Unless one is working in the weeds of galas, they'd never notice the minor shifts taking place each year. Yet shifts happen. Let’s consider some fast-moving auction packages as a quick example. Peloton bikes were the rage during the 2020 pandemic. It morphed into MIRROR and Tonal when virtual galas continued into 2021. Solo stoves were also a pandemic favorite. That offering morphed into Ooni Pizza Ovens. Auction old-timers will recall the significant donations from Kuerig, Green ... Read On >
trends
Prediction: Virtual galas in 2021
With summer fast becoming a distant memory, I'm talking with clients about their 2021 fundraising galas. One topic frequently entering the conversation sounds something like this: "What will happen to virtual galas?" "Even if we can meet in-person, should we make a decision to host a virtual gala instead?" "What will change with virtual galas post COVID-19?" "We cancelled our spring 2020 event because we didn't want to go virtual. But now, as we start to plan our calendar, what ... Read On >
2020 fundraising auction trends
In my last blog post, I reflected on some of the more creative auction themes I saw in 2019. Today, let's look ahead and consider a few trends I'm seeing in fundraising auctions. Auction Trend #1: Three popular auction themes In 2020, I expect to see a lot of these types of themes. "The Roaring '20s," "Great Gatsby," and other nods to the 1920's. With a turn of the calendar, we've returned to the '20's -- it's just 100 years later. "20/20 vision," "Hindsight is 20/20," and other ... Read On >
2019 Benefit Auction Statistics: How does your event rate?
Generally speaking, I'm not a fan of comparing the numbers of your benefit auction to other events. Results vary by region, guest capacity, the cause, the type of event, and other factors. Furthermore, unless you are able to see all of the data and how a charity is tracking its results, numbers can be misleading. Highly misleading. But on the other hand, many Auction Chairs are curious. They like auction statistics because they learn what others charge for tickets, for instance. Or how ... Read On >
Creative event names for your auction gala fundraiser
I love word play. Thoughtful poems and good song lyrics beg for me to memorize them. And when rhymes are tied to rhythm in a rap, remembering lyrics is even easier. But word play isn't just for music. I recall listening to Sam Horn (the speaker, not the baseball player) sharing a story about her book title, "Tongue Fu! How to Deflect, Disarm, and Defuse any Verbal Conflict." What a great name. Kung fu conjures ideas of self-defense, and Sam ingeniously used the same alliteration ... Read On >