Custom Plinko style game shines at HEY Children’s University ball

At Sowden & Sowden, we pride ourselves on our ability to deliver creativity that makes an impact

When HEY Children’s University CEO, Rose James approached us with a unique request for their “Time to Shine” ball, we knew this was an opportunity to do something extraordinary.

The charity needed an interactive game for their fundraiser that was engaging, visually impressive, and capable of helping to boost donations on the night. 

The team got to work, and what followed was a labour of love that took hundreds of man-hours from concept to completion. From initial designs to the final build, the bespoke Plinko machine was crafted entirely in-house by our talented team; led by Art Director, Chris Dimmack; conceptualised by Senior Creative Lead, Steve; and seamlessly managed by Client Services Manager, Rubes. 

Meeting the HEY Children’s University needs

The charity needed a centrepiece for their fundraising event that would attract attention and encourage guests to engage. With 300 business leaders attending the event at the DoubleTree Hilton, the goal was to create something that would help raise funds in a fun, memorable way. 

The Plinko pinball-style game was pitched as the perfect solution – a lively, interactive way for guests to donate while adding an element of excitement to the evening. 

The brief was clear: the game needed to be fun, large-scale, visually appealing, and transportable, oh, and it needed to light up – of course! Chris and the team began by conceptualising and pitching several concepts, from a jumbo drop game to a spinning wheel. Ultimately, the charity chose the Plinko concept, and the real work began. 

Crafting the vision to make it a reality 

From a blank piece of paper, the team sketched out a design that was entirely bespoke for HEY Children’s University. Every element was custom-built in our workshop, with special attention given to materials, portability, weight, and game dynamics. The machine had to be lightweight, easy to transport, and durable enough to be reused at future events. 

Crafting all the 3D components, the team engineered the machine to be both a visual spectacle and a perfectly functioning game. It was designed with both high and low chances of winning, ensuring the excitement lasted throughout the night while managing the limited number of prizes available. 

Rose James, Chief Executive Officer, HEY Children’s University, said: 

“We had attempted to create our own make-shift fundraising games for each of our past events but this took a great deal of time and resource. I knew that investing in a bespoke game that we could use for any event would be the best way forward and Sowdens were the first people to come to mind as we had seen some of their creations at other events.

“They listened to our vision and went above and beyond to bring it to life. We are so happy with how it turned out – our expectations were high but this exceeded them. We are so grateful to the Sowdens team for all of their hard work to create this one-of-a-kind game.”

The result? A night to remember 

On the night of the ball, the game played a part in helping raise a total of over £11,000an impressive figure that far exceeded the charity’s expectations. Guests flocked to the machine, paying £10 for two chances to win, with many coming back for multiple turns. 

It was fun, engaging, and contributed significantly to the evening’s fundraising success.

Sustainability beyond the event 

What’s particularly special about this project is that it’s not a one-time piece. The game was designed with future events in mind. It’s fully customisable, and graphics can be updated to fit different themes or purposes, ensuring the charity gets years of use out of it. 

It’s a perfect example of how we at Sowden & Sowden focus on delivering value, not just for the immediate moment but for the long term.

Our Co-owner and Director, Polly Sowden, comments: 

“This project highlights what sets Sowden & Sowden apart. Our ability to create unique, custom installations from scratch is unmatched. We don’t rely on off-the-shelf solutions; we create something truly bespoke for each client.

“From concept and design, to build and delivery, every step of the process is handled in-house, ensuring quality and creativity at every turn. I’m so proud of the way our team comes together for these projects, I can’t think of any agency that can create a completely bespoke design, structure and manufacture from concept to completion – and have such fun doing it!”

Take a closer look at the Super Star Plinko project, or check out our portfolio of award-winning events that have left lasting impressions.

If you’re looking for something truly unique for your next marketing challenge, get in touch. Let us turn your vision into reality. 

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