Honoring a Legacy
Zoo Ball is the Fort Worth Zoo’s largest fundraiser, and every year Schaefer develops a creative concept for the theme that surprises and delights donors. This year marked the 40th anniversary—a milestone that needed to feel both celebratory of the Zoo Ball legacy and reflective of four decades of impact, while still delivering an unexpected creative twist.
A Concept Worth Celebrating
Schaefer spotlighted the anniversary itself—using the Roman numeral “XL” for 40, entwined with a snake illustration on a chartreuse background, that brought energy, excitement, and attention to the Zoo’s animals. The approach balanced commemoration with fresh, tactile design that stood apart from years prior.
Unfolding the Magic
- This year, the Save the Date was an unfolded 8.5×11 piece, which made an immediate statement in the mail.
- The Invitation elevated the milestone with foil, soft touch, and spot gloss finishes mimicking snake scales, creating a refined, tactile experience.
- The microsite and auction guide carried the theme throughout, ensuring a cohesive journey for donors.
Impact in Every Detail
The 40th anniversary suite captured attention, celebrated “40 Wild Years,” and set a new creative benchmark. Guests were wowed by the intricate finishes and bold, celebratory design—proof of our ability to evolve Zoo Ball’s look and feel year after year.
