Fundraising gala auctioneer Sherry Truhlar

Blog Post

Funky sound systems match your benefit auction theme

My recent articles in Benefit Auction Ideas (my twice-a-month ezine) have focused on suggestions for great benefit auction themes.  In this post, I'm moving this theme concept in a new direction. Some elements of your gala are optional; others are required.  Having a theme is optional.  Offering items that people want - and guests with money to buy them - is required. A sound system falls into that latter category.  It's required, even for small crowds. (I once used an at-home "toy" karaoke ... Read On >

Sure, AMEX fees are high. Should charity auctions accept it anyway?

  In May I worked a gala for a group here in the Washington, D.C. area.  During our wrap-up conversation, the Gala Chair commented that a good friend of hers accompanied her to the event, eager to spend money.  Upon arrival, she learned that the group's auction checkout procedures didn't include taking AMEX.  They'd opted against setting up an AMEX account.  She couldn't buy anything. Our assembly listened to the story and then one of the women explained.  "The Board has repeatedly ... 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 >

Gala centerpieces don’t have to be flowers

Floral gala centerpieces are the norm at most of our auctions, but are other ways of decorating your table. Check out this NON-floral, balloon centerpiece I saw in St. Louis, MO last week at the Missouri Meetings & Events Expo.  The "Boot Camp" theme of the Expo wasn't lost on the company that brought this balloon bouquet. American Carnival Mart decked out their booth in full Boot Camp motif, so this "floral" arrangement is on the green-and-black side. As you can see, the balloons ... Read On >