If you're searching for some fundraising auction ideas that have an impact on the live auction, this is a simple but good one. Sometimes auction catalogs are misplaced before the live auction begins. Other times a catalog isn't printed. Some groups print a catalog, but forget to include the live auction items. Other groups can't include their live auction items into a catalog because the items weren't yet confirmed by the printing deadline. Whatever the reason, guests should have ... Read On >
Live Auctions
How many live auction items should you sell?
I'm asked this question frequently: "Sherry, how many live auction items do you recommend we sell at our gala?" The answer is a lot like eating prunes: "Will three get the job done? Is eight too many?" <wink> Many factors go into my answer because the "right number of live auction items" depends on the client. (Note that the "right number" of items is different than the "average number" of items. In 2015 prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, my school clients sold an average of 15 live ... Read On >
Silent auction item or live: Where to sell it?
In my consultations with clients, I'm often asked for my opinion about items. "Should we include this airfare?" "Will we make more money if we package THESE together, or THOSE together?" "How should we promote this?" If the gala only has a silent auction, I'm never asked whether an item belongs in the silent auction or live auction - there's no choice! But if the gala includes both components, the "silent versus live" debate surfaces. In this post, I want to discuss how an auction item ... Read On >
Oprah’s leaving daytime. Auction fundraisers should request tickets
I am often asked what is the best auction item to secure for an auction fundraiser. Easy answer: Tickets to The Oprah Winfrey Show In your auction, Oprah will outsell tickets to the Superbowl, a private helicopter charter to a Relaix and Chateaux property, and even the chance for a Presidential meet-and-greet. When Oprah tickets are up against any other item, it is -- to borrow a WWE term -- an Oprah SmackDown. As one auction guest told me, "Even if you aren't a huge fan of Oprah, she's so ... Read On >
Benefit auction item ideas: stock the bar | stock the cellar
The upcoming holiday season has me thinking about seasonal get-togethers. Here's a benefit auction item idea fitting to the season. I heard of an older couple who opted to forego the traditional gifts at their wedding. If any guest wanted to give a gift, the couple suggested bringing a bottle of wine so they could "stock the cellar." (I like this idea. I've got enough "stuff" for my house, but the cellar can always be filled.) Similarly, some bridal showers (co-ed) are "stock the bar" ... Read On >