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Hybrid Event

A Hybrid Event in BetterUnite is an in-person fundraising event that also includes a Live Stream for virtual attendees. There is no separate “Hybrid Event” module — instead, you simply create a standard Event and activate the Live Streaming component. All other event setup steps remain the same as an in-person event. Both your in-person and virtual guests use the same BetterUnite guest experience, auctions, and donation tools.

How Hybrid Events Work in BetterUnite

  1. Click Start in your BetterUnite account

  2. Create an Event

  3. Enable Live Streaming

  4. Configure tickets, communications, and guest experience as needed

Pro Tips for Hybrid Events

Test Everything (Then Test Again)

Before promoting your event:

  • Complete a test ticket purchase or registration (Use the steps in Test your Event)

  • Review the Guest Experience Page

  • Preview your Silent Auction

  • Test your Live Stream using the preview/testing tools or a copied test event

👉 Recommended reading: Live Stream Event Testing

Practice Guest Check-In

Practice using Guest Check-In ahead of your event so staff are confident.

For events with live auctions or paddle raises:

  • Provide the MC/Auctioneer with a monitor showing the Manage Auction and Item Live View pages

  • Assign a separate staff member to advance online bids

  • Use the Item Live View to track and log bids in real time

Screenshot 2026-01-13 at 8.20.47 AM

Screenshot 2026-01-13 at 8.20.14 AM

 

Event Setup Overview

Basics

When setting up your event:

  • Enter the event date and time (this controls reminder emails)

  • Add your physical location

  • Enable Live Streaming (can be added later for testing)

  • Use Show Placeholder so virtual guests know where to go before the stream begins

👉 Helpful links:

Content

Use the Content section to set expectations for both audiences:

  • What in-person guests can expect

  • How virtual guests will participate

  • Sponsor logos, images, or videos

Tickets for Hybrid Events

Hybrid events often benefit from clearly defined ticket options:

  • In-Person Tickets (tables, individual seats)

  • Virtual Tickets (individual or group / house party style)

Additional tips:

  • Create a hidden, free ticket with an access code for virtual sponsors

  • Toggle ON the Bidder Registration Options online only bidding if your silent auction is open to the public

👉 Learn more: Creating Event Tickets

Communications & Reminders

Clear communication is critical for hybrid events.

Best practices: 

  • Keep Event Reminder emails and texts enabled (especially for virtual guests) and include information for both types of guests

If using paid Text Messaging, customize your Ticket Purchase text to reinforce:

“Whether you attend in person or via live stream, your Guest Experience page is where you’ll bid, donate, and watch the event.”

Guest Experience Settings

Recommended settings for hybrid events:

  • Leave the credit card preauthorization at checkout option on

  • Change Guest Link Visibility to (Upon Purchase)

Checkout Options

  • Require Phone Number at checkout so guests receive text messages

  • For group tickets, review Guest Requirements

  • Use Custom Fields if additional guest details are needed

Event Offers, Raffles & Tickers

  • Event Offers & Giving Levels work the same for hybrid events

  • Raffles can be filtered by ticket type if needed

  • Scrolling Banner Tickers are highly recommended to:

    • Announce start times

    • Direct guests to the live stream

    • Share reminders before and during the event

Auctions in Hybrid Events

  • Silent Auctions use the same interface for all guests

  • Use Exclusive Auctions if certain items are restricted by ticket type

  • Hybrid Live Auctions require practice to manage online and in-room bids smoothly

👉 Recommended reading:

Managing Your Hybrid Event

From the Manage Event Dashboard, you can:

  • Monitor Event Insights in real time

  • Send targeted messages with paid Text Messaging

  • Manage tables, teams, and guest check-in

Need Additional Help?

We're here to assist you in any way we can. Don't hesitate to reach out to support@betterunite.com

Let's go do some good.