Successful businesses and non-profit organizations typically have one thing in common: they are engaging with their customers.

Four event-minded speakers will be part of a panel discussion on “Creating Win-Win Events for Your Business (or non-profit) at the Washington Business Improvement District’s next Lunch ‘N Learn on Thursday Sept. 12. The luncheon, which begins at 11:45 a.m., will be held at Enzo’s Pasta Grill, Route 57, Washington.

The four speakers include Annamaria Lalevee from the Warren Arc, Ellen Perkins from Gaia’s Gifts, Magda Brown from Empanada Mamasita, and Anne Boie from the Washington Candy Closet. Lalevee will speak to the non-profit side of event planning while Perkins, Brown and Boio will concentrate on retail events including special activities, sales and other unique approaches.

This format includes comments from each of the speakers, followed by a group discussion and questions and answers. 

“There are many ways to plan and promote business and non-profit events,” said Melanie Thiel, Executive Director of the Washington BID. “You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars. By strategically coming up with an idea and then executing you can be very successful. Our panel will cite various events they’ve been involved with to get your thinking caps going in planning your own events.”

Cost of the luncheon is $15 per person in advance, $20 at the door. To register go to www.washingtonbid.org. For more information email admin@washingtonbid.org or call 908-689-4800.