Wesley Silent & Live Auction F.A.Q.
What is a Silent Auction?
A silent auction is part of our Gala event where popular items are displayed both online and in person, and supporters make mobile bids on their phones through the auction website.
What is a Live Auction?
A live auction is part of our Gala event where 5 - 8 AMAZING items are auctioned off by a live auctioneer in person at the Gala and party attendees bid against one another.
What is the Fund-a-Need?
Fund-a-Need is a wonderful opportunity for our community to dedicate donations for a specific area of need at Wesley. Fund-a-Need takes place at the end of our Live Auction, and everyone will have a chance to donate at their chosen giving level. This year, funds will go towards enhancing the school’s safety and security with state-of-the-art gates and other upgrades.
Why is it important that I help get Auction Items?
Our success depends on the quantity and quality of our items! As such, we appreciate all the help we can get when it comes to collecting unique and amazing items!
How do I procure items?
-Start with Friends and Family-
As you begin your search for silent auction items, start with the people you know best—your friends and family. When you tap into your network (and ask your friends to do the same), you are involving people who already care and are more likely to provide items (for little in return).
-Post to Social Media Accounts-
As part of your outreach to friends and family, don’t be afraid to post on your personal social media accounts.
-Ask Businesses-
As a friendly face and community contributor, sometimes asking the businesses that you frequent the most is the easiest way to secure more auction items. Ask your favorite businesses if they would consider donating an item or gift certificate. Businesses are generally happy to donate to nonprofit schools like ours. It is a great marketing opportunity for them, so it’s a win-win!
What should the items be worth?
We appreciate all donations and are particularly eager to include items valued at $50 or more.
What are the most popular Auction Items?
Here is some inspiration for you, in addition to the Class Themes:
Travel – All-Inclusive Trips, Vacation Homes, Weekend Getaways, Airline Tickets or Miles, Hotel Stays, Cruises, Travel related gift cards
Outings & Experiences - Live Tapings, Backstage Passes, Private Club Access (Magic Castle, Soho House, Club 33, etc.), Spa Days, Theme Park Tickets
Sports Tickets & Activities - Game Tickets, Box Seats, Golf Outings, Ski Passes, Yoga or Spin Classes, Outdoor Activities or Excursions
Music – Concert and Festival Tickets, Backstage Passes or a Chance to Meet the Artist, Music Lessons, Signed Instruments or Albums from Famous Musicians
Food – Restaurant Gift Certificates, Dinner and Wine Pairings, Cooking Classes, Chef’s Table Experiences
Specialty Items - Designer Handbags, Jewelry, New Technology (Computers, Speakers, VR, Drones, etc.), Home Gadgets
Have an idea for an Auction item/experience but don’t know where to start?
We love a good brainstorming session! Don’t hesitate to reach out to the Auction Chairs at wesleyPA@wesleyschool.org and we’ll help you formulate your idea into an amazing plan!
What are Class Themed Auction Items?
Join the other parents in your class by donating something that fits the Class Theme. We will assemble them into amazing packages to auction off in the silent or live auction at the Gala . You can choose to donate/purchase an item of any value for your Class Theme or have that item donated by your favorite business or maybe your place of work. Please visit the Class Themes page for an outline of the themes and detailed descriptions.
How do I get extra copies of the Business Solicitation Letter and Auction Donation Form?
Please reach out to the Development Office via email development@wesleyschool.org and we’d be happy to provide additional hard copies or even digital copies for you to use.
Once I have items to donate, who do I give them to?
Please deliver all donation items to the Development Office at Wesley, no later than May 4th.
Tammy, Dyllan, or Lindsey will know exactly what to do with them.
How do I provide a receipt to a Business for their donated item?
Not all businesses request or require receipts when they donate items for Auctions. However, should a business want or need a receipt, please have them check off the “I would like a copy of this form” box on the Auction Donation Form. Additionally, you can email the Development Office at development@wesleyschool.org and we’d be happy to provide one.
If I have any questions, who do I contact?
Email development@wesleyschool.org and someone from the development office will get back to you promptly. Additionally, you can also check in with Marissa Seeman or Lisa Lange, the Auction Chairs, by emailing wesleypa@wesleyschool.org.
