Boost Live Auction Profits with a Dessert Dash Strategy
Elevate the energy and fundraising potential of your event by considering a "Dessert Dash," a thrilling addition to live auctions and gala affairs. Determine early on if you want to incorporate this dynamic game, establish your Dessert Dash rules, and choose when to play during the event. For maximum impact, consider placing it towards the end of the live auction or as a captivating 'closing event.' This strategic placement ensures heightened attention as the best items take center stage.
The Dessert Dash can provide a delightful interlude, allowing attendees to dash for delectable desserts before returning to the auction proceedings. Alternatively, it can serve as a festive conclusion to the live auction, letting participants savor their desserts with friends. Whatever your preference, follow the guide below to guarantee a seamlessly executed and successful Dessert Dash.
Procurement: If you make the decision to play this game at your auction, it is crucial to procure desserts ahead of time. To figure out how many desserts you need, you first have to have a rough attendance estimate. For example, if you know that 150 people purchased tickets and 8 people can sit at each table, you need at least 19 tables. So in this case, I would aim to secure 20 desserts, at least 1 per table.
Setup: A designated area or table is prepared with a variety of enticing desserts. These desserts can include cakes, pies, pastries, cookies, or any other sweet treats. Each dessert is typically presented on a separate platter or display, and their descriptions or names are prominently displayed. In addition to the dessert table set up, each table is equipped with plates, forks and a cutting/ serving utensil in order to cut and serve the desserts.
Bidding / Seating/ Rules: Before the Dessert Dash begins, attendees either have assigned tables or pick where they'd like to sit. Each table gets a Dessert Dash bid card specifically for their table. Bidders at each table write down the amount they're willing to donate for dessert on these cards. After everyone at the table has noted their donation amount, the cards are collected and the total for each table is calculated. The table with the highest donation is announced, and they get to dash to the dessert table first to choose a dessert to share. The table with the second-highest donation goes next, and the pattern continues.
Introduction: The auctioneer or event host introduces the Dessert Dash and explains the rules to the participants. The auctioneer will remind folks to include their bids on their table’s dessert dash bid card and will have the clerking service collect them when the bid cards are complete. They also typically highlight the delicious desserts available and emphasize the fundraising aspect of the activity.
Dash Commencement: The Dessert Dash begins with the highest bidding participants selecting their preferred dessert. They rush to the table, aiming to secure their top choice. The next highest table’s bid will be announced next, and so on. This continues until all participants have had an opportunity to make their selection.
Time Limit: A specific time limit is set for each round of the Dash. This creates a sense of urgency and adds an element of excitement. Participants must make their dessert selection within the allotted time. Usually it's quick.
Strategy & Competition: As participants make their dessert selections, the atmosphere can become competitive and lively. Participants strategize to choose their favorite desserts or popular items while being mindful of the time constraints.
The Dessert Dash adds an interactive and engaging element to the live auction or gala, encouraging friendly competition among attendees. It not only generates additional funds for the cause but also creates a memorable and enjoyable experience for participants. At the concussion of the Dash, everyone enjoys their desserts as the remainder of the live auction commences.
