As a full-spectrum fundraising company, we often do not suggest that our clients devote too much of their budget toward line items that do not yield a clear return on the dollar. One such area can fall under the category of  event decor.  However, there ARE ways to set the mood or add to the thematic element of your event on a budget.  One of the most effective areas to do so is to incorporate the right kind of LIGHTING!

The photo above was taken at the recent auction and event for Childpeace Montessori School, held at Pure Space. Our local Portland rental and production company, West Coast Event Productions, helped set the mood for their theme, A Grimm & Grey Fairytale by projecting gobos of trees to allow guests to feel that they were in a forest.

At another recent auction for Lewis & Clark Law School, the students putting on the event added LED lighting on the food displays (catering was beautifully done by Mezzaluna) to help add to the Bollywood theme.

We have so many fabulous resources for lighting rentals in Portland, some of which are:

Hollywood Lighting

West Coast Event Productions

Filed under: BA360: Auction Tips by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

Click on Image for Source

One of the most wonderful aspects of our jobs here at Benefit Auctions 360, LLC is having the opportunity to partner with a wide range of organizations who’s collective mission is to improve upon some aspect of the world we live in.  There truly seems to be an organization for every cause and with open and carrying hearts every one of them is making our world a better place.

Often when I tell people what I do, they say something like, “Wow that sounds really inspiring to be surrounded by so much philanthropy.” And it does. But, do you want to know what feels even better? Taking part in the collective force to make the world a better place! Not only by becoming a passive do-gooder and giving to the cause that inspires you, but by taking action in our everyday lives, and by volunteering!

Our team here at BA360 recently decided to start up a regular blog post categorized under “Helping Hands.” Through this, we hope to inspire random acts of kindness and organized do-good activities that you can implement in your every day lives! This is the kind of living that we believe in! So, we hope you will join us and join that collective force to improve upon this beautiful world we live in.

Did you know that more than 200 million people around the world volunteer? The motivation to do so may come from many different places, but the important thing is that they are doing it! Over five years ago, I began volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters and I was continually humbled by how much I seemed to learn from the experience about myself and about life in general. Though we are no longer enrolled in the program, as she is now in college, we continue to keep in regular contact.  My years of involvement taught me the importance of community service and most of all, I learned that our hearts don’t have limits or boundaries when it comes to love and kindness.

There are so many fabulous organizations in the Pacific Northwest and around the world just waiting for you to volunteer with them. To find out which one might be the best fit for you and which organizations currently are in need, visit www.idealist.org and start browsing through the many volunteer opportunities! It is a fantastic resource to know about — they essentially connect people who want to make a difference in our world with like-minded individuals and organizations.

Stay tuned here on our blog as we continue to share ideas on ways to make a difference and be inspired to be a do-gooder!

Filed under: BA360: Helping Hands by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

Venue selection is a critically important part of your fundraising event planning! If you are new to this blog, be sure to check out our List of Portland Venues, which is constantly being updated and added to as so many fantastic new venues continue to pop up around town!

Just this last weekend, American Cancer Society held their Hope Ball in a new space to Portland – Castaway, which was beautifully done.  So, we have made sure to add the venue to the Venue Tour Section on our blog!

If you own or manage a space that you do not see listed here, please contact us with details!

Filed under: BA360: Venue Tour by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

It’s one thing to throw a really great party. It’s another thing to throw a great party that in all actuality is an unbelievably fantastic fundraising auction and event! And Our House of Portland has the latter perfected in every way!

The 2012 Our House auction and event was an epic celebration on every level! Co-Chairs Gary Nelson and Minh Tran, crafted a clever way to get guests into the groove of giving with this year’s theme – The Age of Aquarius! Though an event theme is only a small fraction on the color wheel of auction and event planning, Our House of Portland is truly gifted when it comes to capturing the essence of that which inspires their supporters, and utilizing that essence as inspiration to create annual events that resonate into both their donor base and throughout the Portland community!

A vital part of the Portland community since 1988, Our House has been providing a continuum of compassionate care and vital resources to people with advanced HIV/AIDS who are having difficulty managing independent living. By respecting the dignity, spirit, worth, needs and rights of everyone they touch, they have been inspiring people with HIV/AIDS to live well – celebrating life and letting the sunshine in for nearly 25 years.

And this year’s annual auction and event, The Age of Aquarius was a celebration of life and living well in its fullest form! With over 450 guests, supporters turned out in droves, ready to strut their stuff and raise their paddles high to pay tribute to the work of this treasured organization.

Our House supporter Judge Kemp, and auctioneer Johnna Wells getting into the groove of giving!

Though a theme is not in any way shape or form a solo conduit for success when it comes to fundraising (an entire year of strategic development and planning on behalf of the Our House staff, c0-chairs, board of directors, committee, and Benefit Auctions 360 was thoughtfully executed in an effort to achieve such sensational results), it can certainly put the FUN back into fundraising. And when guests are having  fun, it’s more likely that they will not only champion your celebration throughout the entire evening, but it’s also more likely that they will be moved and motivated to give financially as well!  And such was certainly the case at this year’s auction and event for Our House. Raising close to $400,000, this lively auction and event secured record breaking support from steadfast donors whose support let the sunshine in on the work of Our House, and celebrated the lives of those that they touch!

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap, BA360: Auction Tips, BA360: Client Profile by Johnna Wells
No Comments »

Every spring, the Portland fundraising auction season kicks off with Schoolhouse Supplies annual Celebrity Spelling Bee!

This year’s 12th Annual OnPoint Community Credit Union’s Celebrity Spelling Bee was wildly successful! The competition was stiff as local celebrities such as KGW News Channel 8′s own Reggie Aqui, Portland Trail Blazer, Nolan Smith, and Dave Dahl of Dave’s Killer Bread, to name just a few, spelled support for Schoolhouse Supplies in an attempt to win the coveted title Celebrity Spelling Champion!

Celebrity Contestant, Pat Janowski {Photo Credit, Joni Shimabukuro}

Donors and community supporters turned out in droves to cheer on the contestants, and showcase support for Schoolhouse Supplies – an award-winning nonprofit that supports public education in Portland by giving students and teachers free classroom supplies. As Oregon’s only volunteer-run free store for teachers, their shelves are stocked with supplies generously donated by the community, providing teachers with the classroom supplies needed to encourage the learning process for all students.

We at Benefit Auctions 360 have had the distinct pleasure of partnering with Schoolhouse Supplies for the last seven years, championing their work, and sending a message to our area youth, that we believe in the potential of every child! That we believe that every child deserves to have the tools they need to succeed!

Johnna Wells of Benefit Auctions 360, alongside Schoolhouse Supplies Mascot, Pencil Pete!

Partnered with a Special Appeal, and our savvy celebrity spellers, our community of donors and supporters helped us to raise over $200,000 for Schoolhouse Supplies!

As the evening came to a close, Live Wire! Radio’s own, Pat Janowski became a two time champion, taking home the coveted title - 2012 Celebrity Spelling Champion!  What a night! Our sincere thanks to our community of steadfast supporters for supporting our area schools and supporting the work of Schoolhouse Supplies!

2012 Celebrity Spelling Champion, Pat Janowski {Photo Credit, Joni Shimabukuro}

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap, BA360: Client Profile by Johnna Wells
No Comments »

If you have the opportunity to tune into OPB this evening for Antiques Roadshow, one of our Associate Auctioneers and Emcees, Judith Rizzio, will be interviewed on the show with her armoire “baby chest” as the subject of discussion. For those of you who are as big of fans as antiques and collectibles as we are here, it should be a lot of fun to watch!

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/roadshow/index.html

Filed under: BA360: Auctioneer Profile by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

Wow, it’s hard to believe we just said goodbye to 2011 and are already well into 2012! We here at Benefit Auctions 360 hope you had a cozy and festive holiday season—and are excited for all that this new year will bring. We’re so looking forward to getting into the swing of 2012 with some of our favorite longtime clients as well as new ones we can’t wait to get to know better.

But first we’d like to thank all the incredible clients who made this past fall fundraising season such a thrilling success! We were honored to work on 25 events, keeping us busy supporting such important organizations: Agri-Business Council of Oregon, Albertina Kerr Centers, Amy Roloff Charity Foundation, Basic Rights Oregon, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon, Boys and Girls Aid, Bridge Meadows, Cat Adoption Team, The Circus Project, Columbia Land Trust, DoveLewis, FolkTime, Incight, The International School, Maurice Lucas Foundation, Muscular Dystrophy Association, National MS Society, Native American Youth Family Center, Oregon Food Bank, Providence Hood River Hospital Foundation, Providence Festival of Trees, Raphael House, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Rose Festival Foundation, and Trauma Intervention Program.

We saw disco dance parties, star-studded red carpets, laugh-inducing photo booths, even an emcee running the room from a Segway transformed into a ship at The Circus Project’s “CircOdyssey.” But most of all we saw generous donors, emotional special appeals, and enthusiastic audiences getting into the spirit of giving, and over the past four months these incredible organizations raised close to $5 million to continue their remarkable work. We couldn’t be happier to be a part of such success!

Here’s to an equally as wonderful 2012!

Filed under: BA360: News by Liz Hummer
No Comments »

As fundraising auctioneers, we are always working hard to maximize the amount of financial support we can help generate at our clients’ events. But sometimes the riches come in other forms as well—like laughs.

That’s the case at the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon annual Comedy Benefit, and has been every time we have the pleasure of partnering with them over the past five years. As at events in the past, this year’s 14th Annual Comedy Benefit at downtown Bend’s Tower Theater featured two nationally-recognized comedians, Jake Woodmansee and Jason Love, one getting the crowd energized before the live auction and one wrapping up the night.

It’s a great example of what we suggest to our clients: to find an entertaining and engaging theme to weave throughout the event, one that will amp up the crowd and create an exciting bidding environment when it’s time to throw out the first auction package. Indeed, BA360 Auctioneer Randy Wells kept that excitement going as he auctioned off packages like a private poker party, year-long athletic club membership, 20-bottle instant “wine cellar” and fridge, and getaways to Italy, Cabo San Lucas and Bali.

While comedy may not be the right fit for every organization and their audience, but we’ve seen it be quite the success for BBBS. After all, isn’t it the Littles (kids) who are the most natural comedians of all?

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap, BA360: Auction Tips by Liz Hummer
No Comments »

More and more this year, it’s been so fun to watch our clients incorporating new technologies into their events. We first told you about the text-to-donate service from Qtego that was used at the Basic Rights Oregon event last month. And this past Saturday, the Cat Adoption Team showcased a variety of cool text services at their annual Whisker Wonderland Gala at the downtown Portland Hilton.

In addition to a text-to-donate campaign with proceeds going to renovating the five free-roaming cat colony rooms at the no-kill shelter in Sherwood, guests could text-to-bid on the silent auction items—complete with QR codes that you could quickly snap on your phone—and text-to-buy items at the CAT store (beds, collars, and other goodies for kitties at home).

As if you needed more reason to whip out the smart phone, CAT also announced their new Android app to browse through the adorable, adoptable cats at the shelter. iPhone users will have to stay tuned…

The dinner and auction itself was a blast as well, with a lively heads and tails game before 15 live auction packages flew off the bidding block. Guests loved the getaways to Bali and Italy, of course, but also swarmed over several wine country getaways (one with a hot air balloon ride, another with a winemaking lesson), a package of 12 amazing dates, a home makeover, and everyone’s favorite, the chance to make your cat a star in the 2013 CAT calendar complete with professional portraits for your pretty kitty.

I myself was tempted with that one, since my Pippy (who I adopted from CAT in April 2010) is the cutest cat I know. Just saying!

If you couldn’t make the event, you still have a chance to give to CAT through Willamette Week‘s 2011 Give!Guide, which is out today!

See more photos and the special video from Whisker Wonderland.

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap, BA360: Auction Tips by Liz Hummer
No Comments »

Last Friday night was sizzling at the Portland Art Museum, as supporters gathered to celebrate Basic Rights Oregon at their annual party. The theme, IGNITE, certainly got the party fired up, and the BA360 team was thrilled to throw on our dapper suits and sassy cocktail frocks to join the fun—which all told, raised more than $260,000 in support of LGBT rights!

Kate Kendall praising the hard work of BRO during dinner at IGNITE.

This year actually involved two events in one at the Museum’s Mark Building, directed by Samantha Swaim—a move that proved quite popular with the over 900 guests. The night began downstairs in the sunken ballroom with dinner by Vibrant Table, a rousing speech by Kate Kendall, the Executive Director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, and of course, an exciting live auction with packages that got the room buzzing. Think: an evening with Angels in America actor Wade McCollum; a visit to the Robert Reynolds Chefs Studio; getaways to Hawaii, San Francisco, and Italy; and a workout with rugby star Ben Cohen, to name a few.

BA360′s Johnna Wells on fire during the live auction!

They also took the time to pause and watch a new video to focus on a key goal of the night: to raise enough funds to run the Marriage Matters ads on statewide TV for another week. The new video showcased how minds—and hearts—can be changed to support the right to marry for all:

Meanwhile, upstairs in the Kridel Grand Ballroom, the spark for an epic dance party was getting ready to BLOW. UP. Guests stepped into the photo booth to answer the question, “What ignites you?” and then headed into the red-drenched ballroom with an illuminated bar front and center.

Guests answered the question with what matters most to them.

But even as the party heated up, the giving didn’t end, thanks to a new text-to-donate program powered by Qtego Auction. It was incredible to see the fundraising total rise exponentially on the big screens! And even as DJ Dan-o-mite and DJ Lunchlady got people to bust a move, they could still keep giving throughout the night in the spirit of celebration. It’s a promising technology that we’re excited to see in action.

Qtego-powered text-to-give gets started.

All in all, it was an event that tried new things and found that to be a roaring success! Want to see more photos of all the fun? Check out the BRO event’s Facebook page. (Thanks to Amaren Colosi, Jonny Schultz, and Rosemary Ragusa who photographed the event.)

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap, BA360: Auction Tips by Liz Hummer
1 Comment »

What ignites you? Equality. Family. Inclusion. Love. Community.

That’s the question that Basic Rights Oregon has been asking leading up to their annual celebration this weekend: IGNITE! A Party for LGBT Equality in Oregon. We’re so honored to be a part of this event and can’t wait to see what a rousing success it will be.

via IGNITE event site

If you’re not yet familiar with Basic Rights Oregon, the organization has worked for the past 15 years to end discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. They have grown from a passionate grassroots movement to an even more passionate statewide nonprofit, with more than 10,000 active contributors and 5,000 volunteers. At the same time, the conversation surrounding gay marriage has risen from a whisper to a headline-making news around the country. The message has become loud and clear: marriage, a symbol of love and the foundation of family, is a right that every person should have.

via LoveCommitmentMarriage.org

With the hope of putting a measure on the 2012 ballot to overturn the state constitutional amendment that defined marriage as being only between one man and one woman, Basic Rights Oregon launched their Love. Commitment. Marriage campaign to support “the freedom to marry for Oregon.” Perhaps you’ve seen the TV spots featuring couples talking about what marriage means to them—that marriage matters.

These ads have been running in heavy rotation for two weeks, but research shows an additional third week would have the most impact to gain the vote for marriage equality. Friday night’s fundraising efforts will be focused on this goal, helping this powerful message reach more and more people throughout the state. Even if you won’t be at the sold out donor dinner and auction, you can still contribute to the cause online.

And of course, everyone is invited to join the party later that evening. IGNITE is about celebrating the hard work to grant equality to all Oregonians—we’ll toast to that! Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, live music by Laura Gibson, and dancing to DJ Danomite and DJ Lunchlady—and pssst, a few surprises—in the Portland Art Museum’s Kridel Grand Ballroom. Tickets are $75 and still available online until Thursday. Join us as we party for equality!

Filed under: BA360: Client Profile, BA360: News, Event Preview by Liz Hummer
No Comments »

It’s fitting that I’m writing this blog with a big, purring kitty crawling all over my laptop, because it’s time for the always popular Dove Lewis Wet Nose Soiree this Saturday night!

The BA360 team certainly has a soft spot for our sweet animal companions (Johnna has her pup Oliver; Keely is mom to Belle the pug; and my aforementioned cat is named Pippy), and it means a lot to support the incredible work that Dove Lewis does to keep pets happy and healthy and honor the unique bond with their human pals.

At their largest annual event, animal lovers will enjoy an entire evening devoted to their furry best friends. Guests are even encouraged to use their pets as inspiration for their attire—perhaps a cat collar becomes a bracelet, or a dogs multi-colored coat guides the color of an entire ensemble—to “celebrate the love of your Wet Nose!”

In true Dove Lewis fashion, they’ve managed to blend the inevitable cuteness of animals with an elegant celebration at The Governor Hotel that will be the talk of the town. Tickets are still available by calling Candice Coleman at 503-535-3384 ($125 for General Admission, $175 for VIP).

Photos from last year’s Wet Nose Soiree by Erik Schultz (via Dove Lewis)

The party will begin at 6:00pm with a lively cocktail reception and extensive silent auction, including a golden ticket raffle and a “Super” silent auction with truly standout items. Of course, our own Johnna Wells will be there to lead an incredible live auction, including some must-bid packages like Blazers and Mariners tickets; a private concert; getaways to the Cannon Beach, France, and even an African Safari; and the opportunity to star with your own favorite wet nose on Dove Lewis billboards and bench ads. We think that’s pretty priceless!

BA360′s Lead Fundraising Auctioneer Johnna Wells in action at last year’s Wet Nose Soiree!

The night also features the DoveAwards, which honor the achievements of animal supporters throughout our community. It always proves to be a moving event full of laughs and a few happy tears—and will certainly have you eager to get home and hug your own furry love. Find out all the event details here. Hope to see you there!

Filed under: BA360: News, Event Preview by Liz Hummer
No Comments »

Last weekend we were lucky to partner with not only one incredible organization, but two incredible organizations! Both Ronald McDonald House Charities of Oregon and Southwest Washington, and the Raphael House of Portland held their annual fundraising auction and events! And with great fan fair to boot!

On Friday, September 23, Ronald McDonald House Charities chose to “Paint the Town Red” at this year’s annual Hearts and Hands auction and event! In perfected fashion, outgoing Events Manager Kate Bowman carried this theme throughout, creating the ultimate guest experience!

From the Save The Date cards that were sent out to longtime RMHC supporters, to the hand-selected Silent Auction and Live Auction packages, this year’s event was top notch through and through!

Save The Date - Ronald McDonald House Charities

Hollywood screenwriter and Board of Trustees member, Mike Rich (well known for sensational movies such as Finding Forrester, The Rookie, and most recently, Secretariat) and fellow long time RMHC supporter and Board of Trustees member Jim Boyer were inducted into the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Oregon and Southwest Washington Hall of Fame for their exceptional and heartfelt long-term support. That recognition for support continued on as Mike Stevens and Pacific Northwest Baking Company along with Karen and Ken Wright of Ken Wright Cellars were presented with the 2011 Partners of Distinction award.

With the creative and skilled assistance of Magaurn Video Media, both guests and honorees were presented with a compelling first hand look at those being recognized for their commitment to Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Thereafter, with a lightening round auction, backed by a Special Appeal with a Moment of Giving to showcase collective support for Ronald McDonald House Charities, we were able to surpass last years fundraising totals by $30,000!

On Saturday, September 24th, we had the good fortune of partnering with longtime client — the Raphael House of Portland for another fantastic year! A multi-faceted domestic violence agency dedicated to ending intimate partner violence for good, Raphael House of Portland held their annual Founder’s Dinner at the University Club in downtown Portland.

Hosted by longtime Raphael House supporter, and KGW News Channel 8 at Sunrise’s Brenda Braxton (who has graciously served as the evening’s host for 13 years), the event was an intimate gathering by invitation only to champion the work of the Raphael House of Portland, which has been providing a foundation of hope for a life free from family violence for more than 30 years.

Johnna Wells and Brenda Braxton at the Raphael House of Portland Founder's Dinner (Photo by Brenda Braxton)

With close to 130 guests in attendance, a brief Live Auction featuring five captivating packages, and a remarkably generous $50,000 matching challenge from the Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund, the first reports estimated that we were able to raise over $240,000 in support of the Raphael House of Portland and in an effort to eliminate the causes of family and intimate partner violence.

An inspiring showcase of support for Raphael House of Portland (Photo by Brenda Braxton)

In total, over the course of one weekend, over $500,000 was raised in support of two remarkably deserving organizations!

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap by Johnna Wells
No Comments »

Third time’s a charm. It goes without saying that we had a blast at the Amy Roloff Charity Foundation‘s 3rd Annual fundraising event this past Saturday, but we’ll still say it—we had a blast! From the gorgeous grounds at The Reserve Vineyards & Golf Club to the red carpet to the birthday cake and the, well, adorable E! News host and emcee for the evening Jason Kennedy, it was definitely a night to remember.

The Reserve Vineyards & Golf Club

It’s wonderful to see Amy Roloff using her celebrity from TLC’s popular show Little People, Big World to spread the love among some wonderful local children’s charities. Over $100,000 was raised this time to benefit the Special Olympics of Oregon and two fellow BA360 clients Bridge Meadows and Providence Child Center.

We’ve had the pleasure of working with ARCF on the event for its past three years, and this year was even more special as the date also celebrated both Amy’s birthday and her daughter Molly’s birthday. Hence the amazing six-tier birthday cake and Amy’s message: “My birthday wish is for these children to have the opportunity to celebrate their birthdays knowing that they are loved and supported.”

Birthday cake!

The sold-out “Starry Nights” celebration under the grounds’ Vintner’s Pavilion was by all means a celebration for those who could attend—and for all those who were able to watch everything streaming live via Ustream (what a fabulous way to engage supporters who weren’t able to make it to the event)! After red carpet photos with Amy upon their arrival, guests were energized to give generously thanks to the connections with strong local charities doing incredible work.

BA360 Principal Fundraising Auctioneer Johnna Wells & Amy Roloff on the red carpet.

The celebrity angle ran through many of the packages, including trips to Mexico and Cortona, Italy that would make anyone feel like a star. Guests also bid on a backstage tour of E! News, and front row tickets to Chelsea Lately thanks to guest and Chelsea’s righthand man, Ryan Basford. But the big highlight was a surprise birthday gift for Amy—a painting by Jocelyn, a young special needs girl from the Providence Child Center, which her mom presented during the Special Appeal. A truly wonderful moment that showcased the spirit the celebration.

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap by Liz Hummer
No Comments »

After a summer filled with biking, hiking, camping, swimming, and simply lounging around the park—in short, enjoying all the amazing natural beauty in our vast backyard—it was especially meaningful to gather last Friday to celebrate and support the Columbia Land Trust in their work to conserve the incredible landscapes throughout the Columbia River region. It’s a cause especially close to our hearts here at Benefit Auctions 360, and we’ve been thrilled to support their fundraising efforts for the past six years.

This year, the team at CLT decided to shake things up a bit, focusing on the celebration aspect most of all for Wine & Land 2011, held at Montgomery Park. After carefully assessed their fundraising and event history with us and Samantha Swaim Fundraising, they decided to try a new approach, eschewing the silent auction, shortening the live auction to a few key packages tied to their mission, and focusing on the special appeal—all before a locally harvested feast and dance party, which were the heart of the evening. Although not the traditional model, the infectious energy and high spirits cultivated among the 230 ardent supporters fueled the fundraising efforts—nearly $150,000 was raised, well over our targeted goal!

CLT’s special appeal was especially successful because they tied the giving to a very personally meaningful theme: “Gifts We Give to Our Children.” The evening had begun with a light-hearted social hour, which of course put everyone in a festive mood, before they all took their seats for a dynamic welcome by Executive Director Glenn Lamb that touched on the four areas of CLT’s focus: repairing natural habitats along rivers and streams; conserving forests as a natural resource; supporting local farms; and, in conjunction with Three Rivers Land Conservancy, growing their Backyard Habitat Program to teach children about the abundance of nature right outside their door.

The strong connections that people have with this environment, and therefore with their support for CLT, made this start to the evening quite powerful. As Glenn said, “Columbia Land Trust is all of us, saving one of the great places on earth. We—you and me—are passing our great Northwest natural and cultural history to our children, to future generations.”

A quick live auction of three travel-related packages, including a Columbia Slough Watershed canoe excursion, got the crowd excited before the special appeal, an incredibly moving message from CLT supporter Lindsay Cornelius that conveyed the importance of preserving our beautiful surroundings for future generations.

Thanks to hard work securing many pre-committed donations, the momentum started strong for giving to secure this legacy. We were moved by the passionate support and thrilled with the generosity of so many guests. And that was just the start of the night!

After the program, guests headed upstairs to trade their own stories, laugh, and share ideas over the delicious, seasonal dinner sourced from local farms (naturally). Along with a few more ways to give and win fantastic prizes (raffles and a Wine Wall, where guests purchase a mystery bottle for $25), the Freak Mountain Ramblers stole the night away with their rollicking bluegrass/country/rock ‘n roll. What a night to dance under the soaring atrium and celebrate how lucky we are to live in the beautiful Northwest! And lucky that the Columbia Land Trust does such amazing work to keep it that way!

Photo from Columbia Land Trust.

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap by Liz Hummer
No Comments »

August 20th marked our annual excursion into the heart of Bend, Oregon as we hit the open road and traveled south for the 22nd annual High Desert Rendezvous presented by Sterling Savings Bank, the High Desert Museum’s signature fundraising gala!

For six seasons, we’ve been honored to have the opportunity to partner with the High Desert Museum for their annual fundraising auction and event – The High Desert Rendezvous, a showcase of glitz and western glory, which culminate to highlight the museum’s standing as a cultural leader in educational exhibits about the history, culture, arts, and wildlife that surround the plateau of the High Desert and areas of the Pacific Northwest.

This event is one that we at Benefit Auctions 360 look forward to each and every year! Backed by a sensational staff, and surrounded by an incredible level of community support, the High Desert Museum produces a top notch, one-of-a-kind auction and event that is as wild and beautiful as the High Desert itself!

Each year, the event space is situated in a bold and beautiful outdoor tent on museum grounds, flanked by lanterns and flickers of candlelight, the sweet smell of hay bales and brightly colored packing blankets lining the entrance, and the billowing smoke of Tri-tip on the grill serving as a compelling and rustic welcome for guests new and old.

As we geared up for this 22nd Annual High Desert Rendezvous, I reflected upon the relationship I had been fortunate enough to establish with the High Desert Museum over the years, developing both a professional working relationship, and establishing many friendships along the way as well.

It’s my personal belief that strong, successful (and of course FUN) auction and events, are often centered around long standing partnerships. When we as a company are invited to partner with an organization year after year, we are able to weave ourselves into the fabric of their mission and support base, getting to know not only the organization’s staff and volunteers over time, but developing lasting relationships with their donor base as well.  This is an area of our services that I hold proudly to at Benefit Auctions 360, for the organization’s that we partner with are those whose mission and core values we truly believe in, and thus stand behind. I’m proud to say that the majority of our clients have been long standing partners for many years, allowing our team at Benefit Auctions 360 to come to know these organizations on both a professional and personal level, which allows for our work to reside that much closer to our hearts.

The BA360 Team: Scott, Judith, Lisa, and Annette

Our time spent with the High Desert Museum over the years has truly been a delight! Getting gussied up in our Western wear, and tipping our hats in support of Oregon’s history, culture and and wildlife is one of our auction season highlights!

Scott and Johnna

And year after year, we’re able to develop stronger ties with a sensational community of supporters, that like us, wants to ensure that the High Desert Museum can continue to shine as one of Central Oregon’s most valued treasures!

The BA360 Team: Keely, Joshua, Annette, and Bob

With strategic plans in tact, a stellar Silent Auction and dynamite Live Auction showcasing a selection of packages befitting of any arts, cultural, and Western flaired fan, we charged forth into this 22nd Annual High Desert Rendezvous with confidence and a whole lot of “giddy up” in our step!

An incredible oil painting featured in the Silent Auction

The museum grounds served as the perfect mission driven locale for which to host the Silent Auction and Reception.

The High Desert Rendezvous Silent Auction and Reception

And year after year, many of Bend’s finest businesses and supporters contribute their hotest wares for the highly anticipated annual bidding war that is sure to ensue.

One of seven hand embroidered towels featured in the Silent Auction

We like to dream “BIG” here at Benefit Auctions 360. We keep our feet firmly planted on the ground, and “shoot for the moon” as we set forth with our fundraising plans for each organization, which is why the results of this year’s High Desert Rendezvous were so very sweet…

With a whirlwind of support in the Silent Auction, the Live Auction was quick to follow with thirteen signature packages, hand picked for the guests of the High Desert Rendezvous, each bringing their weight in gold at the call of “SOLD!”.  With a Special Appeal budgeted goal of $87,000, the crowd grew wild with enthusiasm as we surpassed this mark, generating over $100,000 in the Special Appeal alone, thanks in part to the remarkably generous donor support, and the strategic plan we were able to institute in advance to ensure that the Special Appeal could be strong, sustainable, and financially successful! In total, we were able to raise $50,000 more than had been budgeted, and so with that, we threw our hats high and danced to the light of the moon.

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap, BA360: Client Profile, Uncategorized by Johnna Wells
No Comments »

We are excited to announce that Benefit Auctions 360, LLC team member, Keely Montgomery has “gone the extra mile” to offer the highest level of professionalism and the most up-to-date information by earning the Benefit Auctioneer Specialist (BAS) designation.  Keely was awarded this honor in July 2011 after completing the BAS course offered through the National Auctioneers Association Education Institute.  The BAS course covers topics such as the fundraising components of the auction event, item acquisition, audience development, contractual agreements, and public relations.  Less than 1% of Auctioneers and benefit auction professionals throughout North America hold the BAS designation.

Filed under: BA360: News by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

This Silent Auction section set up by Columbia Riverkeeper is a great example of how to space out your tables and items!

One inclusion for most fundraising events is that of the Silent Auction. In this blog post, we hope to assist you in properly setting up your Silent Auction and in helping your organization to understand what it takes for your Silent Auction to reach it’s full potential for success!

Silent Auction Spacing & Set-Up: It is generally good to plan one-foot of table space per Silent Auction item. (Ex// If you have 120 silent auction items, you would need twenty (20) six-foot tables to display your items upon). Additionally, to calculate the overall square footage needed for your Silent Auction, consider that you want roughly 10 square feet per item. (Ex// Again, if you have 120 items, you would need to have at least 1200 square feet). These calculations will ensure that you end up with adequate space for your guests to move around and view all of the items.

Determining the Amount of Items: First, take your guest count and divide it by two. This number will provide you with an idea of how many Active Bidding Units (people who will be actively bidding during your fundraising event) that you might have at your auction.

Think of yourself as a guest when it comes to set-up. What type of layout is going to be easiest to navigate within the space? If you plan to section off your Silent Auction, you can use the easy method of colored balloons to differentiate the sections (ie. the Blue Section, Red Section, etc.) – flying the balloons above eye height so the sections are easy to locate. A display that is most effective is a vertical 11×17 or 8 ½x11 stand for each item, including a photo (even if the item is already on the table for those who want to do a quick glance over), a short description of the item, and the value of the package/item.

If you are planning to section off your Silent Auction, below is a chart of how to space the items out into the different sections depending on the quantity and value. Benefit Auctions 360, LLC will assist our clients with Silent Auction package suggestions and placement should this be an area where you would like additional support.

For easy math, below is an example of how this might look if you had 100 items with a cumulative value of $6,000:

Bid Increments and Setting Your Starting Bid: As for bid increments, it is suggested to have the starting bid be 30% of the item/package value, then increase bid increments from there. It is helpful to predetermine all of the bid increments and write them into the form to make it easiest for guests to participate. The increment amount depends on the value of the item/package itself, but it is typically 10%.

So, if an item is valued at $100, you would start the bidding at $30 and increase by 10% each line thereafter, looking like this:

$30
$40
$50
$60
$70
$80
$90

(and so on)

You can also offer a “Purchase Now”, or a “Guaranteed Purchase” option for guests, an option which is featured at the bottom of the Silent Auction bid sheet.  This “Purchase Now” or “Guaranteed Purchase” option consists of a purchase price that is 200-250% of the item/package value, allowing for guests to bypass the Silent Auction bidding process, ensuring that they won’t be outbid by any other guests, allowing them to purchase their favored item/package instantly! This is a popular inclusion featured at many Silent Auctions.

Benefit Auctions 360, LLC hopes that these tips help you in having a successful Silent Auction!

Filed under: BA360: Auction Tips by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

It’s nothing new to the event world, but “Step and Repeats” and/or Photo Booths are becoming increasingly popular inclusions at benefit auctions to present that added paparazzi flare! It is a great addition that allows your guests to get into the excitement of the evening and have something special to take home with them as a memento at the end of the night! More importantly for your organization, the inclusion of a Step and Repeat/Photo Booth is an Additional Revenue Generator to increase dollars raised at your event! It is a fundraiser you are putting together after all!

Most often, Step and Repeats/Photo Booths are placed as a destination point for guests as they enter the event, or just following the Registration and Check-In stations. This placement allows for your Registration staff to explain to your guests that they can have their photo taken right then and there, and then have the opportunity to pick the photo up at Check-Out at the end of the night!

Erin Doherty Ward, Keely Montgomery and Holly Gits are enjoying a night of fun at the 2010 Power of the Purse Auction!

The photo above was taken at the Girls Inc., 2010 Power of the Purse Auction. As you can see, a Step and Repeat/Photo Booth can be a fantastic way to include additional Sponsor incentives and opportunities, allowing for your lead sponsor(s) to have yet another avenue of exposure by placing their logo(s) on the backdrop.

Erin Doherty Ward and Keely Montgomery had their photos taken at the 2011 Public Interest Law Project Auction at Lewis & Clark College

If your auction and event has a certain theme attached to it, the Step and Repeat/Photo Booth is another way to incorporate that theme! At the recent Public Interest Law Project auction, Paparazzi Tonight (one of several photo booth service providers throughout Portland) provided thematic props and fantastic photos for guests to go along with the event’s Speakeasy/Roaring 20′s theme!

Johnna Wells and Portland Trail Blazer, Nicolas Batum at Foundation Batum's Mama of Africa Auction and Event

And finally, if your auction and event has any level of celebrity involvement, this is yet another reason why guests will want to have their picture taken at the Step and Repeat/Photo Booth! At the Foundation Batum Mama of Africa Auction and Event, which took place this past March, Portland Trail Blazer, Nicolas Batum happily posed with guests for a photo as they completed their auction and event registration and entered the event. Who wouldn’t want to have their photo taken with the charming Mr. Nicolas Batum?

If you’re interested in including this element to your upcoming auction and event, below is a short list of links to some local businesses offering the service:

Paparazzi Tonight

The Original Photobooth

If your organization already has a partnership established with a local photographer and printing company, see if you can pull together a Step and Repeat of your own to enhance your next event, and provide your premium level sponsors with an additional platform to showcase their support and involvement for your auction and event!

Filed under: BA360: Auction Tips, BA360: Vendors by Keely Edmonson
2 Comments »

Benefit Auctions 360, LLC is proud to partner with the Portland Children’s Museum this Saturday, April 9th for their annual “Be A Kid Again” auction and event!  As a new mother, our partnership with the Portland Children’s Museum this year has truly been an exciting one! Both Scott and I look forward to sharing this community treasure with our daughter Wrenne Larue!

The Portland Children’s Museum is an interactive museum that emphasizes the importance of imagination and learning! Having hosted over 1.6 million visitors world-wide, PCM provides every child with the opportunity to view the world around them in a new light. As interaction with the museum’s exhibits is strongly encouraged, PCM makes for an exciting and creatively captivating foundation of endless possibilities for each and every child that walks through their doors!

We’re thrilled to have Benefit Auctions 360, LLC auctioneer, and grandfather to Wrenne Larue, Randy Wells, join us for this exciting evening of food and fun, as we raise crucial funds to ensure that imagination, creativity and wonder can continue to be a driving force for every child at the Portland Children’s Museum!

Filed under: BA360: Client Profile by Johnna Wells
No Comments »

Mark your calendar for HOMEWATERS EVOLVE, the Native Fish Society’s 15th Annual Banquet + Auction to be held on Saturday, April 9th at Montgomery Park in Northwest Portland. This fantastic evening is in celebration of the native fish that shape our Northwest identity and inspire our tireless conservation.

Tickets are $100 each, and include excellent Widmer beer and Lange wine as well as a fantastic dinner catered by Food in Bloom. To register visit their website, www.nativefishsociety.org, or call 503.496.0807.

To view a list of the exciting Live & Super Silent Auction lineup, click HERE.

Filed under: BA360: Client Profile by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

As a Professional Fundraising Auctioneer, I am awarded the opportunity to witness and take part in countless captivating and emotionally engaging events.  Each and every nonprofit organization that we have the privilege of partnering with has a raison d‘être – a reason for existing within the community.  And with each and every auction and event that transpires, it’s our hope that as the evening comes to its inevitable close, that guests have opened their hearts to the organization’s mission at hand, and take a little piece of that nonprofit’s raison d‘être home with them.

On rare occasions, guests might even leave the event with a new perspective on their raison d‘être, and such was the case at the American Cancer Society’s Hope Ball.

The evening was filled with a love for the mission at hand – giving Portlanders the opportunity to participate in the fight against cancer while enjoying a spectacular evening of great food, drink, and a hearty lightening round Live Auction!

Like most Auction and Events, the evening also included a Special Appeal - a moment of giving which takes place during a slated portion of the time line, wherein guests can join together collectively to support the mission at hand by making a direct contribution at a level of giving that proves to be meaningful to them. When incorporated, a Special Appeal opens guests hearts and minds, creating a potential for support that is unending.

For me personally, this element always proves to be the most compelling portion of the event, for it gives the organization a chance to convey their core focus, philosophy, and funding needs to all of the guests in attendance. A Special Appeal is a remarkable opportunity to highlight the core focus of an organizations efforts, conveying their specific needs for funding, all the while  acknowledging the profoundly positive impacts that direct support and funding could provide their organization.   During this particular Auction and Event, the focus for our Special Appeal centered around The American Cancer Society’s Camp U-Kan-Du and the Cancer Survivor College Scholarship Program. During the overview of these two programs, an incredibly inspiring fourteen-year- old girl named Sara Turley bravely made her way to the stage, stood with poetic independence, and gracefully shared with the audience a humbling tale about her raison d‘être. Diagnosed with terminal cancer seven years ago, Sara conveyed her recognition that the dawn of each new day is truly a gift, and thus the present.

{photo by johnna wells}

As she accounted for the many things that she was unable to do as a result of her cancer and ongoing treatments, she made sure that she accounted for the things that she could do – two fold.  Her words, her tone, and her presence, made certain that the audience recognized that she was choosing to live - to live each minute, each hour, and with every passing day that she was given.  As I watched this beautiful young girl eloquently open up to our audience and share her story with captivated listeners, I was so very humbled by her spirit. Her tenacity and zeal for every morsel of life was an inspiration to every person in the room that night, and her passion for life in it’s present form, in all of its heartache and raw beauty, has forever changed my raison d‘être.

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap, BA360: Client Profile by Johnna Wells
No Comments »

Tables have been sold out for this year’s Hope Ball, but it is not too late to be able to purchase Individual Tickets for the entire evening or for the After Party!

Hope Ball is the American Cancer Society’s annual fundraiser, and gives Portlander’s the opportunity to participate in the fight against cancer while enjoying a spectacular evening of entertainment, and great food and drinks throughout the course of this auction and event! All proceeds raised through the Portland Hope Ball support the American Cancer Society’s mission of funding cancer research, education, and support programs. This research has led to life-saving information and the development of state-of-the-art technology to improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their families.

This year’s Hope Ball theme, “Arabian Nights” will allow guests to experience an evening dedicated to imagination and wonder THIS SATURDAY February 26, 2011, at Pure Space – 1315 NW Overton, Portland, OR 97209.

Watch as the talented artists of Pendulum Aerial Arts thrill the audience with stunning aerial and stage performances. What’s that jingle? It’s the sashaying belts of elegant belly dancers, moving effortlessly through the crowd. Hear that? It’s the call of the Arabian marketplace, as merchants hawk their colorful wares. Sip on the finest libations at the cocktail reception, buy a fabulous package during the Live Auction, with some of the highlights including:

• Weekend Getaway to Napa Valley
• One Week at Black Butte Ranch with a Round of Golf and Spa Treatment
• A Trip to Provence – the heart of France’s Champagne Region
• A Weekend Excursion to Washington Wine Country Via Private Jet
• A Week’s Stay in a Puerta Vallarta Penthouse
• Tour the Today Show with Ann Curry

During the Hope Ball Live Auction, guests have the opportunity to make a direct, tax-deductible contribution to the American Cancer Society’s Camp Ukandu as well as the Cancer Survivor College Scholarship Program during the Special Appeal Paddle Raise.

Following the Dinner and Auction, Pure Space will open up to more guests to dance the night away with Bhangra Lessons taught by Bollywood and Bhangra Dance Instructor Prashant Kakad at the Hope Ball After Party.  These After Party tickets are included with the purchase of a $250 Hope Ball Ticket, however additional tickets for those not attending the main Hope Ball event can be purchased for just $25 in advance, and include drinks and entertainment from 10:00PM until midnight! Tickets at the door are $35.

What you need to know:

Dress: Please arrive dressed in cocktail or semi-formal attire.

Parking: We have parking available in a lot located on the corner of NW 12th and Pettygrove.

What to Bring: Your dancing shoes, your credit card, and heartfelt support for the American Cancer Society!

Filed under: BA360: Client Profile by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

It was an incredibly exciting evening at Midnight at the Oasis - the 2011 auction and event for Our House that took place over the weekend!

From start to finish, this magical, Moroccan themed event was an unprecedented evening filled with entertainment, indulgence, and most importantly, inspiration!  Upon arriving at the Portland Art Museum, guests were welcomed by Portland’s notorious, Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, who were there to remind guests that the evenings festivities were thoroughly Portland and thoroughly indulgent indeed!

{photo by keely montgomery}

Therapy llamas, Rojo and Smokey, set the perfect tone as guests entered the foyer at the Portland Art Museum. Both llamas adorned in their own Moroccan attire, provided a fun and lovingly interactive back drop for guest photos ! (The photos taken that evening will be shared with guests post-event).

{photo by keely montgomery}

A fantastic array of Silent Auction packages filled the Sunken Ballroom at the Portland Art Museum, and additional revenue generating opportunities such as a “Platinum Ticket” Raffle (a raffle opportunity wherein the winner can choose a Live Auction item/package as their prize), provided guests with endless opportunities to showcase their support for Our House - a beloved Portland nonprofit organization that inspires people with HIV/AIDS to live well by providing integrated health and housing services with compassion, collaboration, and respect.

After the Silent Auction came to a close, guests were invited up to the Kridell Grand Ballroom of the Portland Art Museum where they were enticed with the evening’s lively entertainment!

Our House has taken the traditional model of a Live Auction and Event, and has cleverly and creatively morphed that model into an Auction and Event experience like no other! Our House has shown that by weaving uniquely fabulous pieces of entertainment into the forefront of the event, that they can generate an engaging level of excitement and momentum which later serves as a fundraising catalyst as the evening progresses towards the Live Auction! One example of this was showcased in the Welcome Video that Auction and Event Co-Chairs Gary Maffei and Marc Lintner created in partnership with Magaurn Video Media.

Rather than giving basic general welcomes and sponsorship recognitions at the start of the program, Our House has created an experience for the guests that is much more visually enticing – using video footage filmed on a green screen and incorporating thematic background images, allowing the guests to travel in this instance to various parts of Northern Africa!

Below you can see “Midnight at the Oasis” Auction and Event Co- Chairs, Gary Maffei and Marc Lintner thanking their wine sponsor for the evening, while sipping it from the sweeping landscape of the Sahara Desert!  Sponsors are thrilled to be involved with an event that utilizes this kind of recognition!

Auctino and Event Co- Chairs Gary Maffei & Marc Lintner

The fantastically talented team at Magaurn Video Media can offer their expertise to put something as unique as the Our House welcome video together for your auction and event as well!

Following their special welcome video, Our House kicked off their program for the evening with a beautiful performance by Polaris Dance Company, which was concluded with fire dancers positioned on each corner of the room to heat things up a bit, adding yet more fuel and excitement to the Live Auction that was still to come!

Polaris Dance Company {photo by keely montgomery}

{photo by keely montgomery}

At the culmination of the fire performance, two striking beauties entered the ballroom carrying a treasure chest onto the stage, which was subsequently lit on fire! Out of this Moroccan treasure chest emerged the evening’s Master of Ceremonies, local actor/singer extrordonaire, Dale Johannes. Talk about an entrance!

After Dale’s emergence from the fiery treasure chest, our Principal Fundraising Auctioneer, Johnna Wells, was carried out to the stage by the same beautiful entourage that introduced the evening’s Master of Ceremonies.

{photo by keely montgomery}

It’s not often that our Auctioneers make this sort of entrance to the stage, but such creative and wildly exciting elements of entertainment and thematic inclusions certainly set a decadent tone leading into the Live Auction – a stellar format that in many instances leads to fundraising success!

{photo by keely montgomery}

Once the Live Auction began, there was no stopping the energy in the room and the unwavering support for Our House. Portland’s most remarkably generous and spirited donors gathering together for one exotically entertaining evening, raising over $400,000 – an Our House fundraising record – in support of people living with HIV/AIDS. In support of Our House! And we here at Benefit Auctions 360 are truly honored to have had the opportunity to join them in that unwavering support!

Benefit Auctions 360 Team for the Our House Auction and Event!

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap, BA360: Auction Tips by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

On Friday, February 18th, Albertina Kerr supporters gathered under the big top in support of our communities most vulnerable. The annual “Spotlight on Kerr” auction and event took on a bold new thematic twist this year, transforming Portland’s Pure Space (an urban venue in the Pearl District) into a Winter Carnival!

This was an evening filled with fun and festive activities, each allowing guests the opportunity to join Albertina Kerr Centers “Army of Angels”, thus supporting their core mission -to be a leading provider of services to children, adults, and families with emotional or mental health challenges and developmental disabilities.

Our Winter Carnival was packed full with supportive guests perusing through Carnival Alley, which was brimming with Silent Auction packages, Fortune Tellers, Golden Tickets (a raffle opportunity wherein guests purchase a raffle ticket for the chance to win any item/package featured in the Live Auction!), and a Wine Toss!

The Pearl District’s new event center Pure Space, served as the perfect backdrop for this fundraising fete! A blank canvas of sorts, Pure Space provided a spacious template for Albertina Kerr Centers to bring their creative and thematic ideas to light!

3 Leg Torso performed as guests made their way into the dining room to be seated for dinner, unleashing their eclectic synthesis of modern chamber music, creating the perfect setting for Albertina Kerr supporters to unleash their giving power!

As this soiree continued, new and long standing Albertina Kerr supporters joined forces, raising an approximated $90,000 in the Special Appeal alone – proving that the Special Appeal (a moment of giving during the course of a fundraising event where guests can give cash contributions to showcase direct support for the mission at hand) is an integral source of fundraising revenue!

Although the final auction and event totals are not yet in, the evening was a sweeping success! As we have said before here at Benefit Auctions 360, we are so fortunate to have the opportunity to partner with such incredible organizations within our community, and Albertina Kerr Centers and their “Army of Angels” that stood in support of their work is such a shining example of the many stars within Portland’s nonprofit community!

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap, BA360: Auction Tips, BA360: Client Profile by Johnna Wells
No Comments »

On Saturday, February 19th, 2011, the Portland Art Museum will come alive with magic and wonder, as Benefit Auctions 360 gathers in support of Our House of Portland during their 2011 auction and event - Midnight at the Oasis!

Our House has been part of the Portland community since 1988 – providing healthcare, housing, and other vital services to low-income people living with HIV/AIDS. Day in and day out, Our House of Portland is guided by compassion, inspiring people with HIV/AIDS to live well.

Event Chairs Gary Maffei and Marc Lintner are back again for another fantastic year, showcasing not only their phenomenal and heartfelt support for Our House, but also their creative eye and comic flair!  For one spectacular night, the Portland Art Museum will be transformed into an Arabian Oasis, complete with libations, live music, and of course a Live Auction, featuring Benefit Auctions 360′s auctioneer Johnna Wells.

This year’s auction is made complete with seventeen supremely sensational Live Auction packages! Here’s a snap shot of a few of the packages that are up for auction:

• A Five-Star Cruise through the Tahitian Islands!
• An 8 day stay at Village Paradiso on Bali’s tranquil eastern coast! An idyllic Eat Pray Love- esque retreat for up to 8 people!
• A French Provincial Escape to the Chateauneuf du Pape! Located in Provence, France, this one week getaway will be an epic vacation for four people!
• A six night South African Safari for two very lucky bidders! Complete with deluxe accommodations, three delicious African meals prepared daily, and viewing expeditions in an open-air rover through the Zulu Nyala reserve!

This list is just a snap-shot of the incredible packages that are up for grabs during Our House of Portland’s 2011 Benefit Auction! Visit Our House of Portland’s website for a complete list of Live Auction Packages – http://www.ourhouseofportland.org

If you’re interested in attending Midnight At The Oasis, or would like to place an absentee bid on any of their phenomenal Live Auction packages, contact James Lindquist, Development Manager at Our House, who is available at 503.595.6121 or by email at jlindquist@ourhouseofportland.org.

Cheers!

Filed under: BA360: Client Profile by Johnna Wells
No Comments »

In this video, Benefit Auctions 360′s principal fundraising auctioneer Johnna Wells, conducts the 2010 Our House of Portland auction, the 2010 Dove Lewis’ Boutique’s Unleashed auction, and the Amy Roloff Charity Foundation auction which was featured on an episode of TLC’s Little People, Big World. Thanks to Magaurn Video Media for providing live video coverage at both the Our House of Portland auction and Dove Lewis’ Boutique’s Unleashed!

Filed under: BA360: Auctioneer Profile by Johnna Wells
No Comments »

We’re so fortunate to have the opportunity to partner with incredible organizations throughout the country!  And through these partnerships, we have the opportunity to bring to auction some truly incredible packages! On February 5, 2011 we will be partnering with Orphans Overseas for their annual fundraising auction and event!

Orphans Overseas provides integrated programs for Kenya’s pregnant women, abandoned babies and the orphaned children left behind in the aftermath of the AIDS epidemic.  Additionally, they work state side  to empower and educate single mothers to break free from poverty and the need for welfare assistance, all the while developing sustainable parenting plans for healthy mother and child relationships.

On Friday, February 5th, 2011, bidders will have the opportunity to not only support the work of this life changing organization, but they will also have the opportunity to purchase RED CARPET WORTHY PACKAGES AT AUCTION! Some of these packages include:

• A Walk-On Role on the hit TV show Raising Hope!
• A chance to Walk the Red Carpet with the stars for the premier of The Fast and The Furious Five – to be held in either Rio de Janeiro or Los Angels! This package includes Round Trip air fare for two, hotel accommodations, and two tickets for the world premier of The Fast and The Furious Five, as well as tickets to their exclusive VIP after party!
• Tickets to the invitation only Badgley Mischka Runway Show at Bryant Park during the September Spring 2012 Fashion Week – not to mention a show room visit and a meet and greet with the designers themselves!
• Behind the scenes with an Emmy Award Winning  Hollywood Soundtrack Composer!

The list of these exclusive Live Auction packages goes on and on, and the count down to this auction and event has begun! Contact Laura Hildenbrand at 503-297-2006, extension 7010 to purchase a ticket for this auction and event, or to place your absentee bids!

Filed under: BA360: News by Johnna Wells
No Comments »

For those of you who are unfamiliar with Crave Portland, it is a fantastic organization here in Portland with the mission to “innovatively connect urban gals to the sassiest, gutsiest, most inspiring people they need to know in Portland.” Their modern marketplace of soirees, gatherings and online networking serves as an ambassador to everything there is to CRAVE about the Rose City.

In September, our Principal Fundraising Auctioneer, Johnna Wells, was interviewed by the lovely ladies over there, and at the time, we were so busy with auctions that we didn’t have the opportunity to share it with you here on the blog!  So, if you have not had the chance to read the interview, please CLICK HERE for the link!

Filed under: BA360: Auctioneer Profile by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

BA360′s Principal Fundraising Auctioneer, Johnna Wells will be in the upcoming episode of Little People Big World! This is the second year that Benefit Auctions 360, LLC has been able to partner with the Amy Roloff Charity Foundation on their annual auction and event! Be sure to tune in! (Details are below).

Watch little people BIG WORLDon Monday, November 14th at 8:00pm/7:00pm Central! 2010 Amy Roloff Charity Foundation Golf & Dinner Event The star-studded event included Masters of Ceremonies Ms. Amy Roloff and Jason Kennedy of E! Entertainment. Additional emcees included DJ’s Terry, Stacy Linn and Nelson from Entercom Radio, “The Buzz”, with a special tribute to Frank Sinatra™ from John “The Voice” English. Additional celebrities participants included KATU News Anchor Steve Dunn; Trailblazers Alumni-Dale Schlueter and Steve Johnson; the Portland Timbers and many more. Visit www.AmyRoloffCF.org and contact us to be a part of next year’s event! August 21st & 22nd, 2011 at The Reserve Vineyards and Golf Club; Portland, OR

Filed under: BA360: News by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

(photo from allposters.com)

We are pleased to announce the highly anticipated arrival of Johnna Wells’ and Scott Conger’s baby girl! She was born on the afternoon of Friday, October 22nd. Baby and mother are both doing well! Johnna would like to extend her sincere gratitude for all of the well wishes from our wonderful clients at Benefit Auctions 360, LLC.

Filed under: BA360: News by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

A Successful Registration Set-Up at the Columbia Land Trust Auction

Although Registration and Check-Out are the very first and last impressions your guests will have of your auction and event, surprisingly these areas are often overlooked in the planning process. In this post, we would like to dedicate some time to sharing with you some tried and true ways that have proven to be most effective for a speedy Registration and Check-Out process.

Timing: Remember when planning your timeline, open doors at an early enough hour to allow for both the admittance of attendees and still give them enough time to get into the Reception and walk through the Silent Auction section.

Location, Location, Location: Where you set up your Registration/Check-Out area(s) is just as crucial as how you set them. Keep in mind the number of attendees who will be arriving to and leaving your event in one small timeframe. The most convenient and effective Registration/Check-Out area is going to be somewhere near the entrance of the event venue where lines can easily flow and guests will be comfortable (ex// if guests will be standing outside waiting to get to the registration area, be sure they are protected from the elements and under tenting. If it is cold out, consider incorporating standing heaters along the way).  Keeping the Registration/Check-Out area highly visible as the very first and last obvious stopping point. This will ensure that you do not end up with a large group who skipped Registration/Check-Out altogether (Guests with no bidder numbers = less funds raised). If the venue is set up as such that it does not allow for Registration/Check-Out to be in a highly visible area, make sure to have both signage and volunteers directing traffic as guests arrive to and leave your event.

Set-Up: Although it seems like a good idea to have Registration/Check-Out stations alphabetized, the truth of the matter is that guests do not arrive and leave your event in alphabetical order. When this set-up style is implemented, it is not uncommon to find certain sections of the alphabet with long lines and others with few to no people, causing some irritation from the guests in line. This doesn’t mean alphabetizing is not a good idea. In fact, it is a GREAT idea! It just works better to be alphabetized on the back end instead of the front end.

A format that tends to work best is to set up two 6ft – 8ft tables lined together where you can station four (4) Registration/Check-Out volunteers (two at each table). At each station, a laptop, printer, and credit card terminal should be available. Every laptop should have access to all data so that each Registration/Check-Out volunteer can work with any name or bidder number.  Behind the data stations would be another set of the same sized tables, where alphabetized boxes of Registration Packets are located for easy access by any of the Registration/Check-Out volunteers. The packets might include the catalog, schedule for the evening, entrée card (if applicable), table number and bid number.

By forming a single line for Registration, guests can go from the front of the line to any one of the stations available. Your Registration/Check-Out volunteers can either be standing so they themselves can walk to the tables behind them and pick up the Registration Packets, or if you plan to have them seated, you can assign an additional volunteer to each station to pull the packet for each guest as they check-in.

Additionally, it has proven to be helpful for some groups to have a “Special Services” Registration/Check-Out Station set up for situations that might slow down a line. A few examples of where this might happen are, 1) someone is attending in place of another person and needs to be registered in the system, 2) a guest has brought additional attendees and would like to purchase tickets, or 3) the main Registration Station simply cannot locate the person’s Registration Packet. This additional station will keep the line moving at Registration, while the “Special Services” volunteer will be able to assist these guests who will require more time. The person running “Special Services” will know where the empty seats are located and at which tables he/she can place additional guests as well as be trained on how to troubleshoot other potential scenarios ahead of the event.

If you have the ability at your auction and event to have guests pre-register online with their credit card, which can make for a more smooth process, you can also utilize the following sticker system for the registration packets, which will help to further speed up the process and make sure that nothing is missed:

-       green sticker – this person can go ahead into the event

-       red sticker – still need essential information or payment info for this person

-       yellow sticker – this person may have some missing information such as email, etc.

Auction Software can be extremely beneficial for groups to use for all auction components, with Registration/Check-Out at the top of the list. Because there are so many software programs and companies available for Auction Registration/Check-Out, we will focus another post primarily on that one particular topic. In the meantime, we hope this post helps you in setting up a successful Registration/Check-Out area at your next auction!

Filed under: BA360: Auction Tips by Keely Edmonson
2 Comments »

This year’s annual International Auctioneers Association Conference and Show was held in Greensboro, North Carolina during the month of July. It is a time when the industry comes together to connect, share ideas, success stories and further their education by choosing from over fifty educational sessions. This was a special year for BA360’s Affiliate Auctioneer, Randy Wells. After serving as one of the Board of Directors for the National Auctioneers Association since 2003, and Chairman of the Board since 2009, Randy decided it was time to pass the torch. During the Opening Session at the Conference and Show, Randy Wells was honored by NAA President, Scott Musser, for his many years of service in contributing to the success of the organization.

{Chairman of the Board, Randy Wells, was awarded by NAA President, Scott Musser, for his many years of service.}

In other news, our BA360 Auction Coordinator, Keely Edmonson Montgomery, attended the Benefit Auctioneer Specialist (BAS) course before the start of the NAA Conference and Show. The class, taught by Kip Toner of Kip Toner Benefit Auctions in Seattle, was inspiring, informative, and fun. It was an added opportunity before the start of the conference to get to know Benefit Auctioneers and Bid Spotters from around the world and talk to one another about trends in the benefit auctions industry.

{Student/Teacher dinner of the BAS July 2010 class}

In addition to the many continuing education classes offered during the Conference and Show, there were also plenty of opportunities to mix and mingle with the many talented individuals in the industry.

{Left to Right: Erin Doherty Ward of Benefit Auctions 360 & Star Auctions, Paul C. Behr of World Wide College of Auctioneering, Cathy Kingston of Kingston Auction Company , and Keely Edmonson Montgomery of Benefit Auctions 360.}

Filed under: BA360: News by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

Benefit auctions typically run in seasons closely following the Public Schools Calendar – in our case, the Portland Public Schools Calendar. We have our Fall Auction Season which begins after Labor Day weekend and continues on until the Thanksgiving break, followed by the Winter Auction Season starting in late January moving through the beginning of Spring Break, and finally the Spring Auction Season following Spring Break and wrapping up in early June.

The reason for the trend of Auction Seasons is due in part to a large population of the donor base having children in school who tend to travel during the summer and school holidays.

However, this trend does not apply to all organizations. There are many groups, take for example the Bicycle Transportation Alliance, where it actually works in their favor to hold their auction in the summer months — a time when the weather lends itself to bike riding.

So, when planning your Benefit Auction, think about The Three W’s of your organization to help decide what date works best for you:

1) WHO are your donors and supporters?

2) WHAT is most appealing to your target audience?

3) WHY do guests support your cause?

Answering these three questions can help you in selecting a date that works best for your group. Happy auction planning, and remember that Benefit Auctions 360 is here to help!

Filed under: BA360: Auction Tips by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

{It was a treat to watch performers from Cirque Du Soleil before the Live Auction}

Following a reception featuring artwork in the Silent Auction and previewing Live Auction pieces, well over 300 Cascade AIDS Project supporters trickled into a larger section of Post 419 in the Bison Building for a dinner and Live Auction. The evenings production, put together by a fabulous Event Committee and managed on the evening of the event by West Coast Event Productions, was run like a well oiled machine, moving gracefully from one part to the next. On the stage first were three performers from Cirque Du Soleil.

Following the first of several performances by the Cirque dancers, Benefit Auctions 360′s Johnna Wells took the stage with Oregon Art Beat’s KC Cowan announcing each Live Auction piece.

{While the Live Auction was taking place, the Silent Auction remained open to other CAP supporters who did not attend the dinner}

It was a pleasure to work with Cascade AIDS Project on this years event, and we are happy to report that they exceeded their fundraising goals! To read more about Cascade AIDS Project and this year’s event, click HERE to read an article by Art Critic D.K. Row in The Oregonian.

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

{Auctioneer - Erin Doherty Ward and Emcee - Christine Alexander}

It is one of the peak times of the year now for Benefit Auctions 360 and we have been keeping very busy! During the first weekend of May, our Associate Auctioneer, Erin Doherty Ward was out from NYC to work the Oregon Foundation for Reproductive Health & NARAL Pro-Choice Oregon Annual Liberty Auction. With a background in Women’s Studies, the event was a perfect fit for our fast-talking East Coaster.

{Benefit Auctions 360's Bid Spotters are working the floor}

It was another successful evening and we would like to thank our clients for bringing us on board for this years event! We look forward to having Mrs. Erin Doherty Ward out for another auction again soon.

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

The room was alive with supporters on Friday night at the Power of the Purse auction and event for Girls, Inc.

One of the trends we have seen take place at auctions this year, perhaps in response to last year’s softer economy, is the inclusion of performances before the Live Auction begins to get the audience jazzed — and it is working! Following the close of the Silent Auction at Power of the Purse, guests were asked to take their seats, the DJ began to play Black Eyed Peas, “Tonights Gonna Be a Good Night” and ariel performers put on an awe inspiring show.

I can always pick out an event produced by Cindy Thompson Event Productions – they have more of an edge to them and are not just events, but rather full-scale productions. Kudos to Cindy Thompson and congratulations to Girls, Inc. for a successful event!

Benefit Auctions 360 immediately took the stage following the performance, moving forward with the same energy that kicked off the evening. Working with us that night was Johnna Wells as the Auctioneer, and four of our talented bid spotters: Ryan Bjornstad, Lisa Heston, Judith Rizzio, and Erin Doherty Ward.

{Johnna Wells, Judith Rizzio, Ryan Bjornstad, and Erin Doherty Ward}

The new Executive Director, Elizabeth Nye, shared some stories of success with the audience about the girls of Girls, Inc.

{Strong, Smart & Bold Executive Director, Elizabeth Nye, is just the right person to lead to the girls of Girls, Inc.}

To culminate the evening’s events, music legend Dionne Warwick put on quite a show.

{Music legend, Dionne Warwick performing "What the World Needs Now is Love"

Dionne Warwick made it possible to raise even more money following the Live Auction by having Johnna auction off a second song:

{Dionne Warwick, Erin Doherty Ward, and Johnna Wells}

There were also other highlights of the evening that added just the right amount of sponteneity to further encourage guests to bid higher. Who knew that specific ingredient would have been headstands?

{Mike Chase from 99.5 the Wolf and Kenneth "Cat Daddy" Pogson of Voodoo Doughnuts have a headstand-off}

To read more about Girls, Inc. and the Power of the Purse event this year, you can click HERE to link up with an article from The Oregonian.

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

About ten years ago, when I first moved to Portland, I helped put together a community event for the opening of the Eastbank Esplanade.  One of the organizations participating that year was Chess for Success. Watching the many children play chess on the day of the event and witnessing the level of concentration that goes into the game regardless of all of the activity going on around them, I began to truly understand their mission: to help children develop skills necessary in school and life by learning chess.

{Willamette Week's Richard Meeker and Johnna Wells introduce the Auction Packages together}

The Chess for Success auction, A Knight to Remember, took place last night at The Nines. It was an exciting night for our BA360 Team because Erin Doherty Ward, one of our affiliate Auctioneers flew in from New York City to be with us this weekend.

{Working the event from the BA360 team were (from left to right): Erin Doherty Ward, Johnna Wells, and her brother Joshua Wells}

The guest speaker of the night, a Chess for Success success story, really brought the house down with his speech. This young man has a certain career in Public Relations and/or Speech Writing if he so chooses.

Did you know that Chess for Success is one of the most effective youth organizations in Portland at accomplishing their mission? At the amount of only $75 per child (and that’s the cost to the organization – it is free for the child), students can become involved in a life-changing opportunity!

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

Shortly after winning the prestigious title of 2005 International Auctioneer Champion, Johnna Wells founded Benefit Auctions 360. At the time, the venture was a one-woman operation, but Wells went into it with a grander scheme in mind for the future.

“The name Benefit Auctions 360 actually came out of my vision to work with organizations throughout their entire sphere of auction and event planning. To offer a full range of fundraising services geared towards benefit auctions of all shapes and sizes – 360 degrees of consultation and assistance if you will. This process ensures that we are able to provide organizations with the most effective and cutting edge fundraising tools and strategies for their upcoming auction and event.” – Johnna Wells

Over the past five years since the launch of her business, the Benefit Auctions 360 calendar began to fill up and Johnna seized the opportunity to carry out her original vision. Growing the business was a decision that she has navigated carefully and over time, but has since selected a handful of highly reputable Auctioneers and Consultants whose personalities and experiences match the Benefit Auctions 360 philosophy.

In addition to our founder and Principal Fundraising Auctioneer, Johnna Wells, Benefit Auctions 360 has grown to take on three additional Associate Auctioneers: Michelle LeBlanc Leckert, Erin Doherty Ward, and Randy Wells. We have also enlisted two Auction Consultants: Keely Edmonson Montgomery and Judith Rizzio. (Bios are available on our website at www.benefitauctions360.com under Company Profile).

Subsequent to the expansion of our company, Benefit Auctions 360 updated our website in late 2009 to reflect the changes. We have also recently added this blog to the site as a tool to provide our clients with helpful resources and information, such as listings of venues, event recaps, tips on auction planning, vendor profiles, and more!

We have our clients to thank for the success that Benefit Auctions 360 has seen over the past several years and the blog is one way in which we can share our appreciation for their business and to highlight some of the incredible work that they do. While it has been exhilarating to watch our company grow, it is has been equally as inspiring to witness how the many organizations we get to partner with in our work have flourished.

All of this growth could not have come at a more perfect time! While working on expanding her company over the past few years, Johnna has also been working on expanding her family at home. She and her long-time partner, Scott Conger, Executive Director of RideOn and Program Supervisor at Janus Youth Programs, are proud to announce that they are expecting a baby in October of this year! Johnna plans to work through late September and will be back to fast-talking again in November, followed by some down time during the Winter holiday season with her new family before auction season picks up again in the Spring.

Filed under: BA360: News by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

Did you know that the third Saturday in April has been declared National Auctioneers Day? Well it’s true! In the spirit of celebration for one of America’s oldest professions, we thought it would be fun to share a few facts about the industry:

• The Live Auction industry contributes approximately a quarter-trillion dollars in sales to the US economy each year.
• Professional Auctioneers conduct auctions every day in communities throughout the nation.
• 97% of attendees feel that auctions are fun!

To read more studies and information surrounding the benefit auction industry specifically, visit the “press” page on our website for access to several interesting articles.

Filed under: BA360: News by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

{seth aaron henderson and smokey the llama}

On Friday, April 9th, our lovely Miss Wells modeled and auctioned for the Boutiques Unleashed event to raise money for DoveLewis‘ Pet Loss Support Program – a cause so many of us pet owners can empathize with.

In short, the organization pairs several of Portland’s media personalities with a pet and a boutique and puts together a unique fashion show experience. Both human and animal strut their stuff on the catwalk, turned llamawalk, turned bunnywalk, turned dogwalk…you get the idea.  One of the many special guests who designed high fashion apparel for the event to fit a llama and a bunny, was Portland’s own Seth Aaron Henderson from Project Runway (pictured above).

{Johnna Wells and her dog Oliver on the runway}

We would like for you to meet the BA360 mascot, Oliver, who is pictured above showing off his tricks!  Oliver comes into the office with Johnna on most days of the week and serves as our constant reminder to take it easy. He and Johnna have enjoyed being a part of the Boutiques Unleashed show for the past few years.

{Hair and Makeup - Backstage at Boutiques Unleashed}

A favorite moment of mine from the event was heading backstage to watch both the pets and humans being groomed in the “Hair and Makeup” area. Above you can see that Sir Sean Connery (yes, that is the dog’s real name), the white, fluffy, poodle is being primed and primped for the runway.

{patrons peruse the silent auction table}

In addition to the Live and Silent Auction, we often suggest that clients include other opportunities of giving throughout the event. Raffles can be appealing (DoveLewis raffled off a gorgeous 14k white-gold ring with a 2k genuine blue topaz, surrounded by brilliant 1/3k round diamonds – valued at $5,000), or a Wine Wall (shown below). You can see by the empty racks that the Wine Wall is a popular addition to their event).

{the wine wall}

Congratulations to DoveLewis for a successful, sold-out show! For more coverage of the show, visit PDX Neat Sheet!

{these twin girls were just too cute on the runway}

{Physical Element's owner Jo Carter know how to strike a pose}

{This young man is a natural}

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

{Erin Doherty Ward works the crowd}

This post is long overdue, but Benefit Auctions 360 would like to introduce our associate Auctioneer, Erin Doherty Ward, and welcome her to our team! Erin is a highly trained Benefit Auction Specialist and Third Generation Auctioneer out of Long Island, New York.

We recently received two videos, that cover some exciting projects that both Erin Doherty Ward and her mother Jill Doherty have been involved in:

Video #1) This video, created in 2009 by artist Doug Aitken called “The Handle Comes Up The Hammer Comes Down,” shares an incredibly unique and thrilling performance by several auctioneers, including our lovely Erin Doherty Ward and her mother Jill Doherty at the Basel Opera in Switzerland.

the handle comes up the hammer comes down

Video #2) This second video link, directed by Jesse Reding Fleming during an event at the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), New York on February 2, 2007. Doug Aitken and PopRally produced the event, which included a reception, musical performances by Cat Power, and street performers Ryan Donowho and Dishan Bharoocha, storytelling by Melissa Plout and other surprise guests. The female auctioneer you see in this video is Jill Doherty.

Happening

Filed under: BA360: Auctioneer Profile by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

I’ve said it before and I will say it again: We feel so incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to work with such inspired and extraordinary organizations. Tonight, we attended the Artists Reception, a prelude to Cascade AIDS Project’s 21st Annual Art Evening and Auction. The reception was held in the Gerding Theater lobby at the Armory, which is another beautiful event space we will be adding to our PDX Venue blog post.

{Portland Center Stage reception space}

There are going to be so many exquisite works of art to bid on in both the Live and Silent Auction. To view the online catalog for the event, click here.

{Attendees mingled and viewed the artwork}

For every event that Benefit Auctions 360 partners in, we enjoy being able to take the time to familiarize ourselves with the auction packages and items.

{Getting to know the painting submitted by Melinda Thorsnes}

Our Principal Auctioneer, Johnna Wells made sure to get an up-close look at all of the Live Auction artwork. I look forward to reporting back to you with an Auction Recap on the upcoming auction for Cascade AIDS Project. Not only will we be surrounded by incredible artwork (thanks to the hard work of talented Curator, Roger Hull, and the many artists who contributed), but Cirque du Soleil will also be performing that evening!

Filed under: BA360: Client Profile by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

Venue selection is an important decision to make when planning your fundraising event. You will want to find a space that is suitable for your group’s collective personality and size (remember the 3 W’s in our Auction Planning post). There are so many things to take into consideration when selecting where you will hold your auction. Do you want a blank canvas to build into something that is all-together your own, which can require bringing in your own rentals? Or do you prefer to have an all-in-one facility for your event (the all-inclusive resort of event venues)? There is no right or wrong decision overall; it truly has to do with the needs and goals of your organization.

Below is a list (that we will continue to add to as we hear back from venues in town) listed in alphabetical order with some of the basic information we feel may be of assistance to you as you plan your event:

Castaway

1900 NW 18th Avenue | Portland, Oregon

PARKING:  Yes — discuss details with venue

CATERING: Preferred List

CAPACITY: 400 guests

ACCESSIBLE: Yes

{photo from castaway website}

Departure

525 SW Morrison Street | Portland, Oregon 97204

(503) 802-5370

PARKING: paid structure and street parking/valet available for $10 per car

CATERING: in-house

CAPACITY: Dining Room: 200 standing reception/140 banquet | East Deck & State Room: 125 standing reception | West Deck: 150 standing reception

ADA ACCESSIBLE: yes

{image from departure website}

{image pulled from departure website}

Doubletree Hotel Portland

1000 NE Multnomah | Portland, Oregon 97232

PARKING: On-Site

CATERING: in-house

SIZE: Over 45,000 square feet of meeting & event space

CAPACITY: (contact venue)

ADA ACCESSIBLE: yes

{Image from doubletree website}

Ecotrust

721 NW Ninth Avenue | Portland, Oregon 97209

(503) 467-0792

PARKING:  some parking on-site and off-street parking

CATERING: preferred list

SIZE:  contact venue for specifics

ADA ACCESSIBLE: yes

{photo from ecotrust website}

The Gerding Theater at the Armory

128 NW Eleventh Avenue | Portland, Oregon 97209

(503) 445-3824

PARKING: street parking and nearby structures

CATERING: exclusive catering list

SIZE: see rental info sheet HERE

CAPACITY: see rental info sheet HERE

ADA ACCESSIBLE: yes

{photo provided by the Gerding Theater}

view from above {photo provided by the Gerding Theater}

The Governor Hotel

614 SW 11th Avenue | Portland, Oregon 97205

(503) 241- 2125

PARKING: street parking and nearby parking structures

CATERING: jakes catering

SIZE: contact venue

CAPACITY: up to 700 reception | 500 sit-down (smaller spaces also available)

ADA ACCESSIBLE: yes

{photo by holland studios}

Hilton – Downtown Portland

921 SW Sixth Avenue | Portland, Oregon 97204

503-226-1611

PARKING: Paid parking along street and in garage structure

CATERING: In-House

CAPACITY: Several options available – (up to 1070 guests with banquet-style seating)

ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

{Grand Ballroom - photo provided by the Hilton}

Kennedy School

5736 NE 33rd Avenue | Portland, Oregon 97211

(503) 288-3286

PARKING: on-site lot and street parking available

CATERING: in-house catering

CAPACITY: 112 banquet/120 reception

ADA ACCESSIBLE: yes

{photo provided by kennedy school}

Left Bank Annex

101 N. Weidler, Portland, Oregon 97227

(503) 928-6437

PARKING: street parking only

CATERING: Preferred List

CAPACITY/SIZE: 14,000 square feet (3 spaces available – can be rented together or separate: The Great Room, The Club Room, The Mezzanine) Inquire with Left Bank Annex for more details.

ADA ACCESSIBLE: yes

{The Great Room at Left Bank Annex}

The Melody Ballroom

615 SE Alder | Portland, Oregon 97214

(503) 232-2759

PARKING: parking lot and street parking available

CATERING: in-house

CAPACITY: between 300 – 1100 people

ADA ACCESSIBLE:

{photo by Andie Petkus}

Montgomery Park

2701 NW Vaughn Street | Portland, Oregon 97210

(503) 228-7275

PARKING: free parking available in lot

CATERING: preferred list

CAPACITY: contact for details

ADA ACCESSIBLE: yes

{photo pulled from montgomery park website}

Nines Hotel

525 SW Morrison Sreet | Portland, Oregon 97204

(503) 222-9996

PARKING: paid parking structures

CATERING: in-house

CAPACITY: up to 540 banquet/800 standing reception (smaller spaces available also)

ADA ACCESSIBLE: yes

{image pulled from the nines website}

North Star Ballroom

635 N. Killingsworth Court | Portland, Oregon

503-240-6088

PARKING: Street parking and a lot across the street that fits about 25 cars

CATERING: Any vendor

CAPACITY: For Auctions with a banquet dinner component and silent auction, guest capacity is 150

ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

{North Star Ballroom Exterior - photo from N.Star website}

{North Star Ballroom Interior Set Up - photo from N.Star website}

OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science & Industry)

1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97214

(P) 503-797-4671

PARKING: free on-site parking

CATERING: in-house

CAPACITY: banquet seating 750/standing reception 2,500

ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

{photo from The Oregonian}

Oregon Convention Center

777 NE MLK Jr. Boulevard | Portland, Oregon 97232

(503) 235-7575

PARKING: underground paid parking available

CATERING: Aramark catering services

CAPACITY: between 250 to 3500 depending on your needs

ADA ACCESSIBLE:  yes

{photo from "the portland times" news blog}

Oregon Historical Society

1200 SW Park Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97205

(P): 503-306-5281 / Rachel Snow

PARKING: Paid street parking

CATERING: Preferred Catering List

The Plaza (outdoor)

SIZE: 2,500 sq. ft. Outdoor Space (tenting may be required)

CAPACITY: banquet seating 160/standing reception 250

Miller Pavillion (pictured above)

CAPACITY: banquet seating 140/standing reception 250

(photo courtesy of Oregon Historical Society)

(looking into the Miller Pavilion)

Oregon Zoo

4001 SW Canyon Road | Portland, Oregon 97221

503-220-2789

PARKING: Yes

CAPACITY: If you are putting together an auction for your fundraising event, you can utilize the Cascade Crest Banquet Center – with your silent auction in the Skyline Room, then moving into the Vista Room for your seated dinner and auction with 250 guests seated banquet-style. Other venues are available. Please contact Zoo Catering staff for details.

CATERING: In-House – Oregon Zoo Catering

ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Portland Art Museum

1219 SW Park Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97205

PARKING: Paid street parking and nearby parking structure

CATERING:  Vibrant Table Catering & Events

ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Kridel Grand Ballroom

CAPACITY:  banquet seating 560, standing reception 950

McDonald Grand Foyer (entry area to Kridel Grand Ballroom)

CAPACITY: reception 200

Fields Ballroom

CAPACITY: banquet seating 220/standing reception 400

Scott Foyer (entry area to Fields Ballroom)

CAPACITY: standing reception 200

Schnitzer Sculpture Court

CAPACITY: standing reception 300

Miller Overlook Gallery

CAPACITY: standing reception 100

Evan H. Roberts Sculpture Mall

CAPACITY: banquet seating 600/standing reception 1,500

Portland Classical Chinese Garden

239 NW Everett | Portland, Oregon 97209

(503) 228-8131

PARKING: street parking

CATERING: preferred list

CAPACITY: up to 300

ADA ACCESSIBLE: yes

{photo provided from garden website}

Post 419 in the Bison Building

419 NE 10^th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97232

SIZE: 13,000 sq. ft. – clean canvas event space

CAPACITY: banquet seating 500/standing reception 800

PARKING: ample street parking on evenings and weekends

ADA ACCESSIBLE: yes

{photo pulled from Bison Building website}

Pure Space

1315 NW Overton | Portland, Oregon 97209

(503) 294-0412

PARKING:  Yes

CATERING: Preferred List

CAPACITY: 1,000 people in a standing cocktail reception | 400 people with banquet-style with an area for your Silent Auction and Reception | If little or no silent auction, then the space can accommodate up to 550 people in banquet-style seating.

ADA ACCESSIBILITY: Yes

 Staver Locomotive

2537 NW 29th Avenue | Portland, Oregon 97210

503-222-3223

info@staverlocomotive.com

Contact for all details

{photo from Staver Locomotive website}

Union Station/Wilf’s Restaurant

800 NW 6th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97209

Portland, Oregon 97209

(503) 223-0070

CAPACITY: Station Lobby – 250-1000 | Rose Garden 20-400 (contact Wilf’s for more details)

PARKING: parking lots and street parking

ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

{Union Station & WIlf's Restaurant}

Wonder Ballroom

128 NE Russell, Portland, Oregon

SIZE: 3,500 sq. ft.

CAPACITY:  225 banquet seating/700 standing

PARKING: street parking

ADA ACCESSIBLE: yes; not including the upper balcony

{photo provided by wonder ballroom}

World Trade Center Portland

121 SW Salmon Street, 2WTC, Portland, Oregon 97204

PARKING: paid on-street parking & underground paid parking $4/hr

CATERING: in-house catering

ADA ACCESSIBLE? yes

Sky Bridge Terrace

SIZE: 4,560 sq. ft.

CAPACITY: banquet rounds 120 – 250/standing reception 200

{image provided by trade center website}

Filed under: BA360: Venue Tour by Keely Edmonson
2 Comments »

{photo by keely montgomery}

Johnna Wells, Principal Auctioneer for Benefit Auctions 360 (BA360), was joined by charming and vivacious local celebrity, Poison Waters, during the 15h Annual Portland Roast Festival. The event was held yesterday evening on the Trailblazers’ court at the Rose Garden Arena and was a benefit for The Portland Schools Foundation.

The Roast consisted of its usual Hacks vs. Flacks.

The Hacks: Kate Brown (Oregon Secretary of State), Randy Leonard (City of Portland Commissioner) and Ted Wheeler (Multnomah County Chair).

The Flacks: April Baer (OPB Radio), Anna Griffin (The Oregonian), and Mark Mason & Dave Anderson (KEX 1190).

Ms. Wells has donated her professional services to conduct the Special Appeal to assist in raising funds for The Portland Schools Foundation at the Portland Roast Festival event for the past two years.

Filed under: BA360: Helping Hands by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

{photo by andie petkus}

We feel so lucky here at Benefit Auctions 360 to have the opportunity to work with incredibly committed and hard-working organizations  that are providing essential services with such great care in our community. We look forward to being able to highlight some of these organizations here on the BA360 Blog, along with sharing photos and recaps of their auctions. It is our pleasure to present to you our very first post of this kind!

In October of 2009, Benefit Auctions 360 assisted Sisters of the Road Café in celebrating 30 years of dedication to their mission: to build authentic relationships and alleviate the hunger of isolation in an atmosphere of nonviolence and gentle personalism that nurtures the whole individual, while seeking systemic solutions that reach the roots of homelessness and poverty to end them forever.

Over 350 people attended the Hoedown themed event held at the Portland Art Museum, and more than $100,000 was raised that evening for Sisters of the Road.

{photo by andie petkus}

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the work of Sisters of the Road, we encourage you to take a few moments to explore their website HERE.

{photo by keely montgomery}

The 2009 event marked two other pivotal celebrations:  1) honoring the achievements of retiring founder, Genny Nelson, and 2) celebrating the organizations 30th birthday!

{photo by keely montgomery}

Golden Raffle Ticket Selection.

{photo by keely montgomery}

"Uncle Earl" performing. {photo by keely montgomery}

Congratulations to Sisters of the Road Cafe on a successful event and auction! Benefit Auctions 360 looks forward to being a part of it again in 2010.

Filed under: BA360: Auction Recap, BA360: Client Profile by Keely Edmonson
No Comments »

(Photo by Andie Petkus)

Last Thursday, Benefit Auctions 360 was a sponsor for the “Get Ready for Your Spring Auction” seminar held at the Melody Ballroom. The event was attended by nearly 100 people from various organizations seeking out suggestions and tips for successful auction planning. I really feel that the attendees walked away from the afternoon with some useful tips to implement that will help raise the bar in their upcoming auctions.

Sitting on the Panel Discussion that kicked off the afternoon’s conference was our very own Miss Johnna Wells there to give professional advice and answer questions from the point of view of auction planning via the successful Benefit Auctions 360 Fundraising Model.  Other panelists covering the gamut of auction planning included included Nick Apap from Royces Prop Shop (Decor and Design Production), Jon Bridenbaugh of Northwest Auction Support (Computer Rental), Michelle Holman of Auctionpay (Data Management), Clint Kaster of Smart Tech Audio Visual, Samantha Swaim of Samantha Swaim Fundraising LLC, and Kelly Russell of Kelly Russell Auctions, LLC.

Samantha Swaim did a fantastic job facilitating the event! {Photo by Andie Petkus}

In today’s softer economy, planning committees are starting to get even more creative on how to meet fundraising goals and here are some ways panelists suggested to get the most bang for your buck!

Decor:

• Nick Apap of Royce’s Prop Shop said that if you have to cut back in your decor budget, selecting focal points to decorate versus the entire space can still make a dramatic impact without overspending.
• Pull from decor items that are already owned or have your volunteers help create centerpieces. This can help to represent the personality of your organization at the event.
• Samantha Swaim suggested the use of LED uplighting in the event space to add that extra punch for very little money. These lights can be rented with a variety of gel colors to choose from to match your event style and theme.

Audio/Visual:

• Clint Kaster of Smart Tech AV suggested to utilize the architecture of the room to your advantage. He had a recent client who was able to use one of the wall spaces as a focal point for the PowerPoint projection. This wall space was visually interesting, provided a great foundation for the PowerPoint projection, and offset the cost of renting a projection screen, which can get expensive.
• Some schools are able to utilize student volunteers from their theater tech department to help with the event’s A/V staff to cut some labor costs. As audio/visual needs are one of the most important inclusions in your fundraising auction, it is important to discuss this option in further detail with your audio/visual provider.
• As the audio/visual at an auction can make or break the event, it was highly recommended by Miss Wells to not cut professional sound services out of your budget.  Miss Wells stated that “while you may save several hundred dollars by not hiring a professional sound company, you will literally loose several thousand dollars, or in some instances tens of thousands of dollars if you opt to not hire a professional audio company to outfit your venue of choice with professional audio equipment”. If your organization does not currently use professional A/V services,  strongly consider adding this to create a more successful fundraising auction and event.

Auctioneer Johnna Wells, explaining the three W's {photo by Andie Petkus}

The next question to the panel was “What are the hot ticket items that are going for the most money in auctions today?”:

After some discussion, it seemed as though the hot ticket items this year are trip packages (both local and far away), alcohol (instant wine cellars, starter bars, etc.), and any truly unique or universal packages that are a specific match to your audience. Because every organization has its own unique personality, Johnna Wells suggested that the organization first consider the “3 W’s: the Who, What and Why” of the event to create their own hot ticket items. Benefit Auctions 360′s 3 W’s are loosely outlined below:

1. Who - Who are your donors and supporters? Considering the diversity amongst the organizations supporters, anticipated auction and event guests can help an organization cater to procuring packages that will be highly sought after for that particular attendance base! If your particular organization and donor base appeals to a certain niche of interests, then building packages around these particular areas of interest will create universally appealing packages. In the context of any fundraising auction, a universally appealing package will achieve greater bidding power  and fundraising results than a more subjective package.
2. What – What types of packages would be appealing to your organizations supporters and your anticipated target audience? Knowing what makes your supporters “tick” and what types of packages are particularly appealing to your anticipated guests is one of the quickest ways to ensure that your fundraising goals can be attained. As most auction committees consist of fellow organization supporters, brainstorm with your auction committee on the types of packages that they themselves would be interested in seeing at their auction if “money was no object”. This type of brainstorming will give you and your committee a great foundation to build upon when further exploring “what” types of packages would be most appealing to your anticipated auction and event guests
3. Why – Why do guests support your cause and how can you implement this cause for support into some of your Live Auction packages? This area of brainstorming can be particularly helpful to an organization when exploring potential packages for the Live Auction. One Benefit Auctions 360 client, the Cat Adoption Team, has done an incredible job at exploring the “Why” portion of the 3 W’s in preparation for their auction and event, and have worked to create several Live Auction packages based upon the auction and event attendees connection with the Cat Adoption Team. They have created a “Cat Calendar” package for their Live Auction, which allows for a winning bidder to have their favorite cat professionally photographed during a one-of-a-kind photo shoot and then calendars are created by a designer featuring the winning bidder’s favorite photos from the shoot. Their “Cat Calendar” embodies the reason why people are attending the Cat Adoption Team’s auction and event – because they love the organization’s mission and message, they love cats, and this package prrrrrfectly blends those elements together.

The Who, What, and Why, when considered, will truly help your organization come up with package ideas that will raise the most money at your auction. Wells also used an example of her client, the Bicycle Transportation Alliance. When considering their audience, it was obvious to them that because their supporters had such an interest in cycling, that the packages based around that theme would be most successful, such as Cycling Tours of Europe, or, closer to home, cycling tours through Oregon wine country! If you have not yet considered your Who, What, and Why, then start thinking about these effective areas when planning your next auction and event.

Round Table Discussions with Johnna Wells {photo by Andie Petkus}

Be Creative in Your Fundraising: If your organization is lucky enough to procure a high value ticket item but are unsure your bidder base at the event will be able to accommodate the fundraising results you seek for that particular item, then you can actually add an online element to the Live Auction to help make sure your item(s) can reach a bidding base with spending capabilities that are parallel to your target goal for the item. Another suggestion for groups that have had a package in their event for several years and have seen its popularity go down in your audience, consider doing an “Auction Swap” with a package from another organization. Marketed to a new audience, one or the other package might be a hit!

————————————

We thank you for checking in today! So as not to bog you down with too much information in one post, we are going to focus on auction planning software in a separate post since there is so much to cover! See you back here at the BA360 Blog again soon.

Filed under: BA360: Auction Tips by Keely Edmonson
2 Comments »

{photos by keely montgomery}

Filed under: BA360: News by admin
No Comments »