3 Ways to Perfect Your Major Donor Strategy—Just Like Homemade Eggnog

Gail's Killer Egg Nog2024

This post was originally written in December of 2024 and updated by Gail Perry Group on 12/16/2025.

When it comes to closing major and transformational gifts, it’s a lot like making the perfect batch of homemade eggnog. 

Both take patience, balance, and the comfort of a tried-and-true recipe. As we head into the holiday season, consider these three tips to help you whip up major donor relationships that are smooth, rich, and truly satisfying.

1. Take Your Time


Eggnog needs time to sit and “cure” overnight, and major donor relationships are no different.

You can’t rush the process. And you shouldn’t try.

Give your donors the space they need and nurture those connections at their own pace. Patience today leads to generous, heartfelt gifts tomorrow.

2. Find the Right Mix of Ingredients


A good Eggnog calls for just the right balance of eggs, sugar and milk. The same goes for crafting the appropriate mix of donor cultivation activities. 

Your recipe may call for private invitations, sincere acknowledgement, finding out the donor story, and opening up a gift conversation at the right time. 

Adjust as needed to find that perfect mix of outreach and engagement that feels just right to your donor.

A good eggnog depends on the right balance of eggs, sugar, and milk.
Major gift work also depends on balance.

Your mix might include private invitations.
Sincere acknowledgment.
Learning the donor’s story.
And opening a gift conversation at just the right moment.

There’s no single formula that works for every donor.
Pay attention.

Adjust as needed to find that perfect mix of outreach and engagement that feels just right to your donor.

Find out how we can help you achieve your fundraising goals with world-class consulting and custom training.

Partner with us.

3. Trust the Classic Recipe


Some recipes last because they work.
The same is true in major gift fundraising.

Focusing on what the donor truly cares about.
Building on their interests.
Putting their needs first.

These approaches have stood the test of time for a reason.

When you stay grounded in these fundamentals, results follow.
And they’re results worth celebrating.

BOTTOM LINE:

Like a treasured family recipe passed down through generations, a classic approach to major gift relationships will create generous, lasting support. 

Here’s to a season filled with warmth, goodwill, and major donors who give with all their hearts.

RESOURCES

As always, it is a pleasure to share our weekly insights with you, covering important fundraising strategies. 

If your organization is planning a capital campaign or expanding your major gifts program, we can help.

Send an email to capitalcampaigns@gailperry.com if you’d like to schedule a free strategy call with us.