4 Years Later - Here I Go Again

[Ironfish]

Originally Posted by baygo

Leslie and I intend to kick it up a pretty big notch and deliver a culinary adventure that will dwarf all others from our repertoire. We're currently attempting to book a celebrity pianist. There is a limit of 27 couples.


What is the forum's opinion if I were to auction off the seats?

I think it might work, if presented in the right context. Maybe something along these lines:

"T27 will be be hosting a special event on [____] to benefit [____]. The event will include up to [___] selections from our menu, per person, and there will be complimentary [___]. Entertainment provided by [___]. [____%] of all proceeds from the evening will be donated to [___] Attendance is limited, so we will be hosting an online auction for those that wish to attend. Bidding and event details can be viewed at [www.___.com]

Now, you've created a special event (don't overdo it!), where you're inviting like minded folks to enjoy a night out as a group, and bid towards a cause for which they believe. Auctions are very common at charity events, and I don't think the "losers", in a charity scenario, are all that upset.

My only word of caution .... if it sounds like it benefits the business, more than it benefits the charity, people will sniff it out, and it won't go so well.

Be sure to make sure that the charity itself is 100% on board with your plans. If not, it will backfire, loudly.