In recent years, the prevailing advice I seem to catch online is that nonprofits should put more "experiences" into their auction line-up. Fundraising auction procurement angled towards "experiences" will presumably garner the big bucks. To be clear, we're not talking about experiences like a colonoscopy or dental work. It's more like a trip with a wine tasting. Or a hot air balloon ride. But here's my take: I don't believe that telling a committee member to "go get some experiences ... Read On >
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$200 VIP Upgrade Experience Box (Wow Box) from a small school
Given the timing of this post (landing between Christmas and New Year's Eve), I wasn't planning on sharing much in the way of substance. But then I came across this video from spring 2020 that had not yet been posted. Wow Boxes, also called VIP boxes, are a uniquely virtual gala element. It turns out virtual galas are still going to be happening in spring 2022 -- at least for some groups. A few spring clients have already moved their gala date to later in 2022 as they try to dodge the ... Read On >
Changes to consider for your 2022 auction gala
We're headed back to the ballroom in 2022. My clients are planning in-person galas for next year, but that doesn't mean they have stopped considering the impact of COVID-19. Instead, they are making adjustments to manage concerns from guests. Overall, there's a strong desire to host the event in-person. I’m seeing adjustments being made to the live auction, silent auction, entertainment, and venue layout. I don't know that I'd call these auction trends because I suspect some of these ... Read On >
6 steps to writing a story to share during the paddle raise
At a conference I attended this past summer, consultant Lori Jacobwith gave a presentation on storytelling. She shared a framework for creating a story. Storytelling is a powerful way to educate and connect guests to your cause, regardless of your event's style. In some cases -- and certainly during the events of which I'm a part – the complete story is often revealed immediately prior to me asking guests to make a contribution during a paddle raise / fund a need. When you host events ... Read On >
Video clips from hybrid and virtual galas – acknowledging at-home bidders
This past month has been a mix of in-person, virtual, and hybrid galas. I've been working on getting comfortable with different approaches. These clips represent some new layouts and technology for me, which better allow me to acknowledge and involve at-home bidders. ==================================== Hybrid gala 100 in-room guests / 100 at-home guests Selling a trip to Martha's Vineyard What to watch: Bids from at-home guests whereby I engaged them by looking at the ... Read On >