:

  • You pay a fixed rate that covers shipping, setup, entertainment, management, and breakdown.
  • The event is fully turnkey, meaning we handle every detail so you can focus on delighting your guests.

Why Choose Flat Rate?

  • Budget Confidence: No surprises or fluctuations in cost.
  • Simplicity: A straightforward model ideal for established venues with consistent attendance for both regular seasons and special events. 
  • Full Control: You keep 100% of ticket revenue, giving you complete control over your profit margin.

Flat Rate is a great choice if you’re looking for reliability and peace of mind, with everything included from start to finish.

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What is Gate Share?

The Gate Share model is designed for partners who want to minimize upfront costs and maximize their event’s growth potential.

How It Works:

  • Upfront costs are significantly lower and credited back through ticket revenue.
  • Ticket revenue is shared (typically a 50/50 split), ensuring a partnership built on shared success.

Why Choose Gate Share?

  • Low Risk: Minimal upfront costs make it easier to get started.
  • Revenue Potential: Shared success means we’re equally invested in driving ticket sales and maximizing attendance.
  • Proven Marketing Support: Our full suite of marketing capabilities is included to ensure your event’s success.

How We Market Gate Share Events

Marketing is the backbone of a successful Gate Share event, and at World Crafters, we execute data-driven campaigns designed to maximize ticket sales and grow your audience.

Here’s how we do it:

Our strategy focuses on identifying the winning audience based on the cost per ticket sale and determining the winning ad creative based on the click-through rate. Once we optimize the best ad sets and ad creatives, we scale the ad budget to maximize ticket sales—all while leveraging META (Facebook and Instagram) to engage attendees and attract new followers to your social pages.

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Phases of the Digital Campaign

Our marketing plan is divided into three key phases, with the first two overlapping to maximize testing and optimization:

  1. RSVP Lead Generation (5 months out – 1 month out)
    In this phase, we generate excitement and build an audience of potential attendees. Ads are crafted to encourage RSVPs or sign-ups, creating a pool of engaged users interested in the event. This initial audience lays the foundation for future ticket sales.
  2. Early Bird Ticket Sales (5 months out – 2 months out)
    During this overlapping phase, we transition to promoting early bird ticket sales. By offering exclusive discounts and specials, we drive urgency and incentivize initial purchases.
    Optimization in Action:
    • These two phases are where most of our testing takes place, allowing us to refine ad targeting and creative elements.
    • By carefully tracking META’s algorithms, we ensure that budgets are scaled at the right time and in the right amounts, optimizing performance and cost efficiency.
    • Our primary goal during this period is to drive initial awareness, refine the target audience, and generate momentum through early bird sales.
  3. Last Chance Ticket Sales (2 months out – last day of the event)
    As the event date approaches, we create a sense of urgency with last-chance campaigns. These ads target users who have interacted with earlier content but haven’t yet purchased tickets. Retargeting strategies use curated messages to re-engage these users and convert them into buyers.

Why It Works
By tracking cost-per-ticket sale and click-through rates in real-time, we ensure every dollar spent is optimized for maximum return. This approach not only generates awareness but also creates a seamless journey from interest to purchase, driving attendance and revenue for your event.

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Conclusion

Ask yourself these questions to determine which model is right for you:

  • Do you want a straightforward cost structure with predictable expenses and full ownership of ticket revenue?
    → Choose Flat Rate.
  • Are you looking to reduce upfront costs and leverage expert marketing support to maximize attendance?
    → Choose Gate Share.
  • Are you hosting your first event and want a collaborative, low-risk way to test its potential?
    → Choose Gate Share.
  • Do you already have a strong following and want to manage all ticket sales independently?
    → Choose Flat Rate.
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What’s Next? Let’s Find the Right Model for You

Whether you choose the reliability of Flat Rate or the growth potential of Gate Share, World Crafters is here to ensure your event is a success. Our team is ready to help you craft an unforgettable experience that brings joy to your guests and value to your venue.

Spots for 2025 are limited, and planning early ensures you get your preferred dates, themes, and booking model. Contact us today to discuss your goals and let’s create something extraordinary together!

For detailed pricing, payment schedules, and what’s included with each FEST theme, please visit the Dino Fest, Fable Fest, and Ocean Fest pages.

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