We've done ours for 8 years now. We set ours up with our Spring Carnival - so it's more of a family fun event. The kids play and the parents bid.
1. Send home the info and have a clear purpose for why you need to have the auction. Be sure to include a donation section.
2. Contact local businesses and restuarnts. Look up the website of your state professional and college teams and performaning arts centers and apply for tickets.
3. Contact WalMart and other stores at the beginning of the month - they generally try to get through their allotment of funds early in the month (that has been our experience.)
4. Get the teachers involved with various baskets and such. One of our teachers makes a one of a kind book with the students. Some schools around here have ceramic items made that features students finger prints, etc. Unique, personal items.
We send out flyers at the begining of the school year and our event is held in the spring. We start out by letting people know about the event and also noting that we are accepting donations.
We will be having our first silent auction next school year. How do you advertise for it? How far in advance? Since we'll have to explain the process, are flyers sent home the best thing to do? TIA