Just about all of us love to eat and what you serve can have a definite impact on what you raise when it comes to fundraising auction events. If you are wanting to raise a substantial amount of funds then serve your donors high quality food like steak, lobster, prawns, etc. It definitely sets a subconscious message to your guests for the auction and fund a need giving. This all depends on the style of event you have of course, but I’m speaking in more of a general sense. We always recommend a plated dinner versus a buffet which you can read more about HERE. The picture to the left (from gorare.com) screams high class and high value, which is the mindset you want your bidders in when they are about to donate to your important cause.
Another piece of advice is to stay away from desserts that involve ice cream for the simple fact that ice cream can easily melt, and you never know the exact amount of time dessert may be put on hold to finish fundraising efforts.
Overall, if you are having a classy event that you are expecting large donor participation at high levels then serve them a great meal so they know you appreciate their generosity and count on them to return the generosity when they give.
Written by Mike Grigg, AARE, BAS of Elite Auctions and Fundraising Services