This is the first of a three-part blog series titled “Stop, Start, Keep”. This method of analyzing a charity auction event came to me by way of a fellow fundraising auctioneer, Darron Meares. Darron is founder of Bowtie Benefit Auctions. Let’s explore “stop” – the first of these three steps we’ll cover. Many nonprofits conduct…
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I was flying out of the Atlanta airport recently and had managed to snag seat 12C, my trusty aisle seat that I grab whenever I can get it. I love to look out of the window when flying, especially on departure and landing. It helps maintain my equilibrium. Before we took off on this particular…
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In addition to live and silent auctions and Fund-A-Needs, many charities host raffles or games that tap into the smaller dollars in the room at their benefit auction fundraising events. This creates a fun atmosphere for your guests. How can you make it easy for your guests to find the volunteers who are facilitating the…
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When you conduct a fundraising event and you are using mobile bidding during the live auction, do you incorporate the visual “thermometer” that tracks the giving for the public ask during the Fund-A-Need? If you are, there is some strategy as to when the thermometer should be displayed. In this example, we are conducting an…
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I imagine that most of you have heard of the Wine Pull or Wall of Wine revenue generator that is facilitated at charity auction events. This activity is enjoyed by guests during the silent auction/cocktail time and is set up at a station. A twist on this activity is a Scotch or Bourbon Pull. Guests…
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Many guests attend fundraising events with a plan to give at some point during the evening. As I’ve mentioned in previous blogs, the Fund-A-Need is a great way to give everyone that opportunity. The question is, are you doing everything you can to motivate your guests to give during the Fund-A-Need? Let’s talk about Fund-A-Need…
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Have you ever offered a live auction item at your charity auction that tanked one year and sold for big money the next year? It does happen. Here are some reasons why. A repeat live auction item may be more well-known the second year it is offered. You can help get the word out that…
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I’ve heard time and time again that non-profits want their guests to “drink a lot” before the live charity auction because they’ll “spend more money”. Well, everything has a limit and I’d like to discuss those that pertain to alcohol and fundraising. Many events will have open bars and/or bottles of wine on the table…
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