06/21/2025
LONG POST BUT VERY IMPORTANT! VENDORS and GUESTS of UNLEASH THE HOLIDAY CHEER: We WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!!!!
This year is shaping up to be the largest and best UTHC event we've ever had, with added entertainment and fun for the whole family. We always add more each year, given the limited funding we have.
Many do not realize how much an event with grand experiences costs (that we don't have). i.e., most rental companies quote us between $10,000 and $14,000 just for the setup that Allie's Party Rentals helps us with: all tents, tables, and chairs for our Welcome Booth, Entertainment, Santa Area, and Military Appreciation Gift Shop. IT IS CRAZY!
Thankfully, we have been receiving a grant to cover a significant portion of the cost, and donors have sent us cash donations and in-kind donations, which we greatly we appreciate.
Our grant is usually not much more than that. We pay for every aspect, from the Parks and Rec Permit for park use, the Special Events Permit, along with all of the fees that come along with it, the decorations, rental for ALL entertainers (including the chunky old guy in a suit) photographers, and ALL of the Christmas gifts, crafts, giveaways, and free veterinary care vouchers, etc.
For the last two years, we've encountered some unexpected fees that appear well into the following year, which are not convenient if they cannot simply be charged to us before the event, like the rest of the fees. Additionally, there have been a few minor issues that have made hosting at NTC Park less enjoyable for Traci's Paws.
This year, we have the opportunity to move to Waterfront Park.
Now, there are a few things that will be different. Traci's Paws will be responsible for paying the county 10% of the revenue from all vendors, which will require additional work on our part to ensure each vendor provides a check to be submitted 20 days after the event. We charge significantly less for vendor participation than other events in San Diego County and have NEVER asked for a percentage of sales. We will be responsible if any vendors choose not to pay after attending.
But mostly, we know our vendors need to make money.
We will be required to pay for security, which is something we've never had to do before. However, increased safety and the presence of the San Diego County Sheriff are good things. We will not be required to use a specific business for services, which is a City requirement, creating more opportunities for us to work with other companies that potentially charge less (more money to the cause!), and we will pay less for an event space that has more activities for yall.
Knowing all of this, one thing remains unchanged.
We want this event to be the very best for all our vendors, our families, and, most of all, the military and veterans we support each year.
So, VENDORS and ATTENDEES, what are your thoughts on a move to Waterfront Park? We want to hear from you! We are very excited about this opportunity, but if it's not suitable for you and having it at the same location in NTC Park is better, we will do what is best.
Quick list of pros and cons:
PRO fewer hoops to jump through for permitting
PRO Less donation money going to park permits
PRO More money going to the cause and NOT the production
PRO Splash Pad
PRO Play Ground
PRO 4 picnic areas
PRO Giant Chess
PRO Concession Stand
PRO Closer Restrooms
CON Parking (but we know getting better acquainted with your public transportation system is a PRO!)
CON 10% of revenue requested from each vendor
Please take the 1 question surggvegy here, to help us decide.
Your response will be private.
Thank you!
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5Y3NQ8L
