This Wow Box was the subject of Conversation 5 in my COVID-19 series, "The Next Six Months." You can register for the free series to listen to all conversations. ============================ How do you create a memorable experience when you can't curate the evening? This has been the dilemma for many auction planners since COVID-19 forced galas to go virtual. A thematic evening with controlled ambiance -- music, lights, food, drink and a carefully crafted stage program -- goes ... Read On >
Benefit Auctions Blog
Unintended consequences of watch parties during Zoom-style virtual galas
English ivy was brought to the United States for ornamental purposes; it looks so pretty scampering up a wire. But the ivy's introduction had some unintended consequences. It grows so aggressively, it overtakes small trees and damages mortar in brickwork. Unintended consequences are also apparent in our virtual galas. Nearly every week I am asked to troubleshoot a new problem that has surfaced, typically because someone has tweaked one area in an effort to improve the event. The ... Read On >
Prediction: Virtual galas in 2021
With summer fast becoming a distant memory, I'm talking with clients about their 2021 fundraising galas. One topic frequently entering the conversation sounds something like this: "What will happen to virtual galas?" "Even if we can meet in-person, should we make a decision to host a virtual gala instead?" "What will change with virtual galas post COVID-19?" "We cancelled our spring 2020 event because we didn't want to go virtual. But now, as we start to plan our calendar, what ... Read On >
Virtual gala software – 2 approaches for studio-based livestreams
Last week I created a "Virtual Gala Cheat Sheet" for a webinar. Renee Zau of DonationMatch had asked a client and I to participate on a webinar for the San Diego chapter of the American Marketing Association. The topic was "Virtual Fundraising Events That Work: Best Practices and Trends." If you've participated in my free "The Next 6 Months" conversation series on COVID-19 and galas, you are probably further along in your understanding than what the Virtual Gala Cheat Sheet offers. Even ... Read On >
Wine is the new (coronavirus-safe) auction consignment package
Last Thursday a big box arrived on my doorstep. Unlike so many of the packages I receive, I had to sign for this one. I didn’t know what was in it. After the UPS truck pulled off, I investigated. I couldn’t remember ordering anything that would require such a large box. Plus, it was heavy. I cut the tape to see what was inside. I saw two Styrofoam containers. And then I removed the lid of the Styrofoam container. Aha! I immediately remembered a call I’d received from a consignor who ... Read On >