How to host a silent auction

2. The goods.
Items need to be desirable and useful in order to get people to bid on them. Susan suggests the following items for raising top dollars at your event:

• Electronics (iPod, DVD player, etc)
• Tools (power drill, gardening tools, etc.)
• Home décor (vase, end tables, area rug, etc.)
• Beauty baskets (cosmetics, bath, aromatherapy, etc.)
• Gift certificates (restaurants, home décor stores, hot air balloon rides, etc.)

In order to get businesses or companies to donate items, a little footwork is needed. "Send the business letter and tell them exactly what it is you are looking for and why you are looking for it," Susan says. Keep the letter personal, short, and don't forget to include a deadline. It's also courteous to send thank-you notes to those who donated, so keep track of who donated what.

You can also personally visit smaller businesses and ask to speak with the manager or owner so you can ask for a donation in person. Get started on this early to ensure you have enough items to display at your auction.

Remember you need to display the items that are up for bidding in a way that makes them more attractive and appealing. Donations such as beauty items usually don't come packaged together, so be prepared to wrap a few items together in a basket or to request that items come pre-packaged.

Tip: Susan also recommends that you sell raffle tickets for a door prize at your silent auction. "Not everyone is in a financial situation to bid on more expensive items," she says.

3. Pricing.
Susan advises to start bidding at 50 per cent of the value of the item and always remember to display the retail value. Few can resist a good deal -- and it will always get someone to start the bidding process.

Tip: Collect payment immediately so you don't have to worry about chasing people down once the event is over.

Need more advice for hosting a silent auction? Discuss with other readers in our forums!

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