The Region 6 scholarship and professional development auction during the annual workshop is a popular event each year, with over one hundred silent auction items, 30+ live auction items, along with the spirited competition of the book nook and tee shirt drop. What makes a great auction item? That is a loaded question (and a good one), and there are some practical things to consider when choosing an item to donate.
From experience, here is a “top ten” item list people bid on the most for both live and silent auctions:
- Items handmade by YOU, our talented members! This means accessories, jewelry, tools, books and more.
- Items that can be transported easily in checked baggage at the airport or on the drive home. A bidder may love the item, but if they wonder “how am I going to get that home” that might make them balk.
- Items from vacations, especially handmade. Many members take fabulous trips!
- Items that interpreters on a budget otherwise couldn’t afford—like electronic equipment to help them reach a wider audience at their sites.
- Wine and craft beer are always good items. Gift baskets make great auction items.
- Rare books, such as autographed first editions.
- Gift certificates, gift cards, or tickets to a site within the region.
- The occasional “white elephant” (one interpreter’s unwanted gift is another interpreter’s next costumed character). Please donate items that are intact or gently used; broken items don’t get high bids.
- Remember that many members bid more when the item has a compelling story.
- Books and non-dated tee shirts for the “book nook” and “tee drop.” You must be there to be part of it.
For more information, visit the Scholarship Auction webpage, or cut to the chase and download the Scholarship Auction form here.
See you in Rogers!
Lori Spencer, Auction Chair
