Visibility equals value

Where you place your auction items matters more than you think. Bidders tend to engage with what’s most visible, especially at crowded or high-energy events. If your best items—like luxury getaways or exclusive experiences—are tucked away in a corner, you risk losing big-ticket bids to low visibility.

Make them impossible to miss

Display high-value items in your event’s most visible spaces—think entrance tables, bar areas, or the live auction stage. If you're using screens, rotate highlight slides throughout the night. Just a little strategic placement can generate a lot more buzz—and a much higher bid. 

Don’t just list it, sell it

When it comes to auction items, bullet points and highlights aren’t enough. Your donors want to feel the experience—whether it’s a luxurious beach resort or dinner with a private chef.

Create the dream, then raise the paddle

Use emotional language to paint the picture. Mention things like personal concierge service, sunset views, and VIP access, or tie it to a donor’s lifestyle: “perfect for a milestone birthday” or “a romantic anniversary escape for two.” 

Got a bidding war on your hands? Don't stop at just one sale. Selling consignment to multiple bidders often generates more revenue than driving up the price until only one winner remains. 

The buzz begins before your event

Donors shouldn't be discovering your best auction items for the first time at check-in. Build excitement ahead of your event with sneak peeks on social and by email.

Make your item the headline

Post a stunning image of your biggest-ticket experience along with a punchy caption: “🌴 This private Caribbean villa is calling, and it could be yours at our Spring Gala!”

Tag your sponsors, include the event date, and add a link in bio to your event page. Early buzz drives attendance and gives donors time to dream—and budget. 

The order you choose sets the tone

If your auction starts slow or drags midway, it can kill the momentum and the bids. Don’t just go down the list in item number order.

Open strong, close stronger

Begin with an attention-grabber that’s easy to bid on—something exciting, but not your top item. Save the most high-value, emotional, or “wow” packages for the middle or end, when donor energy peaks. 

Mixing in something funny or unique halfway through can also revive attention. Strategic pacing keeps the room engaged and the bids flowing in. 

A great auctioneer is more than a fast talker

They’re your energy engine—the one who sets the pace, reads the room, and keeps the momentum building. But even the most charismatic auctioneer can only do so much without the right tools and support.

Arm them with the story behind the item

Share short, powerful talking points ahead of time. Instead of listing “5 nights in Mexico,” have them say, “Picture yourself sipping cocktails by your private infinity pool with breathtaking views of the ocean.” 

Help them connect the dots between experience and emotion. When your auctioneer believes in the item, your bidders will too.

More info = more confidence

Guests don’t always want to ask questions, or can’t hear you over the crowd. If they’re unsure about an item, they might skip it.

Make it easy to learn more

Add simple signage or printouts for live auction items, highlighting inclusions, donor value, and key perks. Better yet, use QR codes that link to digital previews, videos, or detailed descriptions. With a quick scan, your donors get all the info they need to place a confident, generous bid. 

Remind them what’s up for grabs

Even your most loyal guests might forget what's being auctioned—especially if it's buried in a long event description.  

Choose your top 3 auction items and send a short email the day before with images, value, and a few enticing words (“Start planning your escape to Bali...”). Include clear event details and a link to preview the full catalog if possible.

Follow up with a printed list of items

Keep the momentum going on event night by handing out a printed guide of auction items to attendees. You want guests to be primed, prepared, and ready to bid when your live auction kicks off. 

Low-bid items don’t have to stay that way

Individually, smaller donated items like wine or gift cards may not generate much excitement or high returns.

Package by theme for more impact

Try bundling gift cards, services, or local products into themed gift baskets like “Date Night In,” “Spa-Day,” or "Wine Tasting at Home.” 

A themed package increases perceived value, simplifies the donor decision, and often earns a higher bid than the items would separately. Plus, it looks more polished and intentional on display.

Volunteers are your undercover promoters

They’re already greeting guests, helping with check-in, and answering questions—why not equip them to build buzz, too?

Prep them with a mini script

Give each volunteer 1–2 quick lines about a key auction item or the event’s fundraising goal. Example: “Make sure to check out the Tuscany trip—it’s one of our top sellers and last year’s winners couldn’t stop raving about it.” These casual, peer-to-peer mentions can drive interest without feeling like a hard sell. 

Generosity follows emotional connection

Donors don’t just give because of what they get—they give because they believe in your mission.

Tie the auction back to your impact

Work in reminders throughout your event that highlight what each bid supports. That could mean live testimonials, short video clips, or a simple announcement: “Your bid tonight helps us provide 500 meals this month.” When donors feel connected to the cause, they bid with their hearts, not just their wallets. 

You Might Also Like...

Take Action

Sometimes the simplest changes spark the biggest results.

Looking to take your auction even further? Discover how our luxury travel experiences are helping nonprofits like yours raise over $35 million at auction.

Connect with our team today for a free discovery call.