We have a mom that does the extreme couponing and she is assembling a "Cleaning Basket" for us. It will be a laundry basket filled with laundry soap, softener, Lysol, Windex, paper towels, Comet.. stuff like that. She thinks that she can do the whole basket for under $10 with her coupon magic.
The best themed baskets don't use baskets at all! Consider finding another unique vessel to hold all of your goodies. I love using ottomans because they look very impressive! I also love hat boxes, purses, urns, garden buckets, hats, large vases, chillers, wooden boxes, chests, and antique bowls. Consider using something that works with your theme. All of these items add value and increase your profits!
What did you include in your letter to area parks in order to get them to donate tickets? We have zoos, science centers, small theaters, etc. I would love to see what you sent. This is our first silent auction and I want it to be great!!