We’ve compiled some tips to help you plan your VBS up to 6 months in advance!
4-6 MONTHS BEFORE VBS
PRAY
Pray for VBS 2018; the planning, the volunteers, and the children and families who will be participating.
EVALUATE LAST YEAR
Determine what worked before and what can be improved upon. Consider talking to people at other churches who have done it before.
ORDER A KIT
Start by ordering a kit. With Concordia Supply you get to take advantage of our generous 90 day review period for Starter Kits. Get your hands on a couple, and dive into the features of each one. They are totally returnable.
2-3 MONTHS BEFORE VBS
BUDGET & FUNDRAISING
Once you have your Starter Kit in hand, you will be better prepared to make a budget. Also start planning any fundraising efforts as necessary.
PICK A DATE & PROMOTE
Pick your date and order your publicity materials first (banners, postcards, posters). The sooner you spread the word, the more families you can reach.
PLACE INITIAL STOCK ORDER
Please order early to guarantee stock of popular items, particularly the items like student materials (books, buddies, crafts, etc) and decorations. Estimate the number of students you expect and you can add on later.
1 MONTH BEFORE VBS
RECRUIT & TRAIN
You probably have some names in mind already to help, but make sure to confirm with your key volunteers and leaders. Have some meetings to help prepare your team for VBS.
REVIEW YOUR SUPPLIES
Review & purchase additional supplies as needed.
1-2 WEEKS BEFORE VBS
DECORATE
Use ideas for décor from your decorating guides or from our Pinterest boards.
KEEP PRAYING
Continue praying and meet with leaders to go over last minute details, such as times and places to meet each day. Put together classes or crews based on pre-registration.
DURING VBS
BE THERE
Continue registration to bring in more kids, continue praying with and for volunteers and leaders.
HAVE FUN
Have some fun with the kids. There could be children at VBS who are experiencing church for the first time. Make it memorable!
AFTER VBS
HIGHLIGHT
Keep your decorations up for Sunday service to show the church what went on. Make a video or slideshow.
EVALUATE
Spend some time with your VBS Staff and decide what went well and what needs improvement for next year while it’s fresh on your mind.
FOLLOW-UP
It could have been the first impression of your church, so get in touch with visitors and families who came to your VBS.
