Have you ever been to an event where the silent auction is crammed into a space and you feel like you are at a discount mart? Why not go top tier instead? Using an idea from a popular dinner party – transform your auction into a progressive auction.
What is a progressive auction? A progressive dinner is where you eat each course at a separate venue or home. This can be great fun having an appetizer in one location, salad at the next, and moving throughout the evening. How can this idea enhance your auction?
Progressive bidding is a terrific option if your event is being held at a school. The main event or dinner will take place in the multi, but your auction can take place in separate classrooms. Like at an open house, attendees will see the student’s work and remind them why their donations are so needed. Display the items for optimal visibility.
You will want to create a reason for people to travel from room to room and a way to ensure that they hit every space. Perhaps have the guest receive a ticket for each room they visit. Put these tickets into a raffle for a bottle of wine, for first dibs at the dinner or dessert table, or even a cash prize. The more rooms they visit, the better their odds of winning a prize! If your event has a theme, such as “casino”, each “game room” can hold a different game with unique silent auction items. Have fun with this, and your guests will too!