There is nothing more frustrating than attending a silent auction where items have been haphazardly displayed. Visually pleasing auction tables are a high priority! You want bidders to get excited about the auction items. Your goal is to encourage people to bid on silent auction items -- not pass them by.

How you set up your auction tables depends on the actual number of items and the amount of space you have to work with. Go out to your venue and physically pre-determine where you are going to set up the tables. Do a configuration of how you want to place the tables and make sure you allow plenty of "elbow room."

It is is wise to set up "mock" tables before the day of the fundraiser and decide how you want the auction items arranged. When arranging items remember to place a bid sheet either beside or in front of each item. Bid sheets are printed on 8 ½ x 11 sheets of paper and take up a fair chunk of space on the table.

Here are a few tips to consider when setting up auction tables:

• utilize easels for displaying pictures and incorporate stands for showcasing sculptures
• place items sporadically or sort them into specific categories
• drape fabric over tables for a more professional look
• put skirting around the tables (you can then store boxes, tools, etc. under the tables) 
• list the contents of cello-wrapped gift baskets if items are not easily recognizable
• do not display items in their original packaging (i.e. take the toaster out of the box and put a couple slices of bread in it)
• plug in lamps - they are much more appealing when lit up
• ensure items are in good shape, clean and in proper working order (i.e. batteries in the flashlight)
• tea lights, sparkles or colored glitter add to the "ambiance" of the tables

No matter how you chose to display your auction items you should have volunteers to "man" the tables. They will keep an eye on the bid sheets, ensure the bid increments are placed correctly and answer any questions bidders may have. In essence, the volunteers become the "salespeople" of the visually pleasing auction tables you have taken so much time and effort to set up!