Every year, pro auctioneer and charity auction expert Sherry Truhlar of Red Apple Auctions puts out a free guide to the best auction items she sold the previous year. She updates it each January, and it’s full of ideas for your next auction. Sure, the standard stuff is in there (wine, trips, etc.), but there are always a few innovative items that can inspire you to create something truly unique.
The 6 Best Live Auction Money Makers
Auctioneer Tim Keller shared the six categories that consistently sell for the most at live auctions, in order:
- Unique experiences only your organization can offer (like a theater’s trip to sit in on auditions with the producer)
- Food & wine, especially group experiences for two to four couples
- Travel that’s a little different from anything people could just book themselves
- Entertainment & sports: backstage, behind the scenes, into the locker room
- Pampering: spa trips, shopping sprees, anything relaxing and fun to do together
- Stuff, which comes last. Your guests already have all the stuff they need.
To find great items, start a brainstorm with your board and team with one question: “Who do you know that knows someone?” All it takes is a simple ask.
Want more ideas? Grab my free Auction Item Wishlist Template.