Ah shucks. I shot this video right before Valentine's Day but we didn't get it posted in time. No big deal. Though I reference Valentine's Day, the marketing concept I'm teaching works for other holidays, too. Mother's Day, graduation, Christmas ... any holiday, really. (This will all make sense when you watch the video.) Remember: It's not just about getting great items. It's about MARKETING them. So in this video, you'll hear about some silent auction ideas for benefits as it relates to ... Read On >
VIDEO: Watch your silent auction go up in smoke (positively)
An unexpected magazine showed up on my doorstep. It reminded me of some great silent auction items for your gala tables. We sell these "smoking" items often and they always draw bids. Watch the video below. P.S. For helpful auction information delivered to your inbox, claim your free subscription to Benefit Auction Ideas. ... Read On >
VIDEO: How to easily find your 501(c)(3) number for the auction donation letter
If you're writing and mailing a silent auction donation letter, you'll want to include your charity's 501(c)(3) number (also called a Tax ID number) on the letters and/or forms. It will speed up the donation process. Some volunteers aren't sure what their charity's number is. In this video, you'll be shown how to look it up on an internet-based database. Watch the video below. P.S. For other helpful auction-related information covering a wide range of topics, enjoy this free ... Read On >
Benefit auction secrets: The DISadvantage of large crowds
When it comes to benefit auctions, some think bigger crowds are always better. Perhaps. But there is one distinct DISadvantage of a larger crowd -- it's harder to find a good benefit auctioneer. When you're interviewing auctioneers, find out how many events he or she has overseen with your same guest count. In other words, if you have 400 attendees, ask how many galas he or she is running in that size. Just because an auctioneer has the personality to work an event of 200 guests does not mean ... Read On >
Everyone’s FAVORITE color on the silent auction tables
My post this week is about your silent auction tables and the BEST color to put on them. It seems to be everyone's favorite color. And it's a perfect time for me to share this insight, as next week is Valentine's Day, which is a popular holiday for the giving of jewelry. (This will all make sense in one moment!) Have you heard this phrase? - "People will find the bar on the 5th floor of a 2-story building." My observation is that after finding the bar at your gala (and munching on an ... Read On >