Fundraising gala auctioneer Sherry Truhlar

silent auction

VIDEO: Fundraising auction ideas using vegetables

One of my food-related charities asked me for some suggestions on how they might incorporate the almighty vegetable into their gala.  I revisited some previous events for ideas and here's what I shared with them. Any of you wondering if these fundraising auction ideas would work for fruit should know that -- yes, of course.  ;) Watch the video below. ... 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 >

New silent auction entertainment ideas – flip books

Last month I spoke at the Missouri Meetings and Events Expo "Boot Camp" in St. Louis. During the cocktail reception, I wandered by an activity that might be included in your silent auction. A green screen was set-up in front of a camera. Fun props were piled on a table nearby. In essence, the subject (moi) selects a background and then "performs" in front of the camera for 6 seconds. Record A Hit had several backgrounds.  I selected the St. Louis arch, given our location. Next I had to think ... Read On >