| Copyright (c) 2009 Red Apple Auctions LLC | | | | Imagine the scene. The music is jamming, guests are |
| During the course of my consultations with clients, we | | | | dining on good food and strong drinks, and everyone is |
| often discuss offering a cash appeal at some point | | | | chatting. In the middle of this party, someone |
| during the evening. If the organization is new to the | | | | announces there will be a money dance. Stan and |
| concept, I explain the idea to them, which is - in short - | | | | Jenelle, two happy guests, yell and clap with the |
| an opportunity for guests to make a cash donation | | | | crowd: "Woo hoo!" |
| directly to the organization. | | | | Joe is excited! He's happy for the couple! He jumps |
| One of the first questions I am asked is, "Don't you | | | | from his chair to grab the bride for a dance. |
| think that we'll make less money in the silent and live | | | | Which scenario happens next? |
| auction if we also conduct an appeal?" | | | | 1. Joe whisks the bride around the floor to a fast polka |
| No, I don't. | | | | while slipping her a $20 bill. |
| Here's a wedding-based analogy to explain my point. | | | | OR |
| I've attended a few weddings during which the bride | | | | 2. Joe stops abruptly at the edge of the dance floor. |
| and groom have a money dance. For a song or two, a | | | | "WHOA. Hold on a moment," he thinks, "We gave this |
| guest can dance with either the bride or groom for a | | | | couple a present. My wife bought them a blender and I |
| fee. Depending on the crowd, the guests might pay $5 | | | | wrapped it this morning. Those greedy, ungrateful kids. |
| to $100 for the privilege of busting a move with one of | | | | We already gave them a gift, and they have the |
| the newly-married individuals. | | | | nerve to ask for more." Joe skulks back to his chair. |
| Given that each of those guests has already given a | | | | I've never seen the second scenario happen. Have |
| wedding gift to the couple, anyone who contributes | | | | you? It seems the decision to make a cash gift |
| during the money dance is "gifting twice." Do they | | | | donation occupies a different place in our psyche than |
| care? | | | | the decision to bid in a live or silent auction. |
| I don't think they do. I don't believe it affects the actions | | | | When properly introduced and explained to auction |
| of any guests. Those that want to dance will dance, | | | | guests, an appeal will build upon your total auction |
| regardless of whether they already gave a gift to the | | | | revenue. |
| couple. | | | | |