If you're new to charity auctions or new to working with auctioneers, you might be unsure of how to go about finding and selecting a benefit auctioneer. Here are six steps auction planners can use to not just survive the selection process, but actually enjoy the conversations. #1: Locate some benefit auctioneers If you're starting from a blank slate, visit the National Auctioneers Association website and use their "Find an Auctioneer" search tool. Auctioneers with a "BAS" (Benefit ... Read On >
Benefit Auctions Blog
Review of Boothomatic for silent auctions
I read an article from BizBash magazine entitled "The Photo Booth That Can Capture the Whole Party." It talks about a new portable photo-booth -- AKA, the Boothomatic-- which rolls around the party, enabling guests to take photos wherever they might be. After reading the short article and checking out the photo, here are my off-the-cuff thoughts as to whether the Boothomatic would work in silent auctions. Designed for the younger set My immediate thought is that this is something for a ... Read On >
Auction themes play to underwater mysteries with Treasures of the Deep
My team and I worked an event in southern Virginia which was one of the most attractive and creative auction themes I've attended. It wasn't a large audience -- the crowd only numbered around 225 -- but the decor and atmosphere was exquisite! It was one of the more magical auctions I've attended. The theme was Treasures of the Deep. All things of underwater intrigue could be found here. The dark, mysterious, quiet of the ocean seemed to come alive in this fitness facility (not that you could ... Read On >
Silent auction items could include a sleigh ride
With the winter solstice this week and snow in the forecast, we're in the heart of winter. If it feels like a sleigh ride might be on your "to do" activity list this season, don't forget to ask for a donation! Here are a some pointers around procuring a sleigh ride for your silent auction. Always ask. Spring and summer auction teams might not yet have the "procurement mindset" and may fail to remember to ask for a donation, even as they enjoy the sleigh ride with their own family. Don't be ... Read On >
Happy Birthday, Scott!
Attention readers. Though I'm usually writing about being a benefit auctioneer Virginia, today's blog is personal. (Click to another blog to read auction tips.) Once a year, my brother Scott makes the trek from Iowa to D.C. to attend a work conference. It's always in May. It's always in the city. And it always means he and I get some enjoy some cool sibling time at a fun restaurant. Today is my brother's birthday. Like many people with December birthdays, I think he's gotten the shaft ... Read On >