Menu

Orgs We've Helped!

TEXT or CALL me!

407-791-1360 in Tampa, FL

Gala Gal, Inc
Gala Gal, Inc
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
29 Google reviews
Posted on Google Google
Hillary Hahmann profile picture
Hillary H
May 15, 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Posted on Google Google
Maritza Rivera profile picture
Maritza R
December 1, 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Posted on Google Google
Adum Auction Gala profile picture
Adum A
November 17, 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Posted on Google Google
Jeremy Elliott profile picture
Jeremy E
November 13, 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
+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
Posted on Google Google
Jamila Smith profile picture
Jamila S
November 12, 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
+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
Posted on Google Google
LaTasha Keener profile picture
Latasha K
January 23, 2025
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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!
Posted on Google Google
Humane Society Of Charlotte profile picture
Humane S
November 21, 2022
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
+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
Posted on Google Google
Hardy Smith profile picture
Hardy S
March 18, 2022
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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.
Posted on Google Google
Laura McCann profile picture
Laura M
March 18, 2022
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Posted on Google Google
Brittny Fuchs profile picture
Brittny F
January 3, 2022
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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 :)
Posted on Google Google
Laurie Hochman profile picture
Laurie H
December 22, 2021
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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
Posted on Google Google
Trisha Brauer profile picture
Trisha B
June 17, 2020
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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!
Posted on Google Google
Eve O'Donnell profile picture
Eve O
June 11, 2020
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
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!
Posted on Google Google
Mary Dietterle profile picture
Mary D
March 14, 2020
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
+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 :;
Verified by Trustindex
Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

Find me on LinkedIn!

NAA Credentials

Benefit Auction Specialist (BAS)

Editor of this How-to Charity Auction book

Boost Your Benefit Auction book

“70-Point Venue Checklist” FREE DOWNLOAD

Free Gala Venue Checklist

Grab this 70-point Venue Checklist when planning your Gala Fundraiser!

Find It Now

>

© 2012 BlogName - All rights reserved.

Firstyme WordPress Theme.
Designed by Charlie Asemota.

►Working Women of Central Florida

July 12, 2017 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
photo of speaker Jenelle Taylor

Thanks to Jessica Rivelli from Working Women of Tampa Bay for the invite to speak!

Did you miss it?

I’m happy to speak to your board, your staff, or civic groups like Rotary, Kiwanis or chambers of commerce.

Of course I can talk about auctions, and how to best support the causes you believe in, but some people don’t know that I also speak nationally on branding and marketing.

Things are changing all the time in social media.

Isn’t it time you got some help?

Call me to chat: Jenelle @ 407-791-1360 cell

Comments are closed - Categories: About GALA GAL, Consulting, Grab Bag, social media, Technology

►Who’s the “Voice” of your nonprofit?

July 5, 2017 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
photo of branding handout

Who’s the “voice” of your social media posts?

I’m a huge, huge fan of Entrepreneur magazine. In fact, if you’re not already following them on Facebook, seriously, click over there and do it right now.

I’ll wait.

It’s that important.

If you want to be smarter about, well – anything – you should be following Entrepreneur magazine on Facebook.

Their posts are 2- or 3-minute reads about stuff you want to know, and I guarantee you’ll see something each week you want to click on and open.

By the way, I don’t get anything for promoting them. I’m just a super fan.

When I was researching for my presentation to the Working Women of Central Florida, I came across this awesome article Entrepreneur mag posted, “22 Statistics That Prove the Value of Personal Branding.”

It’s about how we (people, you and me) connect better with people, not companies, and you’ll do yourself and your organization a 561% favor by letting your employee’s personalities show when they share posts about your cause.

Since you can control the tone, images and message you put out there, sit down and really think about how you want to be perceived. Is your org inspiring? Are your clients beautiful? Are your services useful? And isn’t life just funny sometimes? (NOTE: If you don’t yet know about FUBI, read about it here.)

You can even let different people shine in their elements. If you’ve got a stellar soul who can communicate all you want to say on all your platforms, give him or her a raise! Otherwise, try trusting your inner circle with the platform that best matches his or her personality, and see if you don’t get more likes, follows, and engagement from your fans.

Comments are closed - Categories: Board members, Charity, Consulting, Grab Bag, Other Money Makers, social media, Technology

►VIDEO – Selling an Inside Joke!

June 21, 2017 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
photo of auctioneer GALA GAL Jenelle Taylor

Sell More Memories, Less Stuff!

This might be my favorite video clip ev-er!

It starts at $100 and you’ll never guess where we end up 🙂

Watch the short VIDEO on my You Tube channel.

There’s a lot I love about this clip – this small crowd of 160 solid supporters, the clear joy of giving in the room, and the fact that I’ve done this event for years so we’ve built this great rapport!

(Sidenote: we really do have the best job in the world.)

Anyway, the winning bidder doesn’t even keep the hat! It’s all in fun, a vehicle for donations, and a few minutes we will all remember as a highlight. Can your event do that?

Sell more memories to make your event a signature celebration of your cause.

Not sure how? Just call me: 407-791-1360 in Tampa.

 

Comments are closed - Categories: About GALA GAL, Auctioneers, Charity, Consulting, Live Auctions

►VIDEO – Only 2 Live Auction Items

June 7, 2017 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
photo of charity auctioneer GALA GAL Jenelle Taylor

On the catwalk selling just 2 auction items!

Here’s a quick video on my You Tube channel from May 2017, when I sold just 2 live auction items (and raised double what we’d expected!)

Watch the VIDEO on You Tube, click here

There’s no one perfect answer to how many live auction items you should have.

I always ask my clients, “How long will your crowd pay attention?”

That’s a good place to start!

But it depends on if your event is a weeknight (ends earlier) or a weekend, what else you’re trying to accomplish that night, what your items are, if you have deep pockets and big spenders in the room, and several other factors.

Believe it or not, selling just 2 or 3 items is just as challenging as selling 18!

Call me (407-791-1360) and I’ll help you figure out how many items are best for your event.

Comments are closed - Categories: About GALA GAL, Auctioneers, Live Auctions

►2017 Bookings in full swing!

November 16, 2016 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
photo of Jenelle Taylor

It pays to hire a professional!

After a fantastic 2016, the GALA GAL team is looking ahead to an invigorating new year, and we’re looking for you!

Since 2002, I have worked with hundreds of nonprofits across Florida, and trained hundreds of fundraising auctioneers across the country through my private BOOTCAMP for Benefit Auctioneers course.

I’m available to help most any cause, and this year I find my heart being pulled to social justice causes, the underdog, the underfunded and hugely impactful.

If you’re making a difference in the world, I want to use my 14 years of fundraising to increase your impact, raise your revenue, and expand your outreach. You are committed to moving America forward, and so am I. Let’s plan your biggest fundraising auction yet for 2017!

Comments are closed - Categories: Consulting, Live Auctions

►Auctioneer Style ~ Choose the One You Want to Watch!

March 22, 2016 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
Is your auctioneer entertaining?

Is your auctioneer entertaining?

I’ve been working in the auction industry since 2001, and specifically with fundraising auctions since 2002. I’ve been to auction school (Go Nashville Auction School – whoot whoot!) and I’ve been onstage all across Florida conducting benefit auctions since 2007. However, I don’t “chant”. You probably think all auctioneers sound the same, and maybe you can’t even pick out what they’re saying when it all goes by so fast.

My onstage style is quite different. I joke with folks that “I flirt with the audience for money,” and – as you’ll see in this YouTube clip GALA GAL Jenelle sells a South Africa Trip – I talk directly with the bidders, invite the audience to encourage higher bidding, and basically just charm them into staying in the game. At all times, the bidders know how much they’re bidding and aren’t confused, scared, or intimidated, even when we get up above $20,000!

Your guests should leave saying, “That was the best auctioneer I’ve ever seen!”

If they don’t, give me a call 🙂

Comments are closed - Categories: Auctioneers, Consulting, Live Auctions

►More Donations During Your Fund-A-Need

March 21, 2016 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
photo of Jenelle Taylor

It pays to hire a professional!

This spring I tried out a fundraising technique popularized by a colleague of mine in the San Francisco Bay area. He calls it The Run Around, and it’s a way to encourage much more participation at your final fundraising level. By taking the emphasis off of the size of each gift and focusing on getting more and more people to give (and give again), you can raise more money AND end your Fund-A-Need ask on an upbeat note with the crowd’s support. Check out this 5-minute clip on YouTube to see how we raised $4200 with a $1500 item. GALA GAL does The Run Around

Comments are closed - Categories: Consulting, Other Money Makers

►Mobile Bidding Considerations

July 7, 2015 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
photo of auction display

Auction Bidding is Enhanced by Displays

Today a client asked me

“Quick question – mobile bidding. Does it enhance an auction? Have you seen increased participation (read larger bids) utilizing mobile bidding?”

and I replied:

 Good question!

Typically mobile only makes sense when there are a lot of attendees, a lot of auction items (100+) and the silent auction revenue is $30,000+.

Pros:

IF people use it, they can set max bids and not have to either log back in or walk to a table – most mobile bidding systems can just continue to bid for them up to a set maximum.

Auction displays can take less space

Everyone can see all the auction items if they wish (on a device) without walking around

You can close the bidding later

Cons:

Typically costs $3000-$5000+

Either you have to pay for one of the mobile company’s staff to be on site (could add $1000), or you’re 100% responsible for any kinks or problems. Unless you have a savvy tech person, this could add significant stress.

It can be hard to get people to engage in mobile bidding for several reasons:

 ~Some require downloading an app, though some just have a web address people key in

~Some say mobile is less social, since people move around less and must spend time staring at their phones

~Requires either than people use their cell phone data plans (and battery life) or the club has a reliable wi-fi connection that’s open to everyone; some mobile systems rely on wi-fi and can get bogged down or crash

Results:

Whether or not mobile adds revenue above and beyond the cost of using the technology is a source of heated debate! Just a few weeks ago auctioneers from around the country shared mixed reviews in an online forum. When the technology works as promised,  is adopted by the attendees and gets used, certainly there are benefits to being able to shop from anywhere in the venue and not have to physically revisit a bid sheet.

On the other side, paper silent auctions have worked for decades by generating that person-to-person, last-minute competitive bidding atmosphere, especially when your professional auctioneer is making announcements and making the auction closings fun for everyone in the room.

What mobile definitely does is eliminate the need to clerk, record, tally or key in silent auction purchases once bidding closes, and for some groups, that fact alone makes the technology worth several thousand dollars, just to eliminate checkout!

 There are 10-12 major mobile bidding companies nationwide, all scrambling for footing and market share. All have demos you can do or samples you can view.

Industry software leader Greater Giving has great educational info with just about everything you need to know about mobile here.

Because of the many pros and cons (and how those affect your overall revenue/schedule/logistics), it’s something you should ask your professional auctioneer about as early as possible.

Like this great client of mine did! Thanks for the question, Sara 🙂

Comments are closed - Categories: Better Buyers, Consulting, Event Logistics, Silent auctions, Technology

►Raffle pricing

May 1, 2015 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
poster showing raffle ticket pricing

Fingertips for $40

Recently a client asked me about raffle (Chance to Win drawings) pricing.

“I found this on-line as a guideline to selling tickets. Does this make sense?

Raffle ticket sales:  3 tickets for $5, 6 tickets for $10 and finger tip- to-finger tip $20″

Here’s my take:

1. Raffle chance pricing depends on the value of the prizes to be won.

2. Calculate the math equation: How much do you want the raffle to raise (have a goal),  who will be asked to buy tickets and what pricing feels exciting to them, and how many tickets (at what level) can you expect to sell? PRICE x QUANTITY = MONEY RAISED

3. In the example you found, “3-$5 and 6-$10” are the same odds, so there’s no incentive to spend $10 rather than $5.

4. The PURPOSE of unequal odds (increased chances for paying more) is to wildly slant the odds in favor of those more generous. We want to encourage folks to donate more. In Florida (and other states-check your state gaming statutes*) all chances to win do not have to be equal.

5. So, I like

3 – $10, 8 for $20, or fingertip-to-fingertip for $40.

That way the focus is just on selling $40 worth, and if someone is considering $20, have them grab a friend and get tons more chances by splitting the fingertip-to-fingertip (which might be 40-ish tickets)

If the prize(s) are smaller, you could go with 2-$5, 7-$10, fingertips for $20

*A reminder to always know and follow your state regulations on raffles, which often fall under gambling policies. In some states, nonprofits are limited to one per year or need a special license. In Florida (and other states) drawings are required to have a “no purpose necessary to be entered” option, which is why setting any pricing for a chance drawing must be disclosed as a “suggested donation” See the Florida statute here, and happy fundraising!

Comments are closed - Categories: Better Buyers, Charity, Consulting, Event Logistics, Other Money Makers, Raffles/Chance Drawings, Templates

►Another reason you need a female auctioneer!

April 17, 2015 - Author: Jenelle Taylor, CAI BAS
photo of Gala Gal and team

Study says men give more when the person fundraising is attractive

This morning I read a piece entitled “Men Strive To Give More To Charity When The Fundraiser Is Cute.”

Believe it or not, researchers found that both men and women donated more to online campaigns after they saw how much others had given. The men, however, gave an even larger increase to attractive females.

If that happened just by looking at a photo of the female asking for donations, could it be that the effect is magnified in person? When you put a charismatic, attractive female auctioneer on stage and give her a microphone to engage people about your cause, might that increase the competitive bidding in your audience? Think about it, every single time he or she bids again, that’s more dollars raised for you!

Combining the “all eyes on me” aspect of live auctions with a smiling, friendly female face is your recipe for awesome auction results.

Just ask my clients!

Comments are closed - Categories: About GALA GAL, Auctioneers, Better Buyers, Charity, Consulting, Live Auctions