I've written extensively on how to structure a good silent auction display. And despite my particular interest in acrylic frames, I've even talked about how to create displays without using acrylic stands. But I've not covered why I really like using those acrylic styles. Here's why acrylic stands catch my fancy. First, they are frameless. Unlike using traditional photo frames, which have a 1"-2" frame (see photo) around the edges, clear plastic stands are frameless. It leaves more room for ... Read On >
Groundhog Day Blasé: 5 benefit auction ideas to update tired galas
It's the perfect time of year to talk about some benefit auction ideas to combat what I call "Groundhog Day Blasé." This Wednesday, many weather-casters will give a nod to Punxsutawney Phil -- a groundhog (aka "woodchuck") --living in Punxsutawney, PA. They will comment on whether the critter has seen his shadow, thereby predicting six more weeks of winter. One of my favorite movies showcases this annual weather festival. The 1993 Groundhog Day is a comedy in which the lead character Phil ... Read On >
Oh New York, *must* your auction venue be that exquisite?
Reuters published a story on Monday called Wall Street philanthropy picks up, but not for all. I rolled my eyes. Here's the first two sentences: (Reuters) - At a charity live auction in December for babies born into poverty, Stephanie Astic noted a heavy Wall Street presence in the room -- the extent of which she had not seen since 2007. "They were bidding things up," said Astic, who produces fundraising events for "Room To Grow" and other non-profits at posh Manhattan venues such as ... Read On >
Boost Facebook fans with these benefit auction ideas for a Sweepstakes
We're in the homestretch. It's the final days to improve your auction... for free. One lucky Red Apple Auctions' Facebook fan will win the long-awaited video tutorial product, Charity Auction Bells & Whistles. (Note: We change programs every so often, and this program is no longer available. Check out the “Store” for what’s current.) It's stuff with benefit auction ideas -- a whopping 22 different games, raffles, and activities to incorporate into your gala to add interactivity, ... Read On >
Benefit auction secrets – The easiest way to schedule a meeting
With everyone so busy, it's difficult to coordinate a meeting with your auction team. We've all been the victim (or unwilling participant) of one of those nightmarish scheduling sessions. Someone suggests a time for your 4-person committee to meet, but one of the women can't make that hour. Another time is set-up, and someone else is unable to come. When (finally!) a date and time is found to be all-clear for everyone, someone realizes they forgot a commitment (or a last-minute emergency ... Read On >