Frequently Asked Questions

Fundraising Auction FAQs

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How much do your auctioneer services cost for a fundraiser?

The cost for our auctioneer services at a fundraiser can vary based on many factors like location, event size, staffing needs, and other expenses. Typically, most events will end up costing between $4000 and $8000, but the value of our involvement will far outweigh the cost.

How far do you travel?

Most of our clients are in the Mid-Atlantic region, but we travel across the United States to places like Denver, CO, and Sarasota, FL for events each year.

What types of fundraising auctions do you do?

We do a wide variety of fundraising auctions, working with clients that range from small local causes to big national nonprofits. We do auctions for health systems and hospitals, mental health organizations, homeless shelters, schools, animal shelters, museums, theaters, and arts organizations.

Do you do school fundraising auctions?

Yes, we do school fundraising auctions and have been successfully doing them for over 10 years.

What types of items can we sell at our auctions?

You can sell a variety of items at your auctions. Popular options include vacation packages, dining experiences, social events, tickets to professional sports games and concerts, jewelry, and other items that have a broad appeal to your guests.

Do you volunteer your services for nonprofits?

We do offer discounted services to a small number of clients, but generally, we charge a professional fee. This allows us to provide high-quality services to more nonprofit clients. We believe our fee is worth it because of the value we bring. We only get involved with an event if we know we can significantly benefit the nonprofit organization.

What services do you provide?

Along with conducting the auction at a live event, we also provide expert consultation during the event planning phase in areas such as auction package brainstorming, donor engagement strategies, floorplan design, and more, all focused on maximizing the funds raised and the supporter momentum for the organization.

Will you attend our fundraising auction planning meetings?

Absolutely, we’d love to attend your planning meetings! Being involved early helps us help you maximize your fundraising and support strategies.

What are your fundraising and auctioneer qualifications?

We’re licensed, professional auctioneers with decades of experience and hundreds of events under our belt. Plus, we’re always continuing our education and training to incorporate the newest trends and marketing into our fundraising strategies.

Can you handle the money for us at our fundraising auction event?

For some clients, we handle the financial transactions of the event, allowing the client organization’s staff to fulfill other goals or responsibilities at the event, such as connecting with donors or interacting with new supporters.

How can you help us raise money at our fundraising event?

You can raise money at your fundraising event in several ways. Besides a live auction, we do Paddle Raises (Live Appeals), and fun games like Heads or Tails, Auction Chicken, and The Price Tonight. We can also help with silent auctions, raffles, wine pulls, and other fundraising activities.

Do your auctioneers work alone or as a team?

Our auctioneers work as a team. The Lead Auctioneer is on stage with the microphone, while the rest of the team mingles with the crowd to engage guests, spot bids, and relay info back to the Lead Auctioneer.

Charitable Organization FAQs

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What makes auctions effective for charitable fundraising?

Auctions turn generosity into an interactive experience, helping supporters feel connected to your mission while giving in a fun and competitive way.

What types of items or packages perform best at charity auctions?

Experiences, travel, exclusive access, themed baskets, and mission-aligned items tend to generate strong interest and higher bids.

Can we tell our organization’s story during the auction?

Yes. Storytelling is a key part of the event, especially in live auctions or paddle raises. We help you integrate your message throughout the evening.

Do you help us plan the event from start to finish?

Yes. We support you through every step—from strategy and item sourcing to auctioneering and follow-up.

Is an in-person auction better than a virtual one?

Both can be successful. We help you choose the format that best fits your audience, resources, and goals.

Can we run an auction even if this is our first time fundraising this way?

Absolutely. We specialize in helping organizations new to auctions get started with confidence and success.

Community Organization FAQs

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What types of auction items work well for local community events?

Items with local appeal—like themed baskets, donated services, gift cards, or experiences from neighborhood businesses—tend to perform well.

Can we host an auction at a community center or public event?

Yes. Auctions are flexible and can be integrated into festivals, dinners, town celebrations, or any gathering space your group already uses.

Do we need a large budget to run a successful auction?

Not at all. With creative sourcing and strategic planning, community organizations can host effective auctions with minimal upfront cost.

Can volunteers help organize and run the auction?

Absolutely. We often work alongside community volunteers, providing guidance and support to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Is it possible to include both a raffle and a silent auction at our event?

Yes. Many community fundraisers combine elements like raffles, silent auctions, and donation appeals for maximum participation.

How do we promote the auction to reach more of our community?

We help you leverage local partnerships, word of mouth, social media, and email outreach to engage supporters effectively.

Cultural & Arts Organizations FAQs

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What are the best auction items for arts-related events?

Artwork, private performances, cultural experiences, and behind-the-scenes tours are always strong performers.

Can we auction experiences with artists or performers?

Yes! Experiences such as artist meet-and-greets or backstage access often attract high bids and deepen donor engagement.

How do we make our mission stand out during an auction?

 Through storytelling, themed event design, and thoughtful item presentation, we help integrate your mission into every part of the experience.

Is a live or silent auction better for arts organizations?

Both can work well. Live auctions are great for standout items, while silent auctions allow for broader participation across multiple price points.

Can we include a performance or artistic element during the auction?

Definitely. Artistic interludes or live performances add atmosphere and help highlight your organization’s talent and purpose.

How do we attract new patrons through our auction event?

We help you market to new audiences and design inclusive, exciting events that appeal to both regular supporters and first-time guests.

Religious Organization FAQs

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Are auctions appropriate for faith-based fundraising?

Yes, when designed thoughtfully, auctions can reflect your values and bring your community together in joyful support.

What kind of items resonate most with faith-based audiences?

Items like service opportunities, family experiences, homemade goods, or faith-themed art and books often perform well.

Can we include a donation appeal or mission moment during our auction?

Definitely. We often include paddle raises or mission-focused segments to highlight needs and invite direct giving.

Is it okay to hold the auction at the church or a religious facility?

Yes. Many organizations host auctions in fellowship halls, school gyms, or other gathering spaces they already use.

How can we keep the focus on ministry and not just on money?

Through meaningful storytelling, prayerful reflection, and values-driven messaging, we ensure your mission remains the heart of the event.

Do you support virtual auctions for congregations spread out geographically?

Absolutely. Virtual platforms allow distant members and supporters to participate from anywhere, helping you reach your full faith community.

School Fundraiser FAQs

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What types of auction items work best for school fundraisers?

Popular items include class baskets, teacher experiences, VIP school privileges, and parent-donated services or goods.

Can students or parents be involved in organizing the auction?

Absolutely! Many schools engage PTA groups, parent volunteers, or student councils to help gather items, promote the event, and even assist during the auction.

What’s the best time of year to hold a school auction?

Spring and fall are ideal, as they align with school calendars and major parent engagement windows.

Do you support both in-person and online school auctions?

Yes, we offer flexible planning and support for in-person, online, or hybrid formats tailored to your school community.

Can we combine a silent auction with a live event like a talent show or carnival?

Absolutely. Silent auctions pair perfectly with existing events to increase participation and raise additional funds.

How can we keep families engaged during a virtual auction?

With strategic timing, fun-themed items, and clear communication, we help schools make virtual auctions just as exciting and inclusive.

Sports Organization FAQs

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What kinds of auction items do sports supporters typically respond to?

Sports memorabilia, athlete meet-and-greets, training sessions, and VIP access to games are consistently popular.

Can we host an auction during a tournament or game night?

Yes! Auctions during events like banquets, tournaments, or opening day celebrations are excellent ways to engage fans and families.

Is it possible to feature team-created items or experiences?

Absolutely. Team-signed gear, coaching sessions, or “coach for a day” experiences work especially well.

What’s the best way to promote our auction to the wider sports community?

We guide you in leveraging team networks, alumni, social media, and parent groups to expand your reach.

Do you support online auctions for travel teams?

Yes. Online auctions are perfect for busy families and teams with supporters spread across different regions.

Can athletes participate in the fundraising efforts?

With proper guidelines, athletes can promote the event, create items, or even appear during the auction to boost excitement.

Connect with the Fundraising Auction Team

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