At a benefit auction a few years ago, a woman in the back enthusiastically bid in the live auction. She enjoyed bidding a little too much. After buying the trip to Hawaii, her husband let her have it -- verbally. In tears she told my auction team member that she couldn’t buy it. “Ma’am,” my team member gently reminded her, “You’ve already bought it.” “Sell it again,” she cried, “He’ll divorce me if I take it home.” Has this happened to you? If not, you just haven’t run enough benefit ... Read On >
Audience Development
Benefit auction secrets: The DISadvantage of large crowds
When it comes to benefit auctions, some think bigger crowds are always better. Perhaps. But there is one distinct DISadvantage of a larger crowd -- it's harder to find a good benefit auctioneer. When you're interviewing auctioneers, find out how many events he or she has overseen with your same guest count. In other words, if you have 400 attendees, ask how many galas he or she is running in that size. Just because an auctioneer has the personality to work an event of 200 guests does not mean ... Read On >
VIDEO: Tips to reduce no-shows at your benefit auction
It's disheartening to work so hard, only to have empty tables at your gala. And no-shows certainly don't help your auction returns. In this video, learn some benefit auction tips for reducing no-shows. We want one seat in every chair! ;) Watch the video below. ... Read On >
VIDEO: Celebrity Charity – Enlisting Stars to Your Cause
Do you dream of having that perfect celebrity spokesperson attend your gala, support your cause, and articulate your mission to the masses? Here are some pointers on where to start when it comes to celebrity charity. Watch the video below. ... Read On >
PODCAST: Who should you invite to your auction: men or women?
A new study has been released that compares the giving patterns of men versus women. Based on the data, should you start changing your invitation list? Find out in this podcast. Listen to the podcast below. ... Read On >