UPDATE: This class has passed. To keep abreast of future calls, subscribe to Benefit Auction Ideas. ++++++ A number of you inspired me to dig deep into how and why some auction chairs have super-successful auctions and others don't. After three months of research, I've got the goods. In fact, depending on how long you've been getting my information, you might have participated in step one of this research (a survey). After hearing from you, talking with clients, and meeting with Auction ... Read On >
Silent Auctions
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 >
Family Photo Party: The traditional silent auction photography donation gets updated
If your silent auction items are similar to many galas, at least one of the items donated will be from a photographer. It's often a free sitting with one 8"X10" print. Although the item is usually displayed nicely and the photographer often has a lovely image of their work available to view, it rarely sells for top dollar. I've been seeking a way to improve this donation and recently read something that offers a fresh twist on this traditional (but tired) silent auction item. Christopher ... Read On >
Proof of silent auction ideas that work: printer’s plate
A few months ago, I shared what a printer's plate is and how to get it. These plates make for nice silent auction items because they are unusual. At a recent event, I was walking the silent auction with my client before guests arrived. As we approached the plates pictured, she said, "We're really excited about these." "Wow," I said, "I wrote about how to get these donated a few months ago, but I don't often see them in auctions." "I know you wrote about it," she said, "That's how I got ... 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 >