I love dogs and I live in one of the United States' friendliest dog towns (Alexandria, VA). There are lots of dog lovers in this part of the world, and I usually sell one or two donated puppies each year as part of a live auction fundraiser. Selling a puppy in a live auction is certainly memorable and profitable. Here in Washington, D.C., the puppy can bring $2000 to $5000 per sale. Most bidders respond to the animal positively and are eager to pet the little guy while inquiring about its age, ... Read On >
Administration
12 ways to market your auction fundraiser using social media (e.g. Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn)
Social media applications like blogs, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook can be useful tools in helping you achieve mindshare in your auction guests. Not only are these tools free to use, but they enable you to relay short, constant reminders about your cause and auction fundraiser. Creating "something to write" can be overwhelming for some, so here are 12 auction-related ideas on what you (or your public relations volunteer) can post on Facebook, Twitter, Linked In, or other social networking ... Read On >
Charity auction ideas from the unlikely source of fashion designer Henri Bendel
The September/October issue of Arrive magazine from Amtrak has an article called Fashion's Makeover (page 34) by Michele Meyer. The article is about how the fashion industry has changed in light of the economic slump. Meyer proposes that to survive in this new climate, apparel designers and merchants must rely on instinct, innovation, exclusivity, and the Internet. Sounds like there's some advice in here that charity auction committees would also be smart to follow. Let's dig deeper. In the ... Read On >
Tips to Conquer a Loud Auction Crowd
When I visit with some organizations about their auction fundraiser, they insist that their charity auction crowd is unusually loud. "Sherry, we can't ever get them to pay attention," one will say, "Our crowd likes to party." Pardon the expression, but I'll respond in a common phrase my Dad uses: "No shit, Sherlock." Your guests view a charity auction as a party. Good parties tend to be loud. For your guests, charity auctions are celebratory events. A portion of them may see it as a ... Read On >
Bad economy? Focus on these four areas to save the auction
In my 20+ years as an auctioneer, I've witnessed a few economic disruptions that made Development teams nervous. If the economy seems to be going into a tailspin the same year you're in charge of an auction fundraising gala, read this and focus your efforts on these four areas. 1. Invest your time upfront in placing volunteers into appropriate roles where they can shine. Not all volunteers are created equal. To ensure fewer headaches later, make an effort early in the process to get to know ... Read On >