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Gala Gal, Inc
Gala Gal, Inc
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29 Google reviews
Posted on Google Google
Hillary Hahmann profile picture
Hillary H
May 15, 2026
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Working with Jenelle was absolutely amazing! She helped guide us every step of the way and made the entire process feel manageable and exciting. Since it was all of our first times fundraising, we truly appreciated how willing she was to share ideas, answer questions, and provide support throughout the event planning process. Thanks to her expertise and guidance, we raised far more money than we ever expected. Jenelle was organized, creative, encouraging, and an absolute pleasure to work with. We highly recommend working with her for any event or fundraising needs!

Owner's reply
Hillary, wow, thank you so much for sharing your experience planning your 100th Anniversary Gala! No one could have guessed it was anyone's first time planning a black-tie event: you blew past the sponsorship goal, sold so many tickets there wasn't room for 1 more person, and had sky-high live auction bidding. A job very well done by you and the entire JLT planning team. It was an honor to be a part of the celebration. JT
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Maritza Rivera profile picture
Maritza R
December 1, 2025
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As the Event Manager for the New Beginnings "Dancing Under the Stars" Gala on November 8th in Clermont, FL, I cannot recommend the "Gala gal" auctioneer enough. She was absolutely amazing to work with and was instrumental in making our event incredibly successful and memorable. From the start, her professionalism and communication were outstanding. I greatly appreciated her open, clear communication and the extensive knowledge and strategic insights she brought to our staff meetings. On the night of the gala, she truly transformed into an energetic, magnetic force. Her ability to connect with the audience and use positive persuasion was phenomenal, successfully encouraging generous giving to our amazing cause. I will exclusively be seeking her assistance for any future galas I manage. If you want a successful, high-energy, and professionally executed auction, look no further!

Owner's reply
Maritza, Wow, thank you so much for sharing your experience working with me. It was such a smooth planning process with so many engaged committee members. Thank you for all you did to handle the event details - there were so many and it all came out perfectly. I look forward to working with you again. JT
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Adum Auction Gala profile picture
Adum A
November 17, 2025
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Don't think twice about it, book the Gala Gal TODAY! We've partnered with Jenelle twice now for our local public school fundraising event, and not only does she get the live auction prices UP during the event (which exceeded our fundraising goal), she provides strategic advice for flow, item management, and many many tips for success! Her experience is invaluable!

Owner's reply
Thank you, Sarah! Truly, the galas ran so smoothly thanks to your fantastic attention to detail and flair for design. And your school's parents get an A+ for bidder participation - I've never seen so many bid paddles go up at one time! Thanks for having me on your team. JT
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Jeremy Elliott profile picture
Jeremy E
November 13, 2025
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+2
We had the absolute pleasure of working with Janelle at our New Beginnings Gala this past weekend, and she completely exceeded every expectation! Going into the event, our team was fairly unfamiliar with the live auction process—but from start to finish, Janelle guided us with such professionalism, energy, and heart that it felt effortless. She added dynamic elements to the evening that not only kept our guests fully engaged but also helped us raise more funds than ever before! Her ability to read the room, inspire generosity, and bring excitement to every moment made a world of difference. If you’re looking for someone who is knowledgeable, entertaining, and incredibly thorough, do yourself and your team a favor—book Janelle. She’s a true professional who turns fundraising into a fun, unforgettable experience.

Owner's reply
Jeremy, that's awesome, thank you! We definitely had a great night of fun and fundraising. As emcee you absolutely killed it - great voice, great presence, great energy (even dancing!) - you are all the things it's so hard to find in an emcee. And of course you're an amazing ambassador for NB. It is my pleasure to support the transformational work you do. JT
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Jamila Smith profile picture
Jamila S
November 12, 2025
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We want to extend our deepest gratitude to Jenelle for her extraordinary role in making our Annual Dancing Under the Stars Gala the most successful event we’ve ever hosted! Jenelle was far more than an auctioneer — she was a true partner in every step of the process. She attended committee meetings, offered expert guidance on how to craft our auction asks, identified key places to solicit donations, and even informed the structure of our event presentation and PowerPoint. Her insight, professionalism, and generosity of time made a tremendous difference. From start to finish, Jenelle was a key component in the event’s success — contributing not only to its profitability, but also to the organization, energy, and seamless flow of the evening. Thanks to her leadership and enthusiasm, our live auction raised vital funds that are now helping even more families and individuals facing housing instability, food insecurity, and financial hardship. We simply can’t recommend her highly enough. Jenelle is phenomenal — a gifted professional with a heart for service — and we are so grateful for the impact she made on our mission and community.

Owner's reply
Jamila, wow, thank you! It's been great to work with you now for two different nonprofits. You're an excellent leader - motivating, gracious, and determined! Last Saturday's event was pure magic, and I think we can raise even more next year after the ideas shared at today's recap. Thank you for bringing me on board, JT
Posted on Google Google
Caroline McCombs profile picture
Caroline M
September 24, 2025
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I can’t say THANK YOU enough to Jenelle for everything she put into our event! From all the prep-work ahead of time, to her enthusiasm and guidance with our volunteers, to her outstanding efforts on stage, she truly went above and beyond. Jenelle brought incredible energy and helped us raise dollars from a tougher crowd, and we’ve already heard countless compliments from both guests and staff about how great & motivating she was. She made such a positive difference compared to past events, and I highly recommend her to any nonprofit considering! I look forward to partnering with the Gala Gal again next year.

Owner's reply
Caroline, thank you so much for your kind words! It turned out to be a great event, and you were a major part of that. I really enjoyed working with you and your team during the months of planning. Thank you for having me as your auctioneer partner, and I look forward to doing it all again next year.
Posted on Google Google
Mike Evans profile picture
Mike E
April 1, 2025
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Jenelle is absolutely, amazing when it comes to benefit auctions in fundraising. She is also very knowledgeable and helpful, when it comes coaching and mentoring new benefit auctioneers. Whether you are looking for a benefit auctioneer and fundraiser in the Florida area or help with growing your auction and fundraising business. Janelle is the "go to" person to contact. You will be glad that you did!

Owner's reply
Mike, thank you! It's been great getting to know you and helping you along on your benefit auction business journey. Thank you for what you do to help others.
Posted on Google Google
Denise Brown profile picture
Denise B
March 5, 2025
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+2
Jenelle took lead straight away. She has come to our Non-profit this year and she brought great ideas on how to raise funds. She got our guests up off their seats and got them in full swing participating We look forward to continuing our relationship with her in the future.

Owner's reply
Denise, Thank you for sharing your experience. Your crowd was fun, and I can see big things in your future events! Thanks for having me, JT
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LaTasha Keener profile picture
Latasha K
January 23, 2025
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We had the pleasure of collaborating with Jenelle for our nonprofit's annual gala (Equality Florida), and we couldn't be more impressed! From start to finish, her professionalism was exceptional. Jenelle brought a wealth of fundraising expertise to the table, offering valuable guidance on how to structure the auction and even helping us identify amazing items and unique ideas to maximize our fundraising efforts. On the night of the event, Jenelle absolutely captivated the crowd with her witty stage presence and engaging style, making the auction not only a success but also an enjoyable experience for all involved. Her energy and charisma had the room buzzing, which was key in driving up bids and creating a fun, competitive atmosphere. What truly set Jenelle apart, however, was her support throughout the entire planning process. She was always available to offer advice, answer questions, and ensure that everything ran smoothly. Thanks to her expertise, our gala was a huge success, and we were able to raise significantly more than expected (our highest grossing live auction EVER). I Highly recommend Jenelle for any nonprofit event—truly a top-notch professional!

Owner's reply
Wow, thank you so much! You are a rock star and played such a pivotal role in the event’s success. I truly enjoyed working with you and can’t thank you enough for your contributions. Meeting you was a highlight of the planning process! JT
Posted on Google Google
Julie Wright profile picture
Julie W
May 21, 2024
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I love working with Jenelle! She is professional, knowledgeable, and helped us exponentially increase more revenue. I have worked with her numerous times over the years and am always impressed.

Owner's reply
Julie, I love working with you, too! You're always on top of details and so easy to partner with on fundraisers. Thank you for all you did for this last event, and I look forward to doing it again! JT
Posted on Google Google
Becca C profile picture
Becca C
June 27, 2023
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We have had the absolute pleasure of working with Jenelle Taylor from Gala Gal as the auctioneer for the Safari Under the Stars fundraiser at Brevard Zoo for over five years, and we couldn't be more thrilled with the outcome. Jenelle's professionalism, charisma, and extraordinary talent turned our event into an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. From the moment we began planning our fundraiser, Jenelle proved to be an exceptional partner. She took the time to understand our organization's mission and goals, and she seamlessly incorporated them into the auction program. Jenelle's passion for our cause was evident in her enthusiasm and dedication, and it truly resonated with our guests. During the event, Jenelle's vibrant energy electrified the room. She captivated the audience with her engaging presence, effortlessly guiding us through the auction process. Her command of the crowd and ability to create excitement and anticipation made the bidding process enjoyable and thrilling. Jenelle's gift for storytelling and her infectious sense of humor kept everyone entertained, ensuring a lively and entertaining atmosphere throughout the evening. Jenelle's expertise in the art of auctioneering is truly exceptional, and her ability to assess the room and adapt her approach accordingly is remarkable. Whether it was an intimate conversation or an energetic bidding war, Jenelle effortlessly navigated the dynamics of the event, ensuring that every moment was enjoyable and successful. Her skills were instrumental in maximizing the fundraising potential for our Safari Under the Stars event. The impact of Jenelle's efforts was tangible and far-reaching. Thanks to her incredible talent and tireless dedication, we surpassed our fundraising goals, allowing us to make significant strides in supporting Brevard Zoo's mission. The funds raised will have a lasting and positive impact on the important conservation initiatives we undertake. If you're in need of an auctioneer who can bring excitement, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to your cause, we wholeheartedly recommend Jenelle Taylor from Gala Gal. Her ability to connect with the audience, elevate the event atmosphere, and drive remarkable results is truly unparalleled. Working with her was an absolute pleasure, and we look forward to collaborating with her again. Thank you, Jenelle, for an unforgettable evening that will continue to make a difference for Brevard Zoo.

Owner's reply
Thank you so much for taking the time to sum up our past few years working together. It’s been better each year, and I love working with you and helping the Zoo!
Posted on Google Google
Angela Erb profile picture
Angela E
May 12, 2023
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I am an event coordinator but had not yet had the opportunity to coordinate a live or silent auction and needed to for my Parish's annual fundraising Gala. I found Jenelle on my search for an auctioneer and am so happy to have found her. She helped me in strategizing, finding items, pre-event fundraising, and then killed it on the night of the event. She had never attending any other parish event but knew our community inside and out. She did her research and immediately felt just like one of us! It was amazing to watch her lead a room. Parishioners are still talking about how wonderful she was at our annual Gala. I cannot recommend her enough!

Owner's reply
Angela, Thank you, your event was so much fun! The audience really played along and we had a lot of laughs. It was a pleasure to help the parish.
Posted on Google Google
Lynn Ivanek profile picture
Lynn I
May 11, 2023
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Jenelle took our annual event to the next level and really got our audience engaged. It was fun, upbeat and impactful because of her participation. Thank you Jenelle!

Owner's reply
Thank you, Lynn. You had a great crowd that surprised us all with their generosity. It was such a fun luncheon!
Posted on Google Google
Barbara Siniscalchi profile picture
Barbara S
March 17, 2023
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Jenelle was extremely involved with the preparations regarding the auction items for our event as well as the Giving From the Heart. She spent a considerable amount of time doing background research on our organization, our event and detail research on our auction items. With attention to detail, she used our cocktail hour to inform our guests on the details of auction items. We got very positive reaction on Jenelle’s direct but not intrusive style of auctioneering. Our guests were comfortable and treated with respect while being encouraged to donate. Hope to work with her again! Exceptional talent.

Owner's reply
Barbara, thank you so much. You brought together a wonderful and generous group of supporters. It was a beautiful night!
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Humane Society Of Charlotte profile picture
Humane S
November 21, 2022
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Jenelle was a phenomenal auctioneer for our Ties and Tails Gala. Her dedication before, during and after our event was top notch. She jazzed up lots of excitement for our live auction items and helped us exceed our fundraising goal. We highly recommend Gala Gal, Inc to anyone looking for a passionate, entertaining, and professional auctioneer to help raise money at their next fundraising event. We will be booking her again next year!

Owner's reply
Thank you for sharing our story! It was a pleasure to work together, and those wine offerings were such a big hit that your auction soared. Looking forward to our next gala, JT
Posted on Google Google
Gena Vacha profile picture
Gena V
June 6, 2022
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We are so thankful for the help and guidance Jenelle from Gala Gal provide to our school throughout our auction! Jenelle was a wealth of information and provide much needed support through the entire process. Jenelle was a key component in executing a wonderful and successful live auction!

Owner's reply
Gena, thank you! It's been great to work with you over the years, and I'm so happy that our strategy with this year's Heart Call was a grand slam. Looking forward to partnering with you again! JT
Posted on Google Google
Barbara Stark profile picture
Barbara S
June 3, 2022
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+0
A wonderful experience from start to finish! A superior auctioneer and, in addition, she is a terrific resource for ideas and suggestions. Extremely detailed, great follow-up, and provides personalized and tailored services. Our organization has engaged the Gala Gal for our major fundraising events for several years now and we will continue to do so for many years to come. A super talented and experienced professional all the way! A++++++

Owner's reply
Barbara, this is so kind, thank you. It has been a great pleasure to help you and Milagro Center to celebrate successes to date and build for the future. Here's to more years! JT
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Hardy Smith profile picture
Hardy S
March 18, 2022
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Jenelle has an amazing wealth of knowledge on how to create a successful fundraising event. If your nonprofit is considering a charitable auction or wants to increase the results of the auction you have-The Gala Gal is THE go-to expert you should be working with!

Owner's reply
Thank you, Hardy! I had a great time fielding questions on your AFP webinar this week. Happy to help anytime.
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Laura McCann profile picture
Laura M
March 18, 2022
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Animal Rescue Coalition (ARC) has retained Jenelle as the auctioneer for our annual fundraiser for the past four years. Jenelle does not just show up the evening of the event. She works with our organization for months prior, providing expert guidance around the decisions which maximize donor engagement. This year was the most successful fundraiser in the history of our nonprofit. We attribute a large part of this achievement to Jenelle's involvement, her experience as an auctioneer, preparation, familiarity with our donor base and of course, the energy she generates in the room. We highly recommend her.

Owner's reply
Laura, thank you. ARC does such amazing things not just for Sarasota but for multiple surrounding counties as well. Countless animals (and owners!) have better lives because of ARC services. Thanks for all you do! JT
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Brittny Fuchs profile picture
Brittny F
January 3, 2022
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Jenelle provided exceptional support to our organization as we prepared for our live auction. Her on-site involvement the day of our event was wonderful. Her professionalism and expertise is unmatched. She instantly connected with our guests, and as a result we had a very successful event. Thank you!

Owner's reply
Brittny, thank you! It was such a pleasure to work with you, and the event was beautiful! Looking forward to next December :)
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Laurie Hochman profile picture
Laurie H
December 22, 2021
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Jenelle is a 5-star plus! It's all the little details and preparation that make the organization's fundraising event soar. Her commitment to excellence can be observed in the final event experience. The sooner you bring Jenelle in to an event the better, this allows her share & implement experiences and best practices.

Owner's reply
Thank you, Laurie! I appreciate how very easy it is to work with you, and of course the great support from you and your team. Anyone would be lucky to work with you!
Posted on Google Google
Robin Sathan profile picture
Robin S
December 14, 2020
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Our annual in person fundraising event was canceled in the spring. We thought that was it until next year, until Janelle suggested we hold a virtual event. Being technology novices, we weren't sure. Janelle said she would help us. And, she followed through and guided us all the way from step 1 to our successful result. Janelle is knowledgeable, professional, detail oriented, creative and fun to work with. Our event exceeded expectations! We look forward to working with Janelle in the future. Robin Sathan

Owner's reply
Robin, your attention to detail REALLY helped! Congrats on such a fun event :) JT
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Trisha Brauer profile picture
Trisha B
June 17, 2020
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Gala Gal's knowledge, professionalism, and passion is next level. If you are looking for a partner to grow your in-person event or virtual event, look no further. Her strategies and execution will take your event to the next level.

Owner's reply
Same, Trisha, same! You’re a blessing to everyone in Greater KC!
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Eve O'Donnell profile picture
Eve O
June 11, 2020
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Jenelle was professional and amazing to work with. She provided A++++ service from start to finish and made me feel as if I was the only event she was working on. Her passion really shows and I can't wait to work with her again!

Owner's reply
Ahh, that's awesome, thanks, Eve! You are that rare mix of big picture visionary and attention to detail. Let's do it again in October!
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Mary Dietterle profile picture
Mary D
March 14, 2020
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+0
Jenelle has given our annual fundraising event new life! Our numbers are up since we started working with her, but even more than that, the guests at the event pull me aside to tell me how great she is! Jenelle brings her experience and calming presence to us during the planning process and then she brings the audience to life at the event. We couldn't ask for more!

Owner's reply
Ahh, thanks Mary, that’s so great! We’ve had great results and you have terrific supporters. Plus, you’re awesome :;
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It’s Genius, SignUp Genius

October 20, 2025 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
a logo for SignUp Genius

This week a terrific nonprofit in Orlando is hosting their 6th annual online auction benefiting programs for seniors. This is no ordinary online auction – there are over 300 items to bid on! Unlike an online auction happening during a gala where people just grab their winnings that night, this online-only event means there are over 300 baskets and certificates that will need to be picked up next week at their office!

HOW do they manage smooth and organized item handovers the easy way? With SignUp Genius. Setting it up is fast, easy and can even be free to use. Simply add the link to your winning invoices and you’re all set to have all their purchases together before their appointment. Give this handy tool a try.

Comments are closed - Categories: Charity, Event Logistics, Online Auctions, Technology

Cool Committee Recognition

July 17, 2025 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
An AI-generated image of 7 women

I learned about a new live auction idea from a nonprofit in Boca Raton. As the very first auction opportunity, the committee members slowly rose from their seats around the room and took turns gathering in front of the stage as their names were read. Each was holding a gift (a wrapped gift basket, bottle of wine, framed certificate) and all of the gifts became one package that the top bidder would win. It was a great way to shine a spotlight on each individual (literally!) and create a unique live auction opportunity not to be found at any other gala. As you know, creating signature live auction lots only available at your event one night a year is another great way to set your fundraiser apart, give you a marketing hook, and build traditions.

Shoot me an email if you try this bright idea!

(image generated in Google Gemini)

Comments are closed - Categories: Consulting, Great Ideas, Live Auctions

A brunch raised how much??

March 11, 2025 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
an event space with many decorated tables

I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the Development team from the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus. Their signature event, Brunch on the Bay, held its 30th Anniversary recently. Thirty years! That kind of legacy clearly takes hard work, creativity, and a lovingly supportive community. Famously known for its lobster tails (!) and more than 20 other amazing restaurant stations, it’s one of the only events I do that is ideally suited for an open-air tent. They do a great job of mission messaging, and the crowd gives enthusiastically in the Paddle Raise. Deciding all those years ago to brand a brunch instead of a nighttime gala has made USF S-M stand out in a sea of other fundraisers.

If your team isn’t thinking before each event about how to stand out and be memorable, you’re missing an opportunity to build community and loyalty.

a testimonial from a nonprofit executive

Comments are closed - Categories: Charity, Donation Appeals, Fund a Need, GALA GAL Case Study

Large Live Auction Handout

February 12, 2025 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
a handout with text and small images

When I teach my 3-day BOOTCAMP for Benefit Auctioneers class to aspiring fundraisers across the country, one part of Tab 1 is an entire seminar condensed into a few pages called “65 Ways to Create Prepared Bidders.” Yes, there are literally at least 65 ways that you and your auctioneer can creatively promote your live auction items and get your attendees educated and excited for what’s next.

One of the simplest, cheapest and most effective is a large Live Auction Handout. The one shown fully explains 10 items and has an image for each. We choose to do this on a 11″ x 14″ sheet so that the text is actually readable, but you could use both sides of a smaller size. This is inexpensive and practical because it can be edited up to the final day for accuracy (instead of catalog descriptions written 2 weeks prior).

THERE IS NO DOWNSIDE TO PREPARING YOUR GUESTS TO GIVE. Seriously, a little louder for those in the back, as they say. You get one night, once a year. Do everything you can to create prepared bidders who are excited about the upcoming opportunities instead of dreading your auction.

Comments are closed - Categories: Better Buyers, Consulting, Event Logistics, Great Ideas, Live Auctions

That final “Donate Now” text

January 14, 2025 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
image of a text message asking for a donation

So, your Fund-a-Need is complete, live auction is over, Last Hero donations tallied, Paddle Drop numbers collected. You might also have wrapped up your raffle, handed over the wines pulled, and sold some swag.

Now, it’s time to make that one last ask, and it helps to make sure the amount you’re seeking is authentic and the size of the ask is proportionate to what you’ve already raised. Don’t round your number from $14, 324 to $15,000! Nope, state exactly what you need to hit your $100,000 goal. One person might step up and give the whole amount; multiple people might be nudged just enough to give a little bit more.

Typically this ask goes out as an end-of-the-evening text, but it could go out the next day or even the first work day following the event. Make the ask, mention your mission, and MAKE SURE to thank everyone as wholeheartedly as you can.

Comments are closed - Categories: Consulting, Donation Appeals, Great Ideas

A better way to do Desserts

December 10, 2024 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
A platter of bite-size desserts

One Best Practice I always recommend is to HOLD DESSERT until after the fundraising is completed. There’s a lot of psychology and methodology behind this strategic decision.

1) Having a pre-plated dessert already on the tables is anti-climactic. It takes away from your centerpieces, mission messaging and place settings you’ve worked so hard to design. Plus, it’s cluttered.

2) Dessert can be used as a carrot, the big reveal you dangle to generate anticipation. Your auctioneer can say, “Right now our chefs are preparing a fantastic array of desserts behind the scenes, so in the meantime let’s do some fundraising…” It’s been shown many times that some people will leave early once they feel they’ve gotten all the components of the event they paid for. In other words, once they’ve had dessert, a portion of your folks don’t anticipate trying to bid in the live auction (or don’t have the money to give at that level) and will think it’s ok to “beat the line at valet” and leave before your Fund-a-Need appeal gets a chance to stir their hearts.

3) Holding dessert and serving it IMMEDIATELY – as in, within seconds – of the end of the live auction or Paddle Raise or Last Hero or Paddle Drop or raffle winner gives everyone a reason to stay in their seats, get hooked in by the band’s first song, relax and enjoy more aspects of the event you worked so hard to plan.

4) Smaller desserts make more sense, and holding them off for a while gives people a break to digest their entrees without feeling rushed by waitstaff eager to clear plates.

So, think about changing to bite-sized desserts to celebrate all the money you just raised and continue enjoying the evening!

Comments are closed - Categories: Consulting, Event Logistics, Great Ideas

Add a Countdown Clock

October 10, 2024 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
Image of a Countdown Clock

Here it is, the fastest, easiest, most effective addition I’m seeing lately: adding a bold countdown on your big screen(s) at the front of the room to alert the audience that in exactly 12 minutes and 34 seconds you’re expecting their complete attention. Your emcee, auctioneer, or Voice of God announcer can make periodic reminders during this time as well. I like a 10- or 15-minute countdown (enough time for folks to refresh their drinks, wrap up conversations, find their tables, place a few more auction bids, etc.) On YouTube you will find many different themed styles, or you can make your own in Canva. It’s best to embed the timer rather than link to it, as a live link might have ads pop up. This visual cue has proven to be very effective at preparing an unfocused crowd to now give their attention to the stage and speakers.

Comments are closed - Categories: Consulting, Event Logistics, Great Ideas, Technology

Benefit Auction Summit 2024

September 3, 2024 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
A conference name badge

It’s that time again!

If you’ve followed along with me over the years, you may remember that there’s only one national conference for fundraising auctioneers, and it takes place a few days before Labor Day weekend.

It’s always a sort of family reunion of fundraising professionals, and this year was no exception, with friends from CA, MN, TX, NH and many other states (and even Canada!)

This year we had speakers reminding us to listen more to our nonprofit clients before offering solutions, to be more compelling in our storytelling, and to organize the steps we take during the several months of pre-event planning.

I got several good takeaways to bring to you this fall and into next spring. Continuing education keeps me fresh and able to share the latest and best ideas with you. Let’s chat!

Comments are closed - Categories: About GALA GAL, Auctioneers, Continuing Education

Auction in the Round

August 8, 2024 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
A stage in the center of a ballroom

Have you seen this? Done it?

Occasionally I’ll get a nonprofit client who wants to put the stage in the center of the ballroom with tables on all four sides.

The advantages? It’s an uncommon layout, making your gala look and feel different; it puts more tables close to the stage, thus providing more “front row” sponsor seating; it puts your auctioneer in closer proximity to more tables versus the stage at the narrow end of a long room.

The disadvantage? (And this is a big one!) – Your speakers and your auctioneer will have their backs to 50% of the audience at all times! This can’t be emphasized too much: you are disenfranchising half of your audience the entire program. This can negatively impact both your live auction and your Fund-a-Need paddle raise donations, since your auctioneer must be constantly spinning onstage to catch and acknowledge the bid cards. These extra seconds give time for the patrons to change their minds, hesitate, and put that bid card down.

While it might look intriguing, if you decide to auction in the round, plan ahead to have confident, outgoing bid spotters in all 4 quadrants to help catch those raised paddles and ensure you capture every intended dollar for your org.

Comments are closed - Categories: Consulting, Event Logistics, Live Auctions

Easy Uses for AI

July 9, 2024 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
a graphic for AI

So, are you using AI for your nonprofit? If so, are you enjoying it? Finding it helpful, or just confusing? Or, are you freaked out yet?

Two easy uses I’ve found so far:

  1. With the Auctria online auction software, there’s built in AI to rewrite your auction package descriptions to make them more compelling
  2. Use https://designer.microsoft.com/image-creator to create free AI images in seconds for posts or when you need an image for an online auction entry.

There are myriad other AI uses for nonprofits. Remember when using it to write long-form text, go back and tweak it to make it your own message in your own voice.

Comments are closed - Categories: Consulting, Online Auctions, Technology