I had a memorable auction last week in upstate New York. I want to tell you about it and share a couple of observations. But first, let me share a story from my early days in USA's capital. Nearly 15 years ago my parents were visiting me in Washington, D.C. In preparation of their visit, I'd purchased tickets for us to watch a performance at the Kennedy Center. Just a week before they arrived, I also won a prize from a radio station. It included tickets to an afternoon performance at a ... Read On >
entertainment
Silent Auction Idea for Entertainment: Frames for self-portraiture
Last Saturday I worked for a school that used “Gotham City” as its theme. I saw this idea and immediately thought of all the ways it could be used in other silent auctions. One of the least expensive ways to add entertainment to your silent auction area is to incorporate photography. Photo-related entertainment concepts might include ideas such as ... Flip books The Boothomatic (I received a promotion last week on a new type of booth designed specifically for “Selfies.” The entire ... Read On >
Silent auction entertainment that startles
One of my auctions this past weekend used this silent auction entertainment idea. As the idea is fresh in my mind, it’s a perfect time to give you some pointers on using this concept. They’re called living statues. Also called “human statues,” the idea is that a person stands “frozen” until he receives a donation or otherwise wants to startle a passer-by. At that point, he changes his position. Here’s why I like this form of entertainment ... and some tips on getting the most out of ... Read On >
VIDEO: Who opens the headline entertainment at your charity auction?
When your auction entertainment ideas skew to the grand, be careful! Incorporating headline entertainment into a charity auction is an impressive addition, but when you allow your event to become a stage for a top performers, there is a risk. It's possible that your mission and good works will be eclipsed by the entertainment. How do you ensure that doesn't happen? You organize the gala schedule in such a way that it allows you to do mission-related work first. Watch the video for details ... Read On >
Sit! Using a flash mob to seat unruly charity auction guests
I've enjoyed watching flash mob videos, especially those in New York City where I'm familiar with the venues. Even just two weeks ago I stumbled across a flash mob on Bondi Beach while researching an Australian trip for a charity auction. But I'd never thought of using the concept to seat guests at the auction gala. In a June 2011 Chronicle of Philanthropy article, gala guests were encouraged to sit down via the incorporation of a flash mob dance routine during the reception. The ... Read On >