| Most nonprofit organizations that are planning a | | | | for their table. The real auctioneer will give them 30 |
| charity auction event find a way to get the | | | | seconds to sell the centerpiece of the table for as |
| centerpieces for the tables donated, or at a reduced | | | | much money as possible. They can only take bids |
| cost. Professional charity auctioneers and event | | | | from people sitting at their table and are encouraged |
| organizers sometimes differ on their opinion of | | | | to use an auctioneer chant. After the 30 seconds is |
| whether to sell the centerpieces or not. Some believe | | | | over, determine which "auctioneer" raised the most |
| that it is too much to ask of the guests who are | | | | money for their centerpiece. If possible, have a |
| already paying to be there, but some see it as | | | | simple award for the "Champion Auctioneer". If this is |
| another opportunity to raise money for the cause. | | | | an annual tradition, there may even be a past |
| Whichever way that you decide is right for your | | | | "Champion Auctioneer" in the crowd that can be |
| organization; here is a fun way to sell centerpieces | | | | recognized. |
| without overdoing it. It is used as an icebreaker to | | | | The professional charity auctioneer will start the live |
| get everyone in the crowd involved and it raises | | | | auction with the crowd already excited and having |
| some quick money in the process. | | | | fun. Most of them will have already participated by |
| When your auctioneer takes the stage to start the | | | | bidding at their table in a fun "mini" auction. It is a |
| auction, have him select a volunteer at each table | | | | wonderful way to get people laughing and happy as |
| and ask them to stand. They will be the "auctioneer" | | | | the "real" auction begins. |